John Vanderlee Male Nursing Award

My name is Nathaniel Gumapac. I just finished my first year in the BNSc. Program at Queen’s University. Growing up, I always wanted to join the health care field. After researching the various types of careers, I noticed that only nursing really tried to build a trusting relationship with the patient; we advocate for them and help them get better on their own terms, rather than relying solely on medications or surgery. In addition to this, I was inspired by my mom’s story of an extraordinary nurse who helped her recover while she was in the hospital. As the recipient of the John Vanderlee Male Nursing award, I hope that I can be a good representative for other young men who shy away from nursing due to the gender gap and I often share my passion for nursing to people who are unsure of what university program to choose. At Queen’s, I am currently the Year President for the Class of 2022, the Intern to the Nursing Science Society Vice President of University Affairs, and Vice President of the newly founded Queen’s Pinoy (Filipino) Association. Outside of school, my hobbies include playing the piano and many other instruments, cooking and baking, working out, and going on long walks with my dog. During this summer, I’m working full-time in order to finance my studies.