Sophomores welcomed into the study of nursing during Spring 2023 Pledge Ceremony

The West Virginia University School of Nursing formally welcomed sophomores into the study of nursing during the Spring 2023 Nursing Pledge Ceremony, held Feb. 24 in the Okey Patteson Auditorium.

The nursing pledge is a commitment to demonstrate and respect the moral principles of the nursing profession. Specifically, the WVU School of Nursing Pledge speaks to integrity, compassion, ethics, patient advocacy and lifelong learning.

Selasi Asamoah, right, says becoming a nurse has been a lifelong dream for her. 

For Selasi Asamoah, the pledge ceremony is a special event and an important mile marker on her lifelong dream.

“I’ve wanted to be a nurse since before I can remember. It means so much to me to be able to help those who can’t help themselves,” Asamoah said. “If I can make just the smallest impact in someone’s life, it honestly would bring me so much joy. I know being a nurse is not always going to be easy, but it is a big dream of mine and I’m excited to see what the future holds!”

Nicole Catalfo says she chose nursing because the profession has always inspired her. 

Nicole Catalfo also sees the pledge ceremony as a symbolic step in the journey of the profession: “As nurses we vow to do no harm and to always put the needs of our patients above our own. This night is so special to the spring cohort as we enter a new chapter of our lives and begin our professional career.”

Catalfo said she chose to purse nursing because the career has always inspired her.

“The profession is so special in which it allows you to make strong connections with your patients and truly make a difference in someone's life,” she said. “With nursing you are with your patients through their most vulnerable moments, saving lives along the way. The nursing profession demands people that are warm in nature, have good communication skills, and are naturally empathetic.”

Bradley Walker says he chose nursing because he has always loved helping people. 

For Bradley Walker, the pledge ceremony is especially exciting because it means his class is officially one step closer to becoming nursing.

“I chose nursing because I’ve always loved helping people and knowing that I can make someone’s day just that little bit better by helping makes me feel good.”

The Spring 2023 Pledge Ceremony can be viewed on our YouTube channel.

More information about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can be found at nursing.wvu.edu.

-WVU-

CONTACT: Wendy Holdren
Director of Communications and Marketing
WVU School of Nursing
304-581-1772; wendy.holdren@hsc.wvu.edu