August 5, 2024
A nursing candidate at St. John’s University recently received a prestigious scholarship for talented students with financial needs who are studying for a career in health care.
Giuliana Fusco, a rising junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree—through the University’s nursing program at the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences—is a recipient of the Sister Mary Grace Memorial Scholarship for Healthcare. Sponsored by the Council of Leagues of Mercy Medical Center in Rockville Centre, NY, the nursing scholarship honors the memory of Sister Mary Grace, a moderator of the Leagues of Mercy for many years who encouraged individuals to pursue service to the sick.
“Receiving the Sister Mary Grace Memorial Scholarship will profoundly impact my education and future career goals,” said Giuliana, 20, of Williston Park, NY. “Just as I was beginning college two years ago, my father lost his job and has remained unemployed. This situation placed an unexpected financial strain on my family, who always exhibited strong support for my nursing education aspirations. This financial assistance scholarship will provide crucial support, allowing me to alleviate some of the financial pressures on my family and focus more intently on my studies and clinical training.”
Francine Laterza, Ed.D., R.N., PNP, CNE, Chair and Associate Professor/Industry Professional, Department of Nursing, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at St. John’s formally recommended Giuliana for the scholarship.
“I am thrilled to see Giuliana receive this esteemed recognition. She embodies the very best of our nursing program, and I have every confidence in her future success,” Dr. Laterza said. “Giuliana is the future of nursing, and this scholarship is a testament to the incredible things that she will accomplish.”
Giuliana is a proud member of the inaugural class of 2026 of the nursing program. “I originally applied to St. John’s as a biology major, but when I discovered the University was launching a brand-new nursing program in the Fall of 2022, I was immediately intrigued,” she said. “The opportunity to be a part of the inaugural class was incredibly exciting to me.”
“St. John’s University has a well-established reputation for academic excellence, and the introduction of the new nursing program represented their commitment to advancing health-care education.”
She is also thrilled that the nursing program is housed in St. John’s new, state-of-the-art St. Vincent Health Sciences Center on the Queens, NY, campus. “I vividly remember touring the St. John’s campus for the first time and seeing the construction site for the new health sciences building,” recalled Giuliana. “Watching it grow from the ground up each day over these past two years has served as a constant reminder of the amazing investment St. John’s is making into the education of all students pursuing a degree in nursing, as well as other health-care areas.”
Giuliana envisions her career as a registered nurse who contributes to health care in various ways while remaining open to exploring different areas within the field. She has a special interest in labor and delivery, maternal health, and newborn care.
“I am drawn to this area because of its profound impact on families during such a pivotal time in their lives,” she said. “However, I am also open-minded and aware that the field of nursing is vast and continuously evolving. I am excited about the prospect of exploring other specialties and areas of nursing throughout my career. By gaining experience and learning about all different areas, I hope to find the niche that aligns best with my skills and passions.”
Giuliana also said that nursing students needing financial assistance should focus on networking while searching for scholarship opportunities. “Forming relationships with faculty, professors, and peers is incredibly beneficial. Faculty members often have insights into opportunities that may not be widely advertised,” she said. “Getting involved in activities on and off campus is also important because this can introduce you to many new people who might be able to share valuable information about scholarship opportunities. Local hospitals and health-care organizations often offer scholarships to students in the community, so make sure to explore those avenues, as well.”
Asked how she would advise someone who is considering St. John’s as the place for them to earn their undergraduate college degree, Giuliana said, “If you’re passionate about nursing and are eager to contribute to a growing program, St. John’s is the perfect place to pursue your nursing education.”
“You can find a community of people here, no matter who you are or your background,” she added. “With the numerous opportunities, clubs, and resources available, St. John’s truly offers something for everyone.”
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