Jacob Sucgang '16 always knew he wanted to be a nurse and even had his path cut out for himself while still in high school. As he was approaching graduation, he attended Mohawk College’s Pre-Health Sciences program. From there he enrolled in the Practical Nursing program. With a need for nurses higher than ever, he knew he had to answer the call.
“I chose to pursue nursing through Mohawk College because of the good things I have heard about the program from friends and family,” he says.
Mohawk’s two-year, provincially accredited Practical Nursing (RPN) diploma program allowed Jacob to build a foundation of clinical knowledge and skills necessary to give top quality care. He also acquired the accountability and responsibility required of a nurse practitioner through curriculum approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO). Because of this partnership, all graduates are eligible to apply as a Registered Practical Nurse in Ontario.
Jacob completed the RPN program at the Mohawk campus located at the Institute for Applied Health Sciences (IAHS) at McMaster University campus. Here, students experience a blend of theoretical course work and practical simulations. Jacob says, “My time during the Practical Nursing program at Mohawk College was nothing short of exceptional. The professors and staff at the IAHS building were invaluable resources that helped me grow into the person I am today.”
Another component within the Practical Nursing program is the experiential learning afforded to students through real-world clinical placements. With the plethora of experience Jacob garnered, it enabled him to feel prepared to enter the workforce as a nurse.
“I have had many learning opportunities at the multiple hospitals and care homes that I have worked with,” he says.
One place that stuck out to Jacob was Schlegel Villages. His placement at the Village of Wentworth Heights changed his career trajectory and solidified that long-term resident care was the niche for him.
“My path at Schlegel Villages has been varied and fulfilling,” he says. “The clinical placement at Wentworth Heights expanded my skillset, [and provided] connections that have helped me throughout my current career.”
When offered a placement at Schlegel Villages, Jacob did not expect the variety of roles he would experience.
“I began as a Dietary Aid during my placement and that turned into a role as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) working on the resident Medication Cart. And finally, I transitioned into my current role as RPN,” Jacob says.
When asked what was brought him the most fulfillment in resident care, Jacob’s first thought was being at the aide of others. He says, “The ability to help those at their most vulnerable is very rewarding.”
Being a nurse is a calling for many and requires astute focus, from education to practice. For those who are looking to enter the field of healthcare, Jacob has a few points of advice.
“Make sure to stay on top of all your homework, and take the initiative to always learn from any opportunity,” says Jacob. “The foundation instilled into me at Mohawk College will serve as the basis for my future endeavours. I am still learning and will always continue to learn in this chosen career of mine, as will anyone who chooses to be a nurse.”
