Northern Marianas College 2024 nursing graduates Ming Palacios and Donna Mallari have joined the long list of NMC students who have passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses or NCLEX-RN.
Nursing graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN to be able to practice nursing as a Registered Nurse. The exam tests nursing graduates' knowledge, skills, and abilities to certify that they can apply entry-level nursing practices correctly.
“Congratulations to Ming and Donna on their successful passage of the NCLEX-RN,” said NMC President Galvin Deleon Guerrero, EdD. “The College is incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing their contributions to the nursing profession.”
“Ming and Donna have earned this achievement and the Nursing team and I cannot be more proud of them,” Nursing Department Chair Rosa Aldan said. “We look forward to seeing them serve the community as Registered Nurse and wish them well in their nursing careers.”
After seeing a close friend graduate from NMC and work at the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation (CHCC), Palacios was inspired to pursue her nursing career.
“Her encouragement gave me the courage to take the first step. As I progressed through the program, I realized how much I truly love helping others and taking care of those in need,” she stated. “The knowledge I’ve gained has not only deepened my passion for nursing but also empowered me to live a healthier life and care for my loved ones.”
Palacios attributes her passage to personal dedication, support from family and friends, and her nursing instructors at NMC. Dedication to countless hours of studying, staying committed, comfort from family, and emotional support from her friends were all factors that contributed to her success.
She personally thanks her instructors, “A huge thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Aldan, Ms. Bre, and Dr. Lee. Their knowledge, dedication, and sometimes strict guidance helped me stay on track and improve my understanding. They pushed me to do my best, and I am forever grateful for their mentorship.”
Palacios was well prepared for the NCLEX through the Kaplan resources provided by NMC. She noted, “The weekly Kaplan sessions were key in building my confidence and preparing me for the real NCLEX experience.”
As a message to students who plan to take the NCLEX, Palacios shared a quote by Veronica Roth that kept her going, “Fear doesn’t shut you down; it wakes you up.”
She encourages students to believe in themselves, no matter the challenges. “You’ll face highs and lows, especially with practice tests, but don’t let setbacks discourage you. Take time to understand the rationales behind your mistakes—it will make a big difference.”
Palacios plans to apply to work as a Registered Nurse at CHCC.
Mallari, a classmate of Palacios, acquired a deep appreciation for the compassionate care provided by healthcare professionals. Growing up, she frequently accompanied her parents to the hospital, further developing her passion.
“This experience inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, driven by a strong desire to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others,” she said.
Her success on the NCLEX was driven by the invaluable knowledge from her instructors, rigorous and consistent practice with question banks, and unwavering support from her family and friends. She added, “Effective time management also played a crucial role in my preparation and overall success.”
Through the utilization of Kaplan through NMC, Mallari and her classmates were able to complete thousands of practice questions and participate in live review sessions. In addition to this, Mallari took numerous practice quizzes and subscribed to various NCLEX prep programs such as UWorld and Archer, enhancing her critical thinking skills and deepening her familiarity with the exam format.
In advice to students who are planning to take the NCLEX, she highlighted the importance of consistency and determination. “Create a well-structured study plan and maintain discipline in following it. The preparation process can be challenging and, at times, overwhelming, but perseverance is key,” she said.
“If you find yourself feeling exhausted or discouraged, take a short break to recharge, then refocus with renewed determination. Always remind yourself of the passion and purpose that led you to pursue nursing. Stay committed, trust the process, and believe that your dedication and hard work will ultimately lead to success!”
Mallari is now working as a Registered Nurse with CHCC.