Graduating senior Yassia Gillings talks about how nursing ignited her passion and purpose

Determined, passionate, and driven are just a few of the words that define Yassia Gillings, a soon-to-be graduate of the University of South Carolina Aiken’s Nursing Program.

On December 12, she’ll join 259 other graduates in celebrating her achievement at USCA’s Convocation Center.

With a decade of active-duty service as a medic and over 11 years of experience as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in the federal workforce, Gillings knew that advancing her education was the next step in her career. In 2021, she enrolled in USCA’s renowned Nursing Program, drawn by its impressive NCLEX-RN pass rate of 99%, far surpassing the national average.

“I’ve always been drawn to the science and creativity of nursing,” says Gillings. “I’m a lifelong learner, and that’s what inspired me to return to school.”

From Military Service to Nursing Career

“My military journey began right after high school, and for my parents, it was non-negotiable that I serve,” she explains. While she initially dreamed of becoming a teacher, it was her military experience, particularly in teaching nursing-related subjects that inspired her to pursue a degree in nursing.

During her time in the program, Gillings served as a tutor for her peers in Community Health and Pediatric Nursing courses, helping others while deepening her understanding. “When the tutoring opportunity arose, I jumped at it. Teaching is my passion,” she says. “In doing so, I’ve realized that I learn just as much from the students as they do from me. It’s about more than just academic knowledge it’s about life skills they’ll carry with them.”

Gillings often draws on her own life experiences to help students connect with the material. “I tell my students that they can use their own stories to motivate and encourage others. It’s about making learning personal and meaningful,” she says.

Her love for teaching also shone through during her clinical rotations as a nursing student aide at Mossy Creek Elementary in North Augusta. “At the end of one day, a few students came up to me before the bus arrived and said, ‘Thank you for giving me my medicine.’ That simple appreciation was priceless it truly made my experience rewarding,” Gillings reflects.

Nursing: More Than a Career, a Calling

For Gillings, nursing isn’t just a job it’s a career with purpose. “I don’t want a life that feels empty. That experience at Mossy Creek filled my cup,” she shares.

Her advice for anyone considering nursing is simple but powerful: don’t shy away from the challenges. “This program is tough not necessarily because of the content, but because it challenges you personally. It helps you discover inner strengths you didn’t know you had,” Gillings explains. “The nursing program at USCA is what you make of it. There’s support when you ask for it, and it’s available 24/7.”

Her key advice for incoming students: time management is crucial. “Balancing your studies and life can be difficult, but if you manage your time wisely, you’ll succeed.”

A Bright Future Ahead

Gillings’ hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. In Spring 2024, she was inducted into USCA’s Veteran & Military Student Success Honor Society and was named on the Dean’s and President’s lists while attending Georgia Military College.

When she’s not studying, Gillings enjoys spending quality time with her family especially her daughter, who serves in the military.

Looking ahead, she has big plans. “After walking across the stage in December, I’ll continue working at the VA through their internship program, then I’ll study for the NCLEX-RN exam. My goal is to become a full-time nurse,” she says.

Gillings' journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and a commitment to lifelong learning. For her, nursing isn’t just a profession it’s a calling that she’s ready to embrace with open arms.

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.