Looking back on this past year, it’s honestly crazy to see how much has changed, not just academically but personally too.
Nursing school has continuously challenged me, but it has also given me some of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had so far.
One of the biggest things I didn’t expect was the friendships I would build along the way. Being surrounded by people who are going through the same long days, early mornings, clinicals and exams creates a different kind of bond. Some may call it nursing school trauma bonding, but it’s been a gift for me this year. We’ve supported each other, studied together and celebrated even the small wins. Those friendships have made this journey so much more meaningful.
Clinically, I’ve grown so much confidence. At the beginning of this year, everything felt new and a little intimidating: talking to patients, performing skills and thinking critically in real time. But over time, I’ve learned to trust myself more. Each clinical experience has helped me feel more comfortable and capable, and it’s been really rewarding to see that progress.
Another thing that really stood out to me this year is how supportive and welcoming the professors have been.
They truly want us to succeed and have created an environment where it feels okay to ask questions and learn from mistakes. As the coursework became more challenging, they continued to work with us and guide us, which made a huge difference.
Even labs and simulations, things that could easily feel stressful, ended up being some of the most memorable parts of the program. From practicing head-to-toe assessments to working through patient scenarios, those hands-on experiences made learning actually fun and helped everything begin to click.
One of the most significant parts of this journey for me has been balancing school with life at home, especially with a 9-month-old baby and a very supportive husband by my side. It hasn’t always been easy but having that support system has made all the difference. This experience has shown me that nursing school is truly possible at different stages of life, and that with the right support, you can keep moving forward toward your goals.
Most importantly, this year has strengthened my faith.
I’ve learned that God’s grace will empower you to walk out His will, even when things feel overwhelming. There were moments where I didn’t feel fully prepared or confident, but leaning on my faith and God's truths gave me the strength to keep going.
Overall, this first year has pushed me in the best way possible. I’ve grown in knowledge, confidence and as a person. I’m grateful for everything I’ve learned and the people I’ve met along the way, and I’m excited for year two and to continue to grow and learn.
Danae Manibog Gatewood
Danae Manibog Gatewood is an FPU alumna having earned her BS in Exercise Physiology on an athletic scholarship. She served as a three-time team captain of the Sunbird Track and Field Team, competing nationally, earning eight All-American honors and winning a Division II title. Yet through those achievements, she realized her identity could not be defined by success alone but in Jesus Christ. Now married, she and her husband have followed God’s leading from Fresno to the Philippines and back again, where she is now pursuing nursing as a calling rooted in service and purpose. Becoming a mother to her young son has been one of her greatest blessings, deepening her faith and daily dependence on God. Today, her life is built on Christ and moving forward with joy, grounded not in what she achieves, but in who she belongs to, trusting His purpose in every season.
