Student Spotlight Q&A:
With Alek Haliliyan
I was born and raised in Kuwait City, Kuwait, and moved to the U.S. when I was 12 years old.
My parents have been married for 23 years and have worked really hard to provide my brother and I a comfortable life. My younger brother Avo is my only sibling, and he is my pride and joy. I am forever grateful to have an amazing family.
Growing up Christian in a Muslim country was a huge factor in shaping my values. Both religions taught me how to be respectful; especially towards my elders; it helped shape my cultural values and I also learned right from wrong. My family in Kuwait also played a huge part because they taught me how to be caring and empathetic through difficult situations. I have learned that dark times are temporary and there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
I applied to AUHS in Spring of 2023 after I didn’t make it into an ADN program. I knew AUHS was the right school for me because when God closes one door, he will open another. My motivation to join AUHS was its Christian values and its accelerated BSN program. My amazing advisor at the time, Miss Jessica Ayala, was really encouraging and helped guide me through the enrollment process which is another reason I chose AUHS.
I love spending time with my family and going shopping. Nursing school is tough and time-consuming so [when there is] any chance I get to spend quality time with my loved ones, I am happy. I also try to volunteer for AUHS charity events.
I plan to graduate nursing school, become a registered nurse, and help my parents retire early because they have sacrificed everything for me to get where I am. I owe all of my success to my parents and to God. My dream job is to become a pediatric nurse, but I am also considering aesthetic nursing. However, I will be happy as a nurse as long as I get to help people.
Thank you 🙂