UArizona Nursing Class of 2021: Karla Teran

Aug. 9, 2021

University of Arizona College of Nursing student Karla Teran began her nursing journey because of her innate passion for helping others. “Being at the hospital and being able to help those in need makes my heart happy,” she explains. A native of Mexico, Teran will graduate with her Master of Science for Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MEPN), which is tailor made for students holding university degrees in other fields who want to become registered nurses.

In addition to her academic endeavors, Teran has also excelled as a UArizona student athlete, demonstrating solid skills in Track & Field. In May, 2019, she won the ladies high jump championship at the Pac-12 Track & Field Championships with a clearance of 1.88m (6-2).

We caught up with Karla recently to learn more about her time in the MEPN program and her thoughts about her bright post-graduation future.


I was a huge fan of the Wildcats growing up. I would come to the university and compete at their track meets and see myself one day wearing the UA uniform. I always knew I wanted to pursue nursing and when I looked at the UArizona nursing website I was impressed by their programs and how they helped students succeed here," ~ Karla Teran, MEPN Student


Why did you choose UArizona Nursing to pursue your studies?

I was a huge fan of the Wildcats growing up. I would come to the university and compete at their track meets and see myself one day wearing the UA uniform. I always knew I wanted to pursue nursing and when I looked at the UArizona nursing website I was impressed by their programs and how they helped students succeed here.

How have your academic studies been in the context of being an international student?

It was completely a challenge for me, as I grew up in Mexico and didn't know the language. I started learning English approximately six months before I came to study at the University of Arizona. My freshman year was a struggle with the language barrier. Everyone was very supportive and I couldn't have done it without all the people that supported me.

Can you share a bit about your experience as a student athlete? Has that discipline fed into your nursing studies in any form?

Being a student athlete at UArizona was an amazing experience that I would never change. It was certainly hard for me to miss classes sometimes and have to catch up while traveling, but it was all worth it. As an athlete, I got to meet many people who I now consider my family. I also believe being a student athlete helped me grow up as a person and be more confident in who I am outside of school and the track. Being part of the track team has helped me develop my time management, communication, motivation, teamwork, and organizational skills. All which I applied while in nursing school.

What does it mean to you to be a Wildcat Nurse?

Being a Wildcat Nurse means the world to me. I will and will always be a Wildcat in my heart. I learned so much and had so many experiences while studying at UArizona, which I will always appreciate.

What are your plans for the future?

After I graduate, my goal is to pass the NCLEX and start working on and intensive care unit. My dream is to be able to work in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and further develop my skills. Later on in the future I plan to go back to school and obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).