Cici Yaaqub opens a new path from UNT Dallas to UNT Health nursing
UNT Health nursing student Cici Yaaqub becomes the first UNT Dallas student to enter the 2+2 nursing pathway while pursuing her goal of becoming the first nurse in her family.
When Cici Yaaqub began studying biology at the University of North Texas at Dallas, she knew she wanted a meaningful career in healthcare. She just had not yet decided what that career would be.
An event hosted by UNT Health Fort Worth at UNT Dallas introduced her to the university’s College of Nursing and helped her find her direction. Now, Yaaqub is the first UNT Dallas student to transition into the nursing program through the universities’ 2+2 pathway.
“I didn’t just want any job,” Yaaqub said. “I wanted something that interested me and that I would enjoy.”
The pathway allows students to complete their foundational coursework at UNT Dallas before continuing their nursing education at UNT Health. For Yaaqub, it offered an opportunity to build on the education she had already received while preparing for the career she wanted.
“One of the main reasons I chose the 2+2 pathway was because I wanted to be the first person from UNT Dallas to attend UNT Health,” she said. “I was able to build a strong foundation at UNT Dallas and transition smoothly into the nursing program.”
Cici Yaaqub practices in hands-on training in the simulation lab.
Yaaqub credits faculty and staff at both universities with making that transition possible. UNT Dallas Associate Professor Yousufuddin and Academic Assistant Dean Jessica Alvarez advocated for her and helped guide her through the process. At UNT Health, Assistant Dean for Student Success Nicki McGee answered her questions and helped her navigate the next steps.
The three remained in contact throughout the process, giving Yaaqub a coordinated support system across both universities.
Cici Yaaqub receives her white coat from UNT Health.
“It is an honor to be the first student in this pathway,” Yaaqub said. “I am proud to set an example for others. It shows future students from UNT Dallas that the pathway works and is possible.”
Her path to nursing was also shaped by a personal goal: becoming the first nurse in her family.
Yaaqub has always been interested in healthcare and wanted a profession that would allow her to make a difference in people’s lives. She was drawn to nursing because that difference can take many forms, from helping save a life to simply showing empathy during a difficult moment.
“Being the first person in my family to become a nurse is truly a privilege,” she said. “I am grateful to have the opportunity to pursue such a rewarding degree.”
Cici Yaaqub receives an award during her time at UNT Dallas.
Nursing school has been both demanding and rewarding. Balancing coursework, clinical experiences and her personal life can be hectic, but Yaaqub remains focused on the future she is building.
After graduation, she plans to take the National Council Licensure Examination and begin working in a hospital. She has not yet chosen a nursing specialty and is keeping an open mind as she learns more about the profession’s many possibilities. After gaining experience as a registered nurse, she hopes to return to school for a master’s degree in nursing.
As the first UNT Dallas student to take this path, Yaaqub hopes her experience will encourage others to follow.
“I am grateful for those who have supported me and motivated me to get to where I am today,” she said.