The Yale School of Nursing (YSN) Class of 2024 holds the distinction of earning diplomas during the school’s centennial year. As graduating students prepare for the conferral of degrees on May 20, YSN is checking in with just a few of the extraordinary students adding hoods to their regalia this year.
Marquirsha Claxton ’24 MSN
Hometown: New Haven, CT
Specialty: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
What was it like to attend graduate school at the university you lived near and visited as a child?
Yale University has always felt like a part of my backyard, and visiting Yale as a kid was quite common for me, especially with my family’s ties to the university—my grandfather was employed at Yale and my dad is currently a Yale Police officer. I spent many memorable moments exploring Old Campus and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the university.
Is there an excursion you took during the program, either for a nursing course or for yourself, that you will always remember?
While each class, clinical experience, and travel excursion has contributed to my growth as a future nurse, it’s the travel experiences that truly resonate with me. Travel has always been my place of calm, allowing me to broaden my horizons and gain new perspectives. Whether it’s immersing myself in different cultures or volunteering in underserved communities, these experiences have enriched my understanding of healthcare and humanity.
Traveling solo to Rio De Janeiro for my birthday this past March was an incredibly impactful experience. It offered me the chance to fully immerse myself in the vibrant culture of Brazil, delve into its rich history, and step outside of my comfort zone. One particular excursion stands out vividly in my memory—an early morning adventure that tested my endurance and determination.
Setting off at 4:30 am, I embarked on a journey that required both physical and mental fortitude. After an hour-long car ride to the starting point, I faced a challenging 45-minute hike to reach my destination. Along the way, doubts crept in and there were moments when I questioned whether I could continue. Yet, fueled by the desire to conquer this challenge, I pushed forward, refusing to let self-doubt deter me.
Reaching the summit was an immensely rewarding achievement. As the first rays of sunlight bathed the landscape in golden hues, I was greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Pedroa Do Telegrafo. The panoramic views stretched out before me, a breathtaking vista that made every step of the journey worthwhile.
My travels during the program were always about taking a step back to reset and come back refreshed. The program requires a lot of you, and it helps to always take care of yourself and enjoy the things you like to do outside of YSN.
What are your post-commencement plans?
I’m looking forward to celebrating this wonderful accomplishment with my friends and family. Their support has been invaluable throughout my journey, and I can’t wait to share this milestone with them. I’ll also be preparing to take my Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) boards, as I continue my dedication to serving others in the field of mental health.
My time at YSN has been transformative, and I’m eager to embark on the next chapter of my nursing career with enthusiasm and determination.
More Commencement Coverage
To read more student profiles and advice from six decades of YSN alumni to the Class of 2024, please visit the Commencement 2024 sidebar on the left (mobile devices, scroll down).
For more information on Yale’s commencement festivities, please visit commencement.yale.edu.
