Vishell Duff is a dedicated and ambitious student who just earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through The University of Alabama Online. As a working mother of two young children, Duff has faced her share of challenges. Still, her passion for nursing and drive to provide a better future for her family have kept her motivated throughout her academic journey.
Originally from the Philippines and the oldest of 10 children, Duff witnessed firsthand the lack of accessible health care in her home country, which sparked her interest in nursing. “I am from a very poor family. Poverty is bad,” she said. “It’s hard to go to the hospital if you don’t have money — like no access at all.”
Duff said that often, instead of a doctor, families only have access to an herbalist. She said she finds strength in being able to pass along her medical knowledge to her family. “I can teach my siblings, so we are not continually going to this herbalist who’s never been in school.”
Duff earned her associate degree in Nursing in 2013 and wanted to further her career and leadership role by earning a bachelor’s in Nursing with UA Online. She currently works the night shift as a nurse in Foley, Alabama; she said the ability to balance her career and coursework with UA Online was key for both her work and her family.
One of the standout experiences for Duff has been the encouragement she received from her professor Dr. Jessica Johnson. “Writing is a little harder than speaking, in my opinion, because of the grammar and punctuation,” said Duff. “She gave me courage even though English is my second language.” She said the professor often helped her find resources to assist with her writing.
Duff is already looking ahead to her next challenge: securing a spot in one of the UA Capstone College of Nursing master’s programs. “This is a big pride for me and my family,” she said. “To graduate from The University of Alabama, especially in Nursing, is not easy.”
Published: December 18th, 2024