Josie Artigas
Nursing graduate describes journey from Spain to TJC
Josie Artigas traveled far from home to attend Tyler Junior College.
A native of L’Escala, Spain, Artigas said, “I chose TJC when I decided that I would like to experience what it would be like to study in the United States; half out of luck, I searched for information and I thought TJC was an excellent institution. I have been a yoga teacher and student for 23 years, and I was also a [licensed vocational nurse] back home.”
On Saturday, she will earn her Associate Degree in Nursing from TJC.
“I am not a first-generation college student in my family, but I am the first that decided to do it in a different country and education system,” she said. “I wanted to challenge myself and see what I would be able to do, far from home.”
After TJC, she plans to remain in Texas to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and eventually become a nurse practitioner.
“My goal is to meld together my knowledge as a yoga teacher and as a nurse, to provide people the tools to increase their wellness and health through the physical and the mental,” she said.
Artigas gives nothing but high marks to her TJC professors.
“I’ve learned and loved American history, thanks to Prof. Stephen Baskind, and I also loved learning about the American government system,” she said. “Nursing-wise, my teachers have been my inspiration — from the kindness and big-hearted care of Prof. Blair Puren to the admiration I have for Prof. Suzanne Cheeseman. All of them portray the qualities of great nurses.”
When asked her advice to future students, Artigas said, “For people starting college, I would tell them to take some time to know themselves and think about what they truly want in life. When you choose to do something because it is what you love, there is a greater chance that success will just happen. Don’t do it because of someone else's expectations. Do it for yourself and for what you can bring to other’s lives.”
She continued, “We all are good at something. We just have to find out what it is, and it does not have to happen in a straight line. It is never too late to learn and grow.”