For Harsimar Sawhney, nursing is both a personal calling and a family tradition. This spring, she will graduate from Rutgers University–Camden as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), joining her two older brothers as the family's third DNP graduate from the School of Nursing.
But Sawhney’s journey is distinctly her own. A first-generation student commuting to campus, working full-time, and balancing countless responsibilities, she met the intense challenges of an accelerated path from BSN to DNP program with unwavering determination and courage.
“As the child of immigrant parents from India, my upbringing emphasized hard work, perseverance, and the importance of education,” Sawhney said. Her early life also cultivated her passion for culturally competent care and her commitment to serving diverse communities.
With the support of her family and a clear goal in mind, Sawhney began her academic journey at Rutgers University–Camden as an undergraduate nursing student. She distinguished herself as a scholar and campus leader, joining the Honors College and graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a minor in psychology.
Her hard work and commitment to the profession were further recognized through her induction into the Eta Mu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She was also deeply engaged in student life, serving as president of the Sikh Student Association and participating in the National Student Nurses Association and the South Asian Organization.
“Serving as president of the Sikh Student Association for four years was incredibly meaningful to me because it allowed me to build community, celebrate my cultural identity, and create a welcoming space for others,” said Sawhney.
She also relied on her brothers, who had already completed the nursing program, for support and advice. They emphasized staying grounded, managing time, and focusing on her motivation for nursing.
“They encouraged me to take full advantage of every opportunity, whether that meant getting involved on campus, building meaningful relationships with faculty, or stepping outside of her comfort zone,” Sawhney said.
As she looks ahead, Sawhney is preparing to step into her role as a family nurse practitioner and is motivated to give back to the communities she will serve. Reflecting on her journey, she describes Rutgers–Camden as a place of profound transformation—one that has shaped not only her career, but also her sense of self.
“Rutgers–Camden provided a close-knit environment, which allowed for meaningful mentorship and hands-on learning experiences that truly prepared me for real-world practice,” Sawhney said.
“My time here has shaped not only my career but who I am as a person,” she continued. “I have seen many versions of myself on this very campus, the strongest version standing here today. As I approach graduation, I feel a mix of gratitude, pride, and excitement for what’s ahead.”
