South University Master of Science in Nursing graduate Roya Asghari first fell in love with healthcare while working in the high-stakes, fast-paced environment of the operating room. She was a surgical technologist at the time. That experience sparked her passion for patient care and inspired her to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at a school in Italy.
“There, I gained not only clinical expertise but also a global perspective on healthcare systems and cultural competence,” she shares. “As a Persian woman studying abroad and navigating diverse cultures, I built resilience and adaptability early in my career.”
Roya has since relocated to the United States, where her resilience and ability to provide culturally sensitive care to diverse populations continue to serve her well.
The MSN FNP Experience at South University
In 2025, Roya earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner from South University online programs. “Selecting South University was among the best choices I’ve made to grow professionally,” she says. “I gained the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. Because of South University, I went into my profession both equipped and caring.”
Roya chose the FNP specialization because it would allow her to care for patients across their lives in both clinical and home health settings. “I was interested in growing my skills in detecting, treating, and heading off diseases in patients,” she explains.
When comparing nursing schools, South University stood out for several reasons. “I picked South University due to its reputation for helping working professionals and for providing flexible, high-quality nursing programs. Because I have many things to do both at work and at home, I needed a place that could help me succeed in school while still being flexible,” she says. “I also chose South University because of its knowledgeable instructors, simple online access, and attention to helping students succeed.”
In the MSN program, Roya’s classes were difficult but useful. In particular, the case studies taught her to think critically, and she appreciated the sense of community among her online classmates and instructors. She knew the people around her cared and were happy to assist.
“On top of their knowledge, the teachers were very supportive and offered help with both school work and finding a career path,” she says. “The layout of the online learning gave me a chance to work and engage with teachers and other students. Most usefully, my clinical practicum allowed me to practice in different environments, making me better able to provide total, high-quality care.”
Career Success as a Nurse & Entrepreneur
Today, Roya runs her own business providing intravenous treatments to patients in their homes across South Florida. She prepares and delivers IV fluids, vitamins, medications, and other infusions while watching for side effects and keeping everything sterile.
“This entrepreneurial venture has allowed me to combine my clinical expertise with business leadership while making healthcare more accessible and comfortable for my community,” she says. “As an FNP, I get to create strong relationships and help people and families manage their own well-being. Some of the best moments in my career have resulted from the difference I’ve made for my patients.”
Roya reviews each patient’s condition before treatment, teaches patients and caregivers about home care, and takes notes on each session. Based on patient progress, she collaborates with doctors and specialists to optimize care plans. Throughout it all, she strives to build trust, improve patient results, and deliver high-quality, personalized care.
“Earning my Master of Science in Nursing made a big difference in my life as well as my career,” Roya says. “The learning I completed has allowed me to act more independently in my medical practice, speak more effectively for my patients, and guide others in my community. On a personal note, it has made me tougher and helped me understand the importance of not giving up.”
Using Her Nursing Education to Give Back
Giving back to her community is a priority for Roya. She participates in community health fairs and wellness clinics, checking blood pressure and offering nutritional advice and general health education. Additionally, she advocates for mental health programs and care that support minorities and new immigrants.
“Both serving in my career and participating in local activities have made me even more determined to give everyone access to healthcare,” she says. “I am committed to healthcare reforms that put access, respect, and control in the hands of every patient.”
It’s also important to Roya to keep growing as a leader in nursing. AANP (American Association of Nurse Practitioners) continuing education helps her stay on top of new developments in the field. She also helps new nurses learn about home care, and she hopes to eventually do more to support the next generation of nurses and nurse practitioners.
Advice for MSN Students
For students at South University following in her footsteps, Roya encourages them to stay focused, have faith in themselves, and know that people around them want to help.
“You may find nursing and advanced practice programs tough, but all the obstacles you overcome are building your compassionate side as a clinician,” she says. “Always remember what first motivated you. Focus on why you started this journey, and you’ll realize all your effort makes a difference in amazing ways.”
Find out if South University could help you grow in your field. Explore our program offerings, including our nursing programs, or request information today.
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Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Clinical/Medical programs have a required in-person clinical, practicum, or externship requirement. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared in 2025.
