Inspired by her uncle, a psychiatric nurse for the Veterans Administration, Lauren Zicca ’26, knew she wanted to make a difference in the lives of those who serve our country. That passion led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Hartford while simultaneously participating in Air Force ROTC through the University of Connecticut.
Following graduation, Lauren will commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force and begin her career as a medical-surgical nurse at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. She hopes to eventually specialize as a psychiatric and behavioral health nurse, combining her interests in mental health and military service.
Lauren credits UHart's nursing program with helping her develop the resilience, perseverance, and professionalism needed to succeed in both nursing and military leadership.
"The courses were challenging but extremely rewarding," she says. "They taught me not only how to retain information, but also how to be resilient when times get tough. I learned collaboration, emotional intelligence, and how to care for patients with compassion."
One of the most influential people in Lauren's journey was nursing professor Valerie Whynall, whose own ROTC experience helped her understand the unique challenges Lauren faced balancing two demanding commitments.
"She was my biggest advocate," Lauren says. "She understood the stress that both the nursing program and ROTC placed on me. She pushed me to keep going, to be resilient when I wasn't sure I could continue both. She believed in me, which helped me believe in myself."
Lauren Zicca '26, College of Education, Nursing and Health ProfessionsBeing at a smaller university allowed me to form genuine, meaningful friendships and connections with professors. All of my professors knew my name and were there when I needed them. The friendships I've made will stay with me for a lifetime.
Lauren is equally grateful for the support of her classmates, who became an extended family throughout her time at UHart.
"They stayed up late helping me study, waited to see me after exams, and were there every step of the way. They may not have understood every aspect of ROTC or military life, but they cared. They taught me that I wasn't alone."
As she prepares to begin her military nursing career, Lauren already sees the impact of her UHart education in her professional life.
"I've learned to truly listen to people and communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and staff," she says. "UHart taught me professionalism in every aspect of my career, from communication to appearance and leadership."
Among her favorite memories at UHart are the relationships she built with classmates and faculty.
"Being at a smaller university allowed me to form genuine, meaningful friendships and connections with professors," Lauren says. "All of my professors knew my name and were there when I needed them. The friendships I've made will stay with me for a lifetime."
Her advice for future students is simple:
"College is hard no matter what major you choose, but you're never alone. Lean on the people around you who want to see you succeed, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. It may not feel worth it in the moment, but it will help you grow."
With a nursing degree, a commission in the U.S. Air Force, and a passion for serving others, Lauren is ready to make an impact wherever her career takes her.