The Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences congratulates our May 2023 graduates! We proudly celebrate the accomplishments of our students, like Garrett Harvill, a TCU Nursing major. He spoke with Harris College about his undergraduate experience and post-graduate endeavors.
Why did you choose your area of study?
Growing up, my dad worked as a paramedic, and he would always tell me stories about the people he would save. This made me interested in health care from a young age; I knew I wanted to continue my education and go to college to get a degree in something I am passionate about.
During my senior year in high school, I got the opportunity to talk to someone who worked as a nurse for years. After my conversation with him and learning about what it takes to be a nurse, I knew that’s what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
What brought you to TCU?
As a Texas native, I wanted to stay in Texas so I could be close to my family. I toured a few schools but fell in love with TCU once I saw the campus and learned more about the university. TCU also has one of the best nursing programs in the country, so I knew I would leave prepared and feel confident to care for patients upon graduating.
What have you enjoyed most about being a Horned Frog?
As a Horned Frog, I’ve enjoyed the school spirit, especially during football and baseball games. TCU has one of the best school spirits I know. It was so cool that TCU had such a great football season during my senior year, so I got to go to the playoff and championship games. The community at this university is also very supportive and I loved getting to be a part of it.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’ve accepted a position in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at John Peter Smith (JPS) Health Network here in Fort Worth.
How did TCU help prepare you for your future career?
The nursing program has prepared me very well through my clinical experiences, simulations, classes and the connections I’ve been able to make. I truly feel prepared for the real world and starting my career.
Was there any particular experience that was especially helpful?
The simulations we got to do were extremely helpful in getting hands-on experience for my nursing degree. It was nice because we got to practice in a low-stakes environment where we could make mistakes and learn from them without having any real-world consequences.
What makes TCU so special to you?
TCU has a welcoming environment and makes you feel that you always belong. This special environment is the reason why I will forever be a proud Horned Frog. I have made so many friendships and connections during my time here and it’s that welcoming environment that made it possible.
Tell us about your proudest accomplishment while at TCU.
My proudest accomplishment during my time at TCU was getting inducted into Sigma Theta Tau, an international honor society for nurses.