At Interstaff, we are honored to walk alongside international nurses as they take steps toward fulfilling their dreams of becoming U.S. Registered Nurses. One of our nurses, Carolyne M., has an incredible story of perseverance, faith, and the power of support while pursuing her career through our F-1 Visa Program.
What is the F-1 Visa Program?
Interstaff’s U.S. Nursing Student (F-1) Visa Program seeks international nursing students who are recent or soon-to-be graduates from U.S. nursing programs and are currently in the United States on the F-1 Student Visa.
Carolyne’s Journey
When Carolyne arrived in the United States from Kenya in August 2023, her path was not straightforward. She initially enrolled in a program that was not connected to her nursing profession. Unsure of what to do next, she began reaching out to agencies for support in returning to her calling as a nurse.
“The first three agencies told me to go back to Kenya and join them from there, which was not possible because I was already here,” she explained. “I needed an agency that would take me here.”
That’s when Carolyne discovered Interstaff. After speaking with someone from our team, she was encouraged to share her unique situation and nursing background.
“For me, that was a glimpse of hope,” Carolyne recalled. “My situation was unique, but Interstaff said, ‘We will work with you and help you join nursing.’”
Finding Family in Interstaff
Carolyne’s experience reflects Interstaff’s Nurse First value.
“Interstaff trusted me before I even did the NCLEX. They took me in, paid my flight to Phoenix, settled me, got a house for me, furniture… They risked everything for me. For me, that’s a lifetime experience and gift that I will never forget.”
For Carolyne, the support she received extended beyond her professional journey.
“I keep telling my friends that Interstaff has been family for me because I’m alone in America. Alone in terms of my brothers, my family, they are all back home… Interstaff took me in as one of them and settled me. They were concerned not only with my professional goals but also my personal and social goals.”
Interstaff helped Carolyne connect with a community, new friends, and the encouragement she needed to feel at home in the U.S.—reminding her that the nursing journey is not just about work, but about life.
Advice for Other Nurses
Having walked this path, Carolyne offers words of encouragement to international nurses who are considering pursuing their dream of becoming a U.S. RN:
“My advice to any nurse back there who wants to become a USRN is that it’s possible. You can do it. Just follow the steps. There are small steps sometimes. Sometimes it’s fast. Obey, follow the steps, obey rules, and be disciplined. You will eventually make it. And it’s a good experience. It’s worth it.”
Looking Ahead
Carolyne’s journey shows the unique opportunity the F-1 Visa Program provides—allowing international nursing students to study and begin their careers in the U.S. at the same time. Her resilience and Interstaff’s steadfast support set her on the path to a successful future as a U.S. Registered Nurse!
At Interstaff, we are proud to be part of Carolyne’s story and look forward to supporting her throughout the rest of her U.S. nurse journey!
Are you an F-1 Visa student in the United States? Apply with us today!