Q&A with the Class of 2022: Kristine Mae Pasco

Kristine Mae Pasco with her advisor, Associate Professor Sanghyuk Shin.

Kristine Mae Pasco graduates this month from the UCI Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner Program.

She successfully presented her capstone project, Tuberculosis (Tb) screening among Healthcare Workers (HCW) in hospital and long-term care facilities: A quality improvement project to assess and improve HCW’s perspective and willingness in implementing guidelines for TB screening, last week. Her advisors were Associate Professor Sanghyuk Shin and DNP Program Director Nicole Martinez.

What is your proudest moment as a UCI Nursing student?

It was when I realized that the knowledge that I gained in our program and my direct actions aided in making a positive impact on someone’s health. It was also when my patients and their families recognized my compassion by serving as their advocate in any way I can.

How has your nursing education at UCI prepared you to move forward in your nursing career?

My DNP degree has increased my understanding of nursing science and provided an opportunity to research nursing issues to improve the health of at-risk populations. I am looking forward to providing advanced care to develop close-knit bonds with my patients and their families and give back to the community that has given me many life opportunities.

What is one thing you wish you knew when you were starting nursing school?

I wish I knew how to rest and give myself some grace. I realized that rest is key to avoiding burnout during the nursing program. There were multiple occasions when I felt that I reached a point while studying where I could no longer absorb information. Not until I’m almost done with a program is when I realize that taking a break to clear my mind is equally as important as taking care of my physical health.

How did your mentor at UCI prepare and support you on your journey?

My success in this program would not have been possible without the exceptional support of all of our previous and current DNP professors; their enthusiasm, knowledge, and exacting attention to detail have been an inspiration and kept my work on track from the beginning of the program to the completion of the final requirements in our program.

I would especially like to thank Dr. Sarah Campbell and Dr. Susanne Phillips. They saved me from drowning in this program and life in general.

Most importantly, I want to thank my family members, my husband, Marco Pasco, and our son, Marc, for providing the unending support and inspiration.