Meet MSN Students
UIC Nursing students—from bachelor's to master's to doctoral—are living lives of inspiration. Here we introduce a few of our master's students.
Check in often. We're adding new students regularly.
MS testimonials Heading link
Mariam Keita
Program: MS for non-RNs
Hometown: Chicago
Campus: Chicago
Undergraduate degree: Applied psychology| December 2023
Describe your favorite moment as a nursing student so far? Heading link
Describe your favorite moment as a nursing student so far?
My favorite moments are getting to know and bonding with my cohort. I am surrounded by intelligent, dedicated, and wonderful human beings. Each person brings their talents and uniqueness to the table. It is equally amazing to see how we’ll go above and beyond to see each other succeed. We do our best to balance classwork and fun and I’ve seen many new friendships blossom, including my own.
Why did you want to become a nurse?
The short answer is that I want to help people. The long answer is that I’ve watched family members bounce back and forth in the health care system, sometimes receiving the treatment they needed, and sometimes not. I’m viscerally aware of the inequalities in health care for people of color. Both of my parents are immigrants from West Africa, and often, I’m the designated ‘translator’ to help them understand their care. I see myself as the bridge to help lessen the burden on my family with managing care, and I want to extend my abilities to others. Above all, I want to help underserved people receive the healthcare they deserve, because healthcare is a right, not a privilege to those who can afford it.
What do you do for fun outside of school?
During my down time, I write. I’m a fantasy author and am currently working on about three books and planning for about 2-3 more. Aside from writing, I recently picked up my old hobby of crocheting and I’m working on a scarf!
MS testimonials Heading link
Katelyn Osterbauer
Program: MS for non-RNs
Hometown: Brush, Colorado
Campus: Chicago
Undergraduate degree: Fitness science| December 2025
Describe your favorite moment as a UIC Nursing student so far? Heading link
Describe your favorite moment as a UIC Nursing student so far?
I have been amazed with the level of opportunity and camaraderie that UIC College of Nursing provides. I am not from Chicago, but my fellow classmates have shown me all around the city. During our lunch break after intense pharmacology or pathophysiology exams, a few of us will find a new restaurant to try within the surrounding neighborhoods. Nursing school can be stressful and overwhelming, but the support system I have experienced at UIC has made this transition much more enjoyable.
Why did you want to become a nurse?
I served in the United States Air Force as a paramedic and enlisted healthcare provider for eleven years. During this time, I witnessed the complexity of health care and the importance of well-rounded team members. From my experience, the nurses were the key to patient and mission success. Nurses have a history of being at the frontlines both on and off the battle field, and I aspire to be part of their rich history.
What else are you involved in through school (clubs, groups, extracurriculars)?
I am the student ambassador for the Master of Science in Nursing program through the Student Engagement and Leadership Development Club. This club focuses on interprofessional collaboration and engagement across seven health science programs.
MS testimonials Heading link
Devin Jacobs
Program: MS for non-RNs
Hometown: Naperville, IL
Campus: Chicago
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of Science in human physiology| December 2024
Why did you want to become a nurse? Heading link
Why did you want to become a nurse?
I love patient care! I transitioned from wanting to be a physician’s assistant to a nurse because I realized how much I enjoy caring for patients at the bedside after working in two different ICUs in Colorado. Through those experiences, I expanded my understanding of what it means to be a nurse and how to care for patients who are critically ill.
What else are you involved in through school (clubs, groups, extracurriculars)?
I am involved in the Graduate Student Nurses Organization (GSNO) Executive Board. I serve as the Health Professional Student Council (HPSC) Co-Representative for GSNO. With this role I am also a member of the HPSC. This year I am proud to have helped plan and run GSNO’s “Winter Warm-Up” clothing donation drive which benefitted the Broadway Youth Center! Additionally, I work as a Nursing Technician in the Emergency Department at UI Health!
MS testimonials Heading link
Matthew McCarthy
Program: MS for RNs
Hometown: Chicago| December 2024
Why did you want to become a nurse? Heading link
Why did you want to become a nurse?
I have always had the strong desire to help, ever since my days in the United States Navy. I have an aunt who was a nurse for 30+ years. I saw how much she loved helping others in their time of need. She inspired me to become a nurse and always encouraged me to further my education!
What do you do for fun outside of school?
I have a now one-year-old son (first child). The master’s program and my son, while working full time, take up most of my free time. I do love just hanging out with family when I do have free time.
MS testimonials Heading link
Coleen Smith
Program: MS for RNs
Hometown: Chicago| August 2024
Why did you want to become a nurse? Heading link
Why did you want to become a nurse?
I initially wanted to go to veterinary school, but when I explored nursing, I discovered I loved being a nurse. Fun fact: I am a third-generation nurse following my mom and grandmother’s footsteps.
What do you do for fun outside of school?
I also work full time, so time is precious right now. I love to hike (with my 5 small dogs & husband), bike (in good weather), read, and garden.
MS testimonials Heading link
Chi-Chi Osuji
Program: MS for non-RNs
Hometown: Elgin, Illinois
Campus: Urbana
Undergraduate degree: Anthropology| December 2023
Describe your favorite moment as a nursing student so far? Heading link
Describe your favorite moment as a nursing student so far?
Every clinical experience! I learned something new during every clinical.
What else are you involved in through school (clubs, groups, extracurriculars)?
I joined GSNO (Graduate Student Nurses Organization) as a member and on the executive board.
What do you do for fun outside of school?
Outside of school, what I do for fun is travel. I like to travel (mostly internationally). Taking a quick weekend getaway to another state is also fun.