Konstandina Eliadis '26

Konstandina Eliadis ‘26 | Nursing major

Konstandina Eliadis ’26 was drawn to nursing for the opportunity to care for others in their most vulnerable moments. Through robust clinical experiences, small classes, and classmate camaraderie, Eliadis gained a broader understanding of the numerous roles nurses play across the healthcare systems. She believes the mentorship she received from faculty in Saint Anselm College’s Jean School of Nursing and Health Sciences has prepared her to confidently enter the nursing profession and work with all types of communities after graduation. 

Why did you choose Saint Anselm?

I chose Saint Anselm because of the strong sense of community and the opportunity to receive a value-based education. From the moment I visited campus, I felt that the Hilltop was a place where students are supported not only academically, but also personally and professionally. The smaller class sizes and close relationships with faculty really stood out to me, and I knew it would be an environment where I could grow into both a knowledgeable and compassionate nurse. I was also drawn to the College’s emphasis on service and ethical leadership, which aligns closely with the values that guide the nursing profession. 

How did you decide to study nursing? 

I was drawn to nursing because it combines science, critical thinking, and human connection. I’ve always been interested in healthcare, but what ultimately drew me to nursing was the opportunity to care for people during some of their most vulnerable moments. Nurses have a unique role in advocating for patients, supporting families, and making a meaningful difference in patient outcomes, and that responsibility is something that continues to inspire me. I also appreciate that nursing is a profession that encourages lifelong learning and growth as healthcare continues to evolve. 

As a Nursing major, what can you share about your clinical experiences?

One of the most valuable aspects of the nursing program at Saint Anselm is the variety of clinical experiences we are exposed to. Throughout my time in the program, I have had the opportunity to complete clinical rotations in medical-surgical, intensive care, maternity, pediatrics, community health, and geriatric settings. These experiences allowed me to work with diverse patient populations and gain a broader understanding of the different roles nurses play across the healthcare system. 

What did your senior year look like? 

I completed my senior preceptorship on a cardiac intermediate care unit at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In addition to my clinical rotations, working in a cardiac intensive care unit at Massachusetts General Hospital gave me further exposure to complex patient care and the collaborative nature of hospital-based nursing. This and my previous clinical experiences helped me apply what I learned in the classroom to real patient care situations while I continued to develop my clinical, communication, and critical thinking skills. 

Nursing is often regarded as an extremely challenging major. What keeps you motivated in your studies? 

What motivates me most is remembering the impact that compassionate and skilled nurses can have on patients and families. Clinical experiences constantly remind me why the work we do is so important. Even during the most challenging moments of the program, knowing that the knowledge and skills we develop will allow us to care for others in meaningful ways keeps me focused and motivated. The encouragement from faculty, mentors, classmates, and my own family has also played a huge role in helping me stay motivated and continue growing. 

Do you have a favorite class you’ve taken?

Critical Care Nursing, because it allowed me to apply so much of the course content directly to my clinical experiences. The class challenged me to think more deeply about complex patient conditions and clinical decision-making, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking. It also pushed me to connect pathophysiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment in a way that closely reflects the realities of caring for critically ill patients. Being able to see these concepts come to life in the clinical setting made the learning especially meaningful and helped strengthen my confidence in applying clinical knowledge to patient care. 

Why would you suggest someone study nursing at Saint Anselm?

The nursing program at Saint Anselm provides an incredibly supportive learning environment. Faculty members are deeply invested in student success and bring extensive clinical experience into the classroom, helping bridge the gap between theory and practice. The program emphasizes both strong clinical preparation and compassionate patient care, which I believe is essential in nursing. As a result, students graduate not only with strong clinical skills but also with the values and confidence needed to care for patients in complex healthcare settings. Throughout the program, we are also encouraged to think critically, advocate for our patients, and approach care with empathy and professionalism. 

What is your favorite memory from the Hilltop?

Some of my favorite memories come from the sense of camaraderie within the nursing program. Whether it’s preparing for exams together, supporting each other before clinical rotations, or celebrating milestones along the way, there is a strong sense of teamwork among students. Those shared experiences have made the challenges of the program much more rewarding. The friendships and support systems I formed are something I will carry with me long after graduation. 

Do you have any postgraduate plans?

After graduation, I hope to begin my career working in a hospital setting in Boston, where I can continue developing my clinical skills and growing as a new graduate nurse. My clinical experiences throughout the program have strengthened my passion for patient care and helping individuals during vulnerable moments in their lives. I am excited to continue learning as I transition into professional practice and to contribute to a healthcare team that prioritizes compassionate, patient-centered care. 

Can you sum up your overall experience at Saint Anselm? 

My time at Saint Anselm has helped shape not only my academic and professional development, but also my understanding of what it means to care for others holistically, with compassion and integrity. I’m incredibly grateful for the mentorship of the nursing faculty and the experiences that have prepared me to enter the nursing profession. The lessons I’ve learned on the Hilltop have strengthened me as an individual and will continue to guide me throughout my career as a nurse.