Nursing Through Unitek: Adriana’s Story
Adriana’s nursing journey began in an unexpected way—completely online. Her first year of nursing school allowed her to ease into student life, continue working as a phlebotomist at Sierra View Medical Center, and welcome her first child.
By her second year, life got even busier. Alongside simulation labs and more intensive coursework, Adriana found herself navigating nursing school while pregnant, welcoming her second child during the program.
Now entering her third and final year, Adriana is focused on the finish line. “The end is in sight. I just have to keep working hard and push through,” she says. That’s because graduation will be here before she knows it. Adriana is part of the first-ever cohort of nursing students in Sierra View Medical Center's Nursing Education Pathway, Powered by Unitek College and will graduate next March!
Her path to nursing wasn’t a straight line. Adriana initially pursued a degree in education, thinking she’d become a first-grade teacher. But something didn’t feel right. A cousin suggested trying phlebotomy—and that’s where everything changed. She joined Sierra View in 2019 and found herself drawn to patient care in a deeper way.
When it came time to advance her career, Adriana applied to several nursing programs across the Central Valley and, like many, landed on a waitlist. Then Sierra View’s Nursing Education Pathway opened up—and she knew it was meant for her.
“It’s a competitive program, but I would encourage anyone interested in becoming a nurse to apply,” said Adriana. “Everything is local, you don’t have to travel for clinical hours, and you already know the amazing nurses you’ll be learning alongside,” she continued. She encourages people to be prepared to focus on school if they pursue this degree, “Be ready to commit. Sometimes I have to skip family events, but it’s all about balance and staying focused.”
Adriana credits her success to a strong support system. Early mornings are her study time, and help from her mom and mother-in-law has been invaluable. She says, “I’m so lucky to have my mom and my mother-in-law nearby to help with the babies.” She’s especially thankful for her husband and entire family, who’ve supported her through each step.
Adriana looks forward to the day she becomes a registered nurse and can care for the community that has supported her. For her, it will be an honor to give back and make a difference in people’s lives. Until then, her world revolves around textbooks, NCLEX prep, toddler toys, and lullabies. Her children have been part of this journey from the beginning—and when she crosses the graduation stage next March, they’ll be right there beside her, a reminder that with heart and hard work, anything is possible.
Interested in becoming a nurse through Sierra View Medical Center's Nursing Education Pathway, Powered by Unitek College? Learn more and apply here.
