After a journey spanning continents and careers, Chevy Cargol, a recent graduate of George Washington University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program and recipient of his cohort’s DAISY Award, has found his calling as a Clinical Oncology Nurse at MedStar Hospital Center in Washington, DC. His story is one of determination, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Growing up in Spain, Cargol's path to nursing was not a direct one. Initially, he pursued a career as a Spanish teacher in public schools for 20 years after coming to the US on a basketball scholarship. However, his experiences both in his homeland and in the United States shaped his desire to address healthcare disparities. "Throughout my life, I have seen the inequalities that exist in healthcare in the US and the rest of the world, and I wanted to play a role in closing that gap," Cargol shared.
"Throughout my life, I have seen the inequalities that exist in healthcare in the US and the rest of the world, and I wanted to play a role in closing that gap."
Supported by the W2 program, a partnership between GW Nursing and MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Cargol received a scholarship that eased his financial burden and helped set him up for success. "The W2 scholarship allowed me to do a lot of my clinicals at MedStar Hospital Center and gain a lot of good experiences," he noted.
Cargol's decision to specialize in oncology and hematology stemmed from his desire to support patients facing challenging diagnoses. "I became a nurse to change the world one patient and one conversation at a time," he expressed. "I love being in a patient’s room and interacting with them. It is a sacred space for me and that’s what excites me the most."
Professionally, Cargol is proud of his successful transition from educator to nurse and his dedication to the rigorous GW Nursing program. Personally, he cherishes his family—his wife, Jess, and their daughter, Emma—who provided unwavering support during his nursing school journey.
For aspiring nurses, Cargol offers sage advice: "Follow the inner voice you have within you and pursue your dreams. Find your tribe at school, use the resources they have, and seek help from those wonderful professors."
As Chevy Cargol embarks on his career as a Clinical Oncology Nurse, his story serves as an inspiration to those who dare to pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare. With his dedication and compassion, he is poised to make a difference in the lives of his patients and contribute to closing the gap in healthcare disparities.