Leah Neergaard

Nursing | Graduated May 2024

Employer: San Juan Regional Medical Center

Job Title: Registered Nurse

Why did you choose San Juan College?

I chose to go to San Juan College because of the tight-knit community they have created for students of all ages in the Four Corners area. Professors, instructors, and staff are dedicated to their students' success, and making campus life memorable and enjoyable.

What did you do to prepare for your career?

Over five semesters in the nursing program, I completed a total of 428 clinical hours at the hospital, several long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, surgery centers, and even schools to learn to care for individuals with a wide variety of health conditions and needs in our community. After my third semester, I had the opportunity to apply for a nurse tech position at the hospital, which is reserved for nursing students, to build my skills and become familiar with the unit where I would eventually apply as a new graduate nurse.

What advice would you give to future graduates?

It is never too late to go back to school! When I applied to SJC, I was 28 with a husband and three children under the age of 6. You are worthy of success, and you are capable of anything you set your mind to! Don't give up. Getting a degree is not a walk in the park, but it is SO worth it!

What was your fondest memory at San Juan College?

I am a returning student and attended SJC for a total of 6 years. I got my GED here, met my husband in my first-ever college course, then we watched our youngest son graduate from Pre-K at the CFDC. I have countless amazing memories; filming the SJC security video back in 2011, dancing around in front of a green screen in a chicken costume, helping to decorate the TRIO center for Halloween, having countless study sessions in what we called the "fish bowl" in the west classroom complex, experimenting and dissecting in my microbiology and A&P labs, making treat bags with Active Minds Club for the Halloween carnival, grabbing coffee at Cafe Belay after exams, hosting nursing school info sessions with SNA - and that is just to name a few. My time at San Juan College has been incredibly memorable and I will forever be thankful for all of the amazing people who have supported me over the years.