Nursing graduates hurry to front lines amid crisis

Because of the pandemic, the North Carolina Board of Nursing is allowing them to work in nursing while they're waiting to be licensed.

Wake Tech's nursing program has a strong track record. Overall, 98% of its nursing graduates pass the NCLEX licensure exam on their first attempt, and 95% of graduates are employed within six months.

“It’s very exciting, but also very scary, because we don’t know what we’re getting into," new graduate Getena Compton said. "We got into nursing to make a difference, so what better way to make a difference than to join a pandemic and actually make a difference?"

It wasn't your traditional "pinning" ceremony, either.

At the drive-through ceremony Monday, students remained in their vehicles to observe social distancing rules. Graduates received a lamp and a copy of the Florence Nightingale pledge, a symbols of their commitment to the nursing profession.

“This makeshift pinning is sad, but just to graduate is the best feeling,” said new graduate Alex Wagner.

Wake Tech President Scott Ralls said he's hopeful they can honor this class with a more traditional ceremony in the future.

“We want to recognize them, even in a little way through the drive-through ceremony, and one day we’ll bring them back for a much bigger recognition, because they are a special class for us,” Ralls said.

Graduates will be ready to work as early as May 8th. Many have already found a job.

“It’s definitely the best time to get the experience and get hands on and jump into action,” Compton said.