Acing the test: First BSN cohort earns 100% NCLEX pass rate

The first five graduates of Concordia University Chicago's new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program continue to make history-even after commencement. The group recently took the National Council State Board of Nursing Examination (NCLEX-RN), a necessary step before becoming registered nurses, and every student passed. 

This milestone reflects the hard work of the first five-Nicolaus Anderson (BSN '25), Stephany Arroyo (BSN '25), Gabriella Galvez (BSN '25), Denise Guaman (BSN '25), and Amy Lobo (BSN '25)-and the dedication of the faculty who walked closely alongside them, mentoring, encouraging, and preparing them every step of the way. 

"The NCLEX success of the inaugural nursing cohort provides a tangible witness to the foundation of excellence in nursing education on which the CUC Nursing program was built," said Director of Nursing Kristen Bayer, MSN, APN, FNP-C. "The hard work, determination, and dedication to excellence in Nursing by our students is what made that success possible." 

Among the five graduates, Galvez, who is completing orientation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago, shared her experience taking the exam: "I was really nervous to take the NCLEX, but when I finished, it was the most confident I'd ever felt about an exam throughout my entire nursing school career."

Guaman, who went through the Nursing program with Galvez, agreed: "By the time I was ready to take the NCLEX, everything we had learned throughout the program came together. It wasn't just about memorizing information; it was about understanding how to think like a nurse, which made a big difference going into the exam."

Both graduates explained that the test was the easy part of their journey-a reflection of years of rigorous study and the help of professors dedicated to their success. Galvez added, "Everyone involved in the Nursing program played an instrumental part in getting us here. We would not be here without their hard work behind the scenes."

Since its start in August 2023, when the first classes were held, the program's strong foundation has shaped its rapid growth. Following the first five graduates, nearly 100 other CUC students are working toward their Nursing degrees. Despite the program's growing size, its community is still tight knit.

"When you go through Nursing school, your classmates are your friends for life," said Lobo, who has become a mentor for some of her peers still in the program. "Even now that I'm done, my friends still come to me for guidance. It's exciting because we're all invested in each other and want to see everyone succeed, expand, and grow in their careers."

The sense of care fostered in the program extends beyond the classroom. Guaman, who is beginning her next chapter at St. Anthony Hospital in Chicago, is excited about stepping into her new role. She explained that while Concordia-Chicago equipped her with the knowledge and skills to pursue her vocation, it also gave her the confidence and compassion needed to make a real difference in the lives of her patients and families.

"Ultimately," said Guaman, "I hope to be a nurse that patients can trust, feel comfortable with, and rely on during some of their most vulnerable moments."

Share this article