Starting a New Career in a New Country – Faith Mutsambiri

Graduating Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Nursing, Faith is ready to enter the workforce and plans on enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program in Nursing next fall. Originally a journalist, Faith relocated to Philadelphia from Zimbabwe. The importance of her career choice was influenced by a tragedy in her life—both of her parents passing away from cancer. The range of clinical rotations she completed as a student helped her realize an office environment is a preferred career area.

“My community rotation with a school nurse in an elementary school—it was so amazing. I also liked the balance between the fast pace I found at Temple and the slower pace at my general rotation. With patients, there may be a language barrier, they may be nonverbal—learning about that made me a better nurse,” she said.

Getting involved outside of the classroom, Faith was the managing editor of The Vanguard student newspaper and a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, International Students Club, and the Black Alliance Students Club. She found a supporting and helpful community as she was adjusting to a new program and the United States.

“I was fortunate enough to get a Work-Study position in the Student Engagement office. I met a lot of people, made new friends and learned about a lot of things that are offered at CCP—it became my second home. My professors are also always ready to help. No matter what, they will help you,” she said.

Last semester, Faith was awarded the First Presbyterian Church scholarship, and she was invited to attend a gathering at the church.

“It was one of the best experiences. There were workshops before the service, and other scholarship winners were there. I found about other community organizations,” she said.

Since this is not her first degree, Faith urges others to not wait if they seek a change.

‘It’s never too late to start something. The right time is now. Once you start classes at CCP, see an academic advisor. Tell them your plan, and they’ll help you map out your classes—the earlier the better,” she said.

Faith believes others will find what she discovered at CCP.

“I feel like CCP is multicultural and so accommodating. The people at CCP have patience. It was easy to adjust,” she said.