Ben Chukwu

Current Position: RN at Nazareth Hospital on a Telemetry Unit

Story Posted: Summer 2025

My favorite part about GMercyU is the sense of community and support. The faculty genuinely care about student success, and there’s always someone willing to help or offer guidance. It feels like more than just a school, it’s a place where you’re encouraged to grow both academically and personally.

A family friend, who attended GMercyU’s nursing program, first introduced the University to Ben Chukwu. After conducting some personal research, Ben was drawn to GMercyU’s academic programs and supportive community.

“What truly stood out to me and ultimately became the selling point was GMercyU’s strong reputation for excellence in nursing education, combined with its supportive and close-knit learning environment. Knowing I’d be part of a program that thoroughly prepares students for real-world healthcare made my decision an easy one,” shared Ben.

Ben described his first campus visit as a “memorable experience.” From simply walking around, Ben could feel a strong sense of community, saying “the environment felt welcoming and peaceful, and I immediately noticed how friendly and approachable everyone was, from staff to students.”

Touring the nursing facilities solidified Ben’s decision in choosing GMercyU, making him more confident that it was the right place for him.

Experience in Nursing

Ben described his experience in the nursing program as “both challenging and rewarding,” noting that the curriculum was rigorous, but provided him with a solid foundation in nursing theory and clinical practice. The hands-on learning experience he received, coupled with academic rigor, prepared Ben well for the demands of healthcare.

“I chose nursing because I’ve always had a deep desire to care for others and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. After experiencing personal loss and challenges within my own family, I saw firsthand how compassionate and skilled nurses can bring comfort during the most difficult times,” shared Ben. “That experience inspired me to pursue a career where I could provide not just medical care, but also emotional support and advocacy for patients and their families. Nursing is more than a profession to me, it’s a calling.”

One professor that stood out to Ben was Dr. Maria Warnick who taught his Pharmacology and Pathophysiology courses. He shared that her teaching style helped to make complex concepts easier to understand and that she always made time to answer questions and offer guidance.

Another course that had a significant impact on Ben’s educational journey was Med Surge, which he described as “challenging and inspiring,” helping to give him the confidence to apply what he was learning to real-life scenarios.

“Overall, my experience in the program was transformative, and I felt well-equipped to begin my career as a nurse,” Ben shared.

Clinical Experience

Ben to completed his clinical rotations several area hospitals, including Jefferson Einstein Montgomery Hospital; St. Mary Medical Center; The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia; Holy Redeemer Hospital; North Penn School District; Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care; Artman Lutheran Home; and Lower Bucks Hospital. At these locations, Ben worked in multiple departments, including Med-Surg, Pediatrics, ICU, Skilled Nursing Home, Mental Health, School Nursing, and Maternity.

“My clinical experience was one of the most rewarding aspects of my nursing education,” Ben said. “Each rotation offered a unique experience and allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained in the classroom to real-life patient care.”

Some of his primary responsibilities during clinicals included assessing patients, administering medications, assisting with treatments, and providing patient education. He also worked closely with a team of healthcare professionals, which helped him understand the importance of collaboration in providing high-quality patient care.

“My biggest takeaway from my clinical experience was learning how to prioritize patient needs and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment. I also developed a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological aspects of patient care, which reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate and holistic care to those I serve,” shared Ben.

Campus Involvement

During his junior and senior years, Ben served as a student representative in the nursing program. As a student representative, Ben advocated for his peers, participated in academic discussions, and served as a liaison between students and faculty.

“This role strengthened my leadership and communication skills while giving me a voice in shaping the student experience,” Ben said.

Ben is also a proud member of Sigma Theta Tau, the International Honor Society of Nursing, which recognizes academic excellence and leadership within the field of nursing. Being a part of this organization has deepened Ben’s commitment to professional growth and evidence-based practice.

In addition, Ben was inducted into Alpha Lambda Delta, an honor society that celebrates the academic achievements of adult learners. He shared that, “this recognition was especially meaningful to me, as it represented the hard work and perseverance I brought to my educational journey.”

“These experiences have not only shaped me into a more confident leader, but also allowed me to connect with a diverse and driven community of future healthcare professionals,” Ben shared.

Ben was an active member of the nursing program, helping to educate his classmates in areas he felt he gained a strong understanding. He enjoyed being able to support his peers through organizing study sessions, leading discussions, or offering tutoring in complex topics.

“It was fulfilling to contribute to the growth of the community within the nursing program and to help others succeed,” said Ben.

Life After GMercyU

Since graduating from GMercyU in May 2024, Ben has been working at Nazareth Hospital in the Telemetry Unit, where he’s gained invaluable experience in patient care, particularly in monitoring and managing patients with cardiac conditions.

“It’s been an amazing learning environment, and I’ve been able to build on the skills I developed during my time in the nursing program,” said Ben.

Looking toward to the future, Ben plans to continue his education and pursue a career as a Nurse Practitioner. He is most excited about expanding his knowledge and clinical skills so he can provide even more comprehensive care to his patients and take on greater responsibilities in healthcare.