From Piano to Patient Care: One Student’s Musical Journey to Nursing
A dual background in education and classical music shapes this student’s nursing pathway.
Edward Mandolang’s path to a career in nursing has unfolded a bit like a symphony—it started off slowly and gently before building towards a crescendo that led him to the School of Nursing’s pre-licensure program. And with Mandolang poised to graduate later this year, he is still composing the score.
Originally from Loma Linda, California, Mandolang has always had a passion for mental health and holistic care. His career began as an English and math third-grade teacher in New York City, where he witnessed the effects of health inequities on families. “I became especially attuned to the emotional and psychological challenges they faced,” he recalls. This experience solidified his desire to support both children and their caregivers through a mental health lens.
When Mandolang looked to transition to a career in nursing, he wanted a school that approached healthcare from the same lens of addressing health inequities. “I chose Duke for two reasons,” he says. “First, the pre-licensure curriculum is designed to develop not only skilled nurses, but also leaders and innovators in the field who focus on systemic healthcare inequity. Second, the school is home to exceptional faculty members who offer unwavering support and mentorship. This program would not be as remarkable as it is without the faculty who give it life.”
Mandolang notes that his experience at Duke has been one of “profound growth.”
“The program challenges me in ways to think differently, work hard, and stay grounded in my purpose.” He points to his classmates as another source of inspiration, saying, “I have also met incredible peers who provide immeasurable value to the program through their diversity, excellence, and dedication to serving.”
In his nursing vocation, Mandolang also draws on lessons from his background as a classically trained pianist. He has been playing piano since he was eight and has taught piano and worked as a choir accompanist over the years.
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from practicing the piano is that both music and nursing are crafts that require dedication, attention, and care,” Mandolang explains. “A musician hones their skills over time, and a nurse develops their practice through continuous learning and experience. Whether it’s playing a piece of music or delivering patient care, each requires a unique approach while adhering to high standards.”
With plans to pursue employment with an inpatient psychiatric unit here in the Triangle and eventually pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Psychiatric Mental Health concentration, Mandolang continues composing his unique nursing symphony. “The School has prepared me to advance health equity by fostering my leadership skills and providing me with the tools and knowledge to enact change.”
Duke University School of Nursing has introduced a new pre-licensure nursing program: the Master’s Entry to the Practice of Nursing program (MEPN), which awards a Master of Nursing (MN) degree. Our direct-entry nursing program prepares you for a thriving nursing career and is designed for individuals who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. Our MEPN program builds upon your previous academic and professional experiences while preparing you to transition into the nursing profession. Upon earning your Master of Nursing degree, you will be eligible to take the RN licensing exam (NCLEX-RN©) and begin your nursing practice.