Ms Bennett, speaking to Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), said she is proud of the achievement, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic also made studying and university challenging.

Challenging year with pandemic

“It was very challenging going from fact to face classes to just strictly online, it was very challenging… at one point it did take a toll on me, but with God’s help and with supportive people especially to my mom and teachers that were there… I managed to get through it,” she said.

Bennett, who is originally from Jamaica but had the majority of her schooling in the VI, said the award shows that she knows how to care for her patients with or without medications, as well as having a good understanding of the field.

Bennett said; however, that while she has big dreams of returning to the VI to help revolutionise the nursing field as a big gesture of thanks, the plan right now is to further her education and studies in midwifery.

“It is something that I am very passionate about since I was a little girl."

Latasiha thanked her mum Rochelle C.M Weir, teachers for her support towards her becoming a nurse.

A need to help

Bennett shared that she was convinced early that the medical profession is where she is meant to be.

“I want to help people because I know what it's like wanting someone to help you. I just think this is my calling, what I love. It is what I want to do so I’m going to pursue it,” she said.

Latasiha A. Bennett, who thanked her mum Rochelle C.M. Weir and teachers for their support, is scheduled to graduate from the University of the Virgin Islands in May 2022.