Faces of NLU: Natalie Huante

For Natalie Huante, nursing isn't just a career path—it's a calling that began taking shape when she was just 10 years old. Her early fascination with healthcare crystallized into a clear vision during high school when her grandfather was diagnosed with cancer. "I witnessed firsthand the impact nurses had on my grandpa's care," Natalie recalls. "While observing, I noticed that nurses were truly the backbone of the care, and I wanted to positively impact my patients with the care I could provide."

That pivotal experience revealed to Natalie not only the technical aspects of nursing but also its deeply human dimension. As someone who describes herself as "caring and dedicated," she recognized that nursing would allow her to channel these qualities into meaningful service.

When it came time to choose a nursing program, Natalie discovered something special about National Louis University that set it apart from other Chicago-area institutions. "Being part of the first inaugural BSN program is a privilege that I am extremely grateful for," she shares. "When I attended informational sessions about the program, I felt a strong sense of community and connectivity."

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For Natalie, it wasn't just about finding a nursing school—it was about finding the right environment to grow. The supportive staff who guided her through the application process and addressed all her concerns made her decision "easy," as she puts it.

Looking ahead, Natalie has set her sights on becoming either an ICU or ER nurse—specialties that demand quick thinking and comfort with complexity.

"During my clinical rotations, I have realized my strengths are rooted deep in critical, rapid thinking, and I enjoy complex processes and care," she explains. This self-awareness has shaped her career aspirations, as she recognizes that intensive care and emergency settings will leverage her natural abilities.

If there's one word that captures Natalie's NLU experience, it's "transformative." This transformation has occurred not only in her skills and knowledge but in her confidence as a future healthcare professional.

She recalls a turning point during her first clinical rotations when Professor Papadakis provided much-needed encouragement. "I never thought professors at universities would care about my feelings and address my concerns about giving patient care for the first time," Natalie reflects. "He would give me words of encouragement and ask me weekly if I felt more confident giving care."

Similarly, Dr. Robbins-Frank has had a profound impact on Natalie's development as a critical thinker. "She would not answer our questions with answers but with questions," Natalie notes. "As maddening as it would be, it has shaped me to become a great critical thinker, and the information has stuck with me."

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Natalie's journey hasn't been without obstacles. The rigorous demands of nursing education required her to completely rethink her study habits and time management skills. "What really pushed me to overcome these challenges was my fiancé's support, reminding me why I am pursuing this career, and to keep pushing and trying," she shares. This perseverance speaks to Natalie's character and her commitment to her chosen path, even when facing difficulties. 

When asked what advice she would give to prospective NLU students, Natalie doesn't hesitate: "Just do it. You'll never regret trying something, but you will regret not trying something. Do it scared. Do it tired. You will never know unless you try." Her words embody the spirit of courage and determination that has guided her own educational journey.

As she continues working toward her nursing degree, Natalie acknowledges those who have supported her along the way, including Dr. Robbins-Frank "for believing in me even when I didn't believe in myself," and her family and fiancé Anthony "for never giving up on me and motivating me when I needed it."

Natalie Huante represents the best of NLU—a student who has embraced the opportunities before her, grown through challenges, and is preparing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As part of the inaugural BSN class, she is helping to build a legacy that will inspire future generations of nursing students at National Louis University.