Meet Ashley

Name: Ashley Ruelas

Class of: 2025

Program: Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Executive Leadership

"Not only does scholarship assistance improve our standard of living, but it also enables me to better provide for my family."


What do you like most about SNHU?

It's flexibility and many opportunities.

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

The impact of receiving this scholarship is immeasurable for my family. Our current financial situation, marked by significant medical bills, tuition expenses, and the overall increased cost of living, makes it crucial for us to receive financial support. Not only does scholarship assistance improve our standard of living, but it also enables me to better provide for my family. It's my firm belief that the financial burden of college should not impede my aspirations, and I am determined to set an example of hard work and perseverance for my children.

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

Thank you for granting me the Nursing Scholarship for the 2024-2025 school year. I am a wife and mother of two children, ages 6 and 8, in Allen, Texas. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to nursing in various capacities. Currently, I serve as a school nurse, an oncology nurse, and an aesthetic injector. Each role allows me to contribute to patient care in unique ways, all while being a full-time student obtaining my master's degree. This has been the best college experience I've had so far, and I am obtaining my fourth degree. I will graduate in January 2025 with a Master's Degree in Nursing Executive Leadership.

Upon completing my degree, I am eager to transition into a role as a nursing instructor while continuing to provide hands-on patient care at the bedside. I see this dual role as an opportunity to not only care for patients directly but also to mentor and guide aspiring nurses. It is important to me to inspire and support others in finding their niche within the field, encouraging them to pursue roles that truly resonate with their interests. Ultimately, I hope to help others discover fulfillment and longevity in their nursing careers.

My family and I thank you deeply for this opportunity to continue to advance my career and provide for others.

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

I chose to attend SNHU online because of the flexibility with the online classes, tuition prices, and well-known reputation.

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you’d imagined?

When I first set out to log in and complete my work to earn my degree, I never expected to find such an incredible amount of support and a sense of community. Not only have I become a member of various groups, but I've also received scholarships that have made my educational journey even more rewarding.

What is your dream job?

I am looking to be in a leadership role in nursing.

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

My academic advisor, Natale Pereira, has been a great resource and always quick to help.

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

I am a member of the National Society for Leadership and Success (NSLS).

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

Covering the expenses that come with obtaining an education can be challenging. I deal with this by applying to scholarships as well as making my degree more affordable with the help of tuition discounts.

What are you proudest of?

I'm proud of successfully reaching my dreams of attaining a Master's degree, high GPA, and receiving scholarships for the first time in my life.

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

As a graduate, I would like to stay involved through alumni events and NSLS events.

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