Student Speaker Profile: Sarah Mullen, Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing Program

For as long as she can remember, nursing has been in the back of Sarah Mullen's mind — a quiet, persistent calling. But it wasn’t until after her son's birth that the calling became a clear conviction. Navigating difficult medical decisions gave her a deeper understanding of the importance of advocacy and compassionate care. “I want to be an advocate for patients, to help them feel heard and empowered about the care they are being given,” she says.

Sarah was chosen as this year’s undergraduate speaker for the 2025 Graduation Ceremony. A Rochester native, Sarah chose the University of Rochester School of Nursing’s Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing (ABSN) program not only for its reputation, but for the opportunity to stay close to home while pursuing her dream. “I saw firsthand the strength of the program when my husband completed it in 2021, and I’ve admired the knowledgeable, compassionate, and skilled nurse he has become as a result.”

Now, as she prepares to graduate, Sarah reflects on the hands-on learning, the lasting connections with classmates, and the faculty who guided her along the way — experiences that have shaped her journey and deepened her passion for nursing. “There’s a real sense of camaraderie and support among us, which has made the intensity of this last year feel a little lighter.”

What made the UR School of Nursing stand out when you were considering continuing your education?

As a Rochester native, I’ve always been aware of the university’s reputation for excellence in both education and healthcare, and that reputation was a strong influence in my decision. The opportunity to pursue an accelerated nursing program at such a highly respected institution without having to uproot my family was incredibly important to me. I saw firsthand the strength of the program when my husband completed it in 2021, and I’ve admired the knowledgeable, compassionate, and skilled nurse he has become as a result. Additionally, the Scholars Program made continuing my education financially possible.

What have you enjoyed the most about your experience at the School of Nursing?

What I’ve enjoyed most about my experience at the School of Nursing has been the people and the hands-on learning. I have loved getting to know the members of my cohort, hearing their personal stories and reasons for pursuing nursing has been inspiring and motivating. There’s a real sense of camaraderie and support among us, which has made the intensity of this last year feel a little lighter. I’ve also truly valued the time spent in the clinical setting. Being able to care for patients and learn directly from experienced, knowledgeable nurses has not only helped me build my skills, but also deepened my understanding of what it means to be a nurse. It’s been both humbling and rewarding, and I’m grateful for every moment.

Which faculty, staff, preceptors or other members of the School community have impacted you in your time here and why?

Ashley Humm, MS, BSN: Professor Humm was always so encouraging and willing to take the time to go over skills in lab. When the amount of information and skills being thrown at us seemed overwhelming she was there to reassure us that we were capable and to keep trying. I am so grateful for her kindness.

Rachel Ngo-Oum, MNE, RN: Professor Ngo-Oum always seems to have a smile on her face. She has a joy for nursing and teaching which is evident. She would remind me that there is no need to memorize if you understand the why. I can always count on her for encouragement.

Sarah Dunstan, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, AGACNP-BC, CEN, TCRN, CCRN-K: Dr. Dunstan was my first clinical instructor. Her energy and passion for nursing was infectious. She always had something exciting to show us and was happy to answer questions and share stories from her own experiences as a new nurse.

Lindsay DeLeo, DNP, MSN, MS, RN, CNL, WHNP-BC, IBCLC: Dr. DeLeo was my OB clinical instructor. She was always willing to answer questions and encouraged us to see and experience as much as possible. Some of the most thought-provoking conversations I had were during our group debriefs.

What are you looking forward to most post-graduation?

After graduation I am looking forward to some time off with my family, welcoming our fourth child in early August and then starting at Strong on the solid organ transplant team in late fall.