Selkirk nursing graduate Kara Sundberg recently won the University of Victoria faculty of human and social development's Award of Distinction for the highest grade point average of all graduates in the faculty.
Sundberg's GPA was not only the highest in her nursing program, it was the highest in the faculty, which included students from seven other programs.
“I feel honoured to have won this award, especially among so many great students in my graduating class,” said Sundberg.
Sundberg, who lives in Crescent Valley, chose to attend Selkirk’s nursing program because she had the option to stay closer to home while obtaining her degree from UVic.
“It was very important for me to have the option to study at Selkirk and stay close to home,” said Sundberg. “I don't think I would have gone back to school if the option wasn’t available.”
She earned her first degree from UVic in biology and began working in forestry and fisheries, but developed an interest in human physiology, which led her to nursing. Nursing is a great fit for Sundberg, who has been described by her senior instructors as quietly accomplished and humble, offering serene care for others, especially those who are marginalized in society.
Ruth DuBois, nursing program coordinator and one of Sundberg’s instructors, says “Kara is very supportive of people in need, whether it’s been another student in her class, clients and patients, or those living on the fringe.
“Along with her academic excellence, she has always valued helping people and has focused on holistic and collaborative ways to do that.”
Sundberg’s experience at Selkirk was positive and supportive.
“The instructors were incredibly personable and supportive, and the small class size and diversity of practicum experiences provided me with a great learning environment,” she says. “I also wanted to get involved in my community and thought nursing was a good fit for this.”
Sundberg is now working as a nurse on a medical unit at Kootenay Lake Hospital in Nelson and her plans are to pursue a career in Nelson or the surrounding area.
“This is my community and this is where I hope to remain,” she says. “I hope to gain as much experience as I can over the next year or two and eventually specialize.”