When current FNP graduate student and alumna Brandy Pressley ('16 BSN alumna) began her nursing journey as a freshman, she immediately felt at home at UofSC Nursing.

"My mom went to UofSC for her nursing degree, so I grew up a Gamecock. It was a warm feeling attending the same university as my mom...it only felt right to return for my FNP degree," says Brandy. 

Her mother, Kendra Criminger, a psychiatric nurse, is proud of Brandy for choosing a nursing career and values this special bond. "I always encouraged Brandy to make her own choices, but I think she saw the important work I do as a nurse and felt called to do the same." 

Kendra
Q: What values as a nurse did you instill in Brandy as she grew up?
A: The key component that I instilled in Brandy is compassion and integrity. Teaching Brandy about empathy and treating others with respect and honesty was important to me. 

Q: Why is UofSC important to you and your family?
A: UofSC provided me with the well-rounded knowledge to be a nursing leader and have a successful career. Now my daughter is setting herself up for the same success. 

Brandy 
Q: Besides your love for the Gamecocks, why did you return to UofSC for your graduate degree?
A: The BSN program prepared me to be a nurse leader, and I knew the grad program would do the same. We learned essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, respect, dedication, professionalism, and integrity. I knew the graduate program would do the same.