Graduation Spotlight: Julia Ciotti, BSN (Traditional 4-Year Program)

What is your favorite DU Nursing memory?

I don’t have a singular favorite memory, but I will forever treasurer the lifelong friendships I have made. Those incredible people (you know who you are) have changed my life and will always hold a special place in my heart.

What was your favorite late-night study snack?

My go-to study snack is anything sweet because I love desserts. Gummy bears never fail to satisfy my sugar cravings and keep me energized.

Why did you choose to attend Duquesne University?

I am from Pittsburgh, so Duquesne felt like my second home. When I visited campus for the first time, I felt a sense of excitement and unlimited potential sweep over me. I was welcomed with open arms and encouraged to embrace my time on “The Bluff.” I found immense comfort in the faith aspect of the Spiritan community as well. I knew immediately that no matter what happened, I would have someone to turn to for support in every aspect of my life.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Duquesne and/or as a Nursing student?

I most enjoyed stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing the changes that were thrown at me. During these past four years, I have grown and succeeded in ways I could have never imagined. Taking on leadership roles has allowed me to make a positive impact on the Duquesne and Pittsburgh communities.

What are you going to miss?

I am going to miss waking up to the beautiful Pittsburgh skyline every morning. Watching the sun rise and set over the city never gets old.

What was your biggest achievement as a DU Nursing student?

My biggest achievement as a DU Nursing student was being awarded the Nightingale Awards of Pennsylvania BSN Scholarship. I am incredibly humbled and grateful to receive that honor.

What words of advice do you have for other students on how to make the most of the Duquesne Nursing experience?

Navigating nursing school is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The people you meet along this journey will shape your life forever. Don’t hesitate to make new friends, join student organizations and get involved. Cherish your Duquesne days because they will fly by in the blink of an eye.

What are your plans or goals for the future?

I have accepted a Registered Nurse position on an obstetrics unit. In this new role, I will care for women during labor, delivery and postpartum, in addition to their infants in a level 2 nursery. I have always had a passion for women’s health, and my obstetrics clinical rotation further confirmed that sentiment. I fell in love with the mother-baby dyad and the compassionate nursing care provided to this special patient population. I am incredibly honored to play a part in these precious life moments. This is my dream job, and I am so excited to start my career as a Duquesne nurse!

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I would like to thank all of my instructors who made an incredible impact on my educational and personal journeys. I am so thankful for you and your unwavering support and guidance the past four years. You inspire me to become a nursing educator one day and impact the future of other young nurses. I would also like to thank my family and friends for loving me unconditionally. I couldn’t have done this without you. I love you!