In this edition of Q&A with an Alumnus, we interviewed Christine Fulgencio, MSN '99. Fulgencio credits Duke University School of Nursing (DUSON) for helping her to build on her foundation in nursing, leadership and as an educator in her nursing career.

Read on to learn how Duke became an impactful experience for Fulgencio and what advice she gives to new graduates.

Q: How do you feel Duke prepared you for a career in nursing?

A: Getting accepted to DUSON was an incredible experience. The most impactful experience from Duke was the positive interaction with the faculty, staff and the student body. The graduate program helped me to build on my foundation in nursing, leadership and as an educator in my nursing career. DUSON also gave me the tools for critical thinking and managing my population holistically.

Q: How do you stay connected to Duke and Duke School of Nursing?

A: After graduating from DUSON in 1999 with my master of science in nursing, I kept in contact with some of my classmates. However, over the years I lost touch because “life happens." Duke and DUSON have stayed in touch through mailings, emails and social media. In the Spring of 2013 I attended my first Duke event through Duke D.C. Women’s Neighborhood Coffee. The atmosphere was small and intimate and the perfect venue for my first event not knowing anyone. Then, the same year I attended the first Duke Nursing Ambassador Event hosted by Marianne Williams, BSN’81 and Connie Kendall, BSN’94 with Dean Catherine Gilliss, BSN' 71. Since then I've attended several events hosted by Duke and DUSON.

During the Welcome Reception for Dean Marion E.Broome in 2015, I met Diana Staples, senior director of development and inquired how I could become more involved with DUSON to connect with other DUSON alumni in the Washington, D.C. area. Diana introduced me to Janene Schneider, director of alumni affairs and now I'm a representative for nursing on the Duke D.C. Board and on the DUSON Nursing Alumni Council (NAC). Since my involvement in 2013, I have made new connections associated with Duke and DUSON and it has been an enriching experience.

Q: What is a piece of advice that you have for new alumni just graduating from Duke?

A: My advice to new alumni from Duke is that it is natural to feel uncomfortable in a new situation whether you are starting or advancing your nursing career. Remember to believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who will support you. Our profession involves managing complex issues across the nursing spectrum. There will be times you will be faced with difficult situations but the rewards outweigh the challenges. As nurses, we are healers, leaders and innovators. My years in nursing have taught me the lessons of humility, compassion and community. Be proud of your accomplishments and graduating from DUSON, an excellent nursing institution that has consistently ranked as one of the best nursing programs in the nation. Lastly, I want to say good luck in your new venture and inspire and be inspired.