Sky’s the Limit for CSULB Nursing Grad Jonathan Tcheumani
In talking with recent School of Nursing graduate Jonathan Tcheumani, one can observe the genuine gratitude he expresses when talking about his journey at CSULB. At the recent nursing pinning ceremony – where students receive their final stamp of completion of their studies, signifying their entry into the professional world – Jonathan says he felt a sense of relief, pride and joy.
“It was good to see everyone celebrating what they had accomplished,” Tcheumani said. “Seeing all my teachers and sharing in the celebration with my cohort – it was a good energy all around.”
When it comes to sowing good energy, Jonathan is a practiced expert – something that will no doubt serve him well in his new career as a nurse. He hopes to become an Intensive Care Unit nurse after passing his NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), and following in the footsteps of both his mother and father who are nurses.
“My dad is originally from Cameroon [Africa]. He really had to work hard to get where he is now, and he really pushes education on all of us – I have two older brothers. Thinking about my family history really motivates me to keep pushing for more. I realize I have a lot of opportunities in front of me.”
Tcheumani credits his CSULB School of Nursing BSN Program as having played a major part in helping him to develop a growth mindset and an overall attitude of positivity – something that exudes through Tcheumani’s bright countenance.
“I kind of struggled in the beginning, but after the second semester it got easier. I started to lean more on my friends, went back and listened to the recordings I took of lectures – it was at that time that clinicals became easier, and my grades were getting better.”
Jonathan also credits the School of Nursing faculty as playing a big part in his success.
“Professor Konrad is someone who I really appreciated early on – she is such a great professor and she always motivates you and pushes you. She always tries to raise you up, encouraging us to have a growth mindset, and I think that is super important to have, going into a career like this.”
Tcheumani also said he had a lot of fun in the simulation labs during his time as a nursing student, especially in the maternal unit.
“It was really interesting because you work as a group – I feel like the best thing about the program is the friendships you make.”
Tcheumani says his biggest goal right now is passing the NCLEX and finding work as a nurse in California. As far as his decision about coming to CSULB to pursue his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, Tcheumani is all smiles, and once again is full of gratitude.
“It has been a great decision! I think the amount of growth I had in the last few years has changed my life, and I feel like a new person and ready for the opportunities that await me.”
