
Edwin Adan Saldana
Edwin Adan Saldana
Class Year
’28
Hometown
McHenry, Illinois
Major(s)
Nursing
Inspired by a desire to make a meaningful impact in his career, Edwin Adan Saldana ’28 transferred to Carthage and switched his major to nursing. Since then, he has become deeply involved in his college experience, finding support from a community of peers and faculty along the way. “I have made many special connections with people and have been given many opportunities through the nursing program,” he says.
Why Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because I wanted to pursue an education that would help me make an impact and also show the people around me that it can be done. I transferred from UW-Parkside to pursue a degree in athletic training, but then switched to the nursing major. Ever since, I have been more involved, and I’m gaining a valuable education with my peers.”
Faculty mentors
“There have been numerous Carthage faculty members who have impacted my life and my Carthage career. Many are professors and advisors in the Nursing Department. One person who stands out is Professor Nancy Reese. When I was deciding to switch majors to nursing, she supported my decision and let me know she was there to guide me through the process. On top of that, I built a stronger relationship with her on a J-Term trip to Honduras. She was the trip coordinator and showed me what it’s like to help the people of Honduras and what being a nurse truly means. My relationships with faculty are valuable — they help me succeed in my career through outstanding leadership and guidance.”
Favorite class
“Fundamental Concepts for Nursing Clinical has been my favorite class because it involved attending a nursing lab with classmates and implementing what we were learning in class on each other or the mannequins. Being able to do that was a big help because it gave me an accurate representation of what I will experience in the nursing workplace. As someone who learns better through hands-on activities, this class was helpful and a lot of fun. I also learned a lot because I was able to ask for help or see what others were doing, which allowed me to incorporate those techniques into a style that works for me.”
Toughest class
“The most challenging class I have taken at Carthage so far has been Pathophysiologic Concepts for Nursing Practice because I had to approach it differently than I did other courses. I had to figure out which study methods worked for me and which did not. Thankfully, Professor Lynn Mellenthien was a big help and wanted to see me succeed, which was motivating.”
Unique opportunities
“One standout opportunity was the study abroad trip to Honduras I took with faculty Nancy Reese and Rachel Martinez. We went to Honduras and helped the community by providing healthcare services, including medical, dental, and pharmacy care; water filters; and Evangelism. Being a part of this trip has opened my eyes to the world, showing me that everyone’s way of living is different, yet we are all the same — we are human. I’m grateful to have gone on this trip because it sparked my interest in studying abroad and in exploring a career as a travel nurse.”
Favorite spot on campus
“My favorite spot on campus is the Nursing Simulation Lab. As a nursing student, I will spend most of my time learning and then applying my skills in the lab. Another favorite spot is the because it is a nice spot to disconnect, kick a soccer ball around, and enjoy the weather.”
Favorite memory
“Some of my favorite memories from Carthage come from my J-Term trip to Honduras because it was a great way to meet new people. Just being able to bond with my classmates, whether at meals, in my free time, or when providing care for the people of Honduras, was a nice feeling overall. Building relationships with the locals was something special as well. That week in Honduras will never be forgotten, and I will carry it with me.”
Best study tip
“The best study tip I have for students is to take time to figure out what works best for you because something that works for your peers may not work for you — whether it is active recall, Quizlet, reviewing notes, using notecards, or something else. I recommend asking upper-level students what methods they use and speak with your faculty to get advice and study tips.”
Best tip for making friends
“The best way to make friends at Carthage is to get involved in clubs and organizations, be open to meeting new people, and try new things.”
What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?
“My 8-year-old self would think that being a nurse is the right thing to do because I have always felt like I was put here to support the people around me. If I have the ability to help people in need, I will, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to do so at Carthage.”