At South University, our graduate nursing programs are designed to help working nurses level up their clinical skills and abilities. In today’s nursing alumni spotlight, we introduce you to three recent grads whose South University education empowered them to jumpstart the next phases of their careers.
Two Nurses Become FNPs After Years in Healthcare Abroad
Viviane Sousa was a nurse in Brazil for over 15 years before coming to the US, including in a Cardiology Intensive Care Unit (ICU). She also held a graduate degree in healthcare management. After relocating to Florida, she earned several certifications and RN licensure. After some time working as an RN, she realized she was ready to further her education again.
“I decided to take a step forward for my patients’ care,” she says. “It’s hard, and it’s uncomfortable, the process of seeking a new and higher level of education and knowledge, but that is the right way to be successful in life.”
Viviane had a friend who graduated from South University. After researching the school, Viviane decided it was right for her as well. She enrolled in the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) through South University, Savannah and graduated in 2025.
Today, she works as an NP at Orlando Health Hospital. “All of the South University faculty and staff are very outstanding professionals who know perfectly how to deal with overwhelmed students,” she says. “I had all the foundations, content, best professors, and sources possible to make my new journey with a solid start. I am so grateful and honored to become an NP in America.”
Carlos Moises Avila Simon found the online MSN FNP program at South University through friends as well. Based on their experiences in the program, he knew it would be right for him too. Carlos was a doctor for more than 20 years in his home country of Cuba, so working his way up in healthcare by becoming a nurse practitioner in the US was a natural fit.
“To improve my practice, I chose this program,” he says. “South University is a special place to learn. The faculty and staff are amazing people.” Since graduating in 2026, Carlos has become the general manager at Clinica Hispana Santa Fe.
An MSN FNP Grad Takes His Education Even Higher
Mario J. Coureaux Masso earned his MSN FNP degree online at South University in 2022. It was a big achievement, but Mario knew he wanted to keep learning and growing.
In particular, Mario knew advancing his education would help him to improve patient outcomes, strengthen his leadership skills, and apply evidence-based practice in primary care and women's health. Eventually, Mario chose to return to South University to earn his Doctor of Nursing Practice, knowing the flexibility of the online program meant he could keep working as a family nurse practitioner in the field.
“South University helped prepare me through evidence-based education, research opportunities, clinical practice experiences, and faculty mentorship. The faculty and staff were supportive, encouraging, and committed to student success,” he shares. “Their guidance and feedback helped me grow both professionally and academically.”
For other nurses balancing work and school, he advises, “Stay organized, manage your time wisely, and never be afraid to ask for help. Consistency, dedication, and perseverance are key to success in graduate school.”
Mario completed his DNP in 2026 and uses his new knowledge and skills in his daily interactions with his co-workers and patients. “As a healthcare professional with many years of clinical experience, completing the DNP program has been a meaningful achievement that strengthened my commitment to improving patient care and lifelong learning,” he says.
Are you ready to level up in nursing? Learn more about our nursing programs today!
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Tell us your alumni success story!
If you’re a grad who wants to share your experiences and career highlights, visit the South University Alumni Site to share your alumni success story.
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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.
Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs, have a required in-person, practicum, or externship. 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 2026.
