Bermuda College students are one step closer to becoming nurses after completing their associate degrees in nursing.

Eight were recognised at a pinning ceremony marking the transition from student to professional practice during Nurses Month.

They are the first group to graduate after the college’s nursing programme was recognised last year by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

A statement said the cohort represented “another group of locally trained graduates preparing to enter a profession facing continued staffing pressures in Bermuda”.

The graduates — Matisse Bascome, Jade Smith, Elizabeth Bento, Christopher Trott, Faheemah Scraders, Abriana Thomas, China Nisbett and Stephanie Fleming — can now prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination, which they must pass in order to practise as registered nurses.

Mr Bascome said the programme was “difficult and emotionally challenging — you are taking care of somebody and pouring a lot out of your cup”.

“If your cup is not full, there is nothing to pour out.”

He hopes to specialise in mental health, adding: “I work at the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute and I can see how our community is affected; that keeps me motivated.”

Mr Trott, who encouraged others to go into nursing, said the nursing programme strengthened his commitment to healthcare.

“It was intense and lengthy, but I came out with a more developed character and a much greater appreciation of the medical industry.

“Health is wealth — there is a shortage of nurses and there is nothing better than helping your fellow man.”

Renee Faulcon, head of the college Division of Nursing and Allied Health, said: “This is one of those moments when we celebrate the students successfully moving from a fundamental level to achieving the knowledge and skills for entry-level practice.”

She added: “Nursing is a wonderful career. You can start in one area and branch out into the community, health and wellness, specialist care or further study.

“It is such a rewarding experience to be a nurse.”