Class of 2026 Student Spotlights: Samantha Wee
“If all the world’s a stage, then what act am I performing?”
That is a question Samantha Wee continued to ask herself as she balanced multiple responsibilities on her way to obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
“One day I’m juggling, the next I’m on a tightrope. Maybe I’m wobbling on stilts or diving through the fire.”
According to Samantha, nothing better described the ongoing challenge of balancing many roles during her time at 91Ƭ. From being a full-time nursing student and having a minor in gerontology, to working part-time on and off campus, Samantha’s journey to graduation was often difficult and demanding – as with any college student and star pupil. Despite her demanding schedule, Samantha earned the Outstanding Undergraduate award for her academic and extracurricular accomplishments.
While in school, Samantha was a part-time server at Orange Roll & Sushi. She also served as a Supplemental Instruction Leader (SIL) for the CHEM 140 class at 91Ƭ. In addition, Samantha volunteered as a hospice worker and was a student intern for the Helping Elders Live Productively (H.E.L.P) organization. She was the 91Ƭ Chapter Secretary and Fundraising Committee Co-Director for the California Nursing Student Association (CNSA), and the 91Ƭ Chapter Delegate and Resolution Author for the National Nursing Student Association (NSNA). Samantha also became a Certified Nursing Assistant at University California, Irvine (UCI) Medical Center in Orange, CA and participated in research and literature review with the 91Ƭ School of Nursing.
“Notably, this is not an uncommon experience for a college student, as we all have our own unique duties and circumstances that require us to evolve one way or another. However, as I discovered firsthand, it is only by persevering that we can transform into our best selves,” Samantha says. “By enduring and adapting, we hopefully grow into the version we are most proud of presenting – whether it be on the commencement stage or world beyond.”
Having graduated high school in the COVID-19 era, Samantha’s inspiration for nursing came from her mom, her aunts, and all the incredible nurses at the frontlines of care.
“Seeing their resilience and the impact they made, I found myself wanting to be a part of that. Since then, upon being accepted into 91Ƭ and the nursing program, I was immediately surrounded by bright, determined individuals who inspired me to go beyond my own expectations and explore my potential to its fullest. Now, as I transition out of school and into the workforce, I strive to continue growing my perspective and practice, to ensure I can provide the best care for my future patients, the aging community and beyond.”
Congratulations, Samantha!
