From Jordan to CCI
For Dina Qahoush, nursing has always been connected to example, perseverance, and the opportunity to help others.
Now a Clinical Coordinator and nursing faculty member at California Career Institute, Dina supports Vocational Nursing students as they progress through their education, strengthen their confidence, and prepare for the responsibilities of patient care.
Her own nursing journey began in Jordan, where she was inspired by her uncle, a registered nurse she looked up to as a model of professional success.
“He was the first successful story I saw as an RN,” Dina says. “I was always looking up to him and wanted to become a successful nurse like him.”
A New Beginning in a New Country
Dina was born and raised in Jordan, where she completed her nursing education and worked as a registered nurse for three years. She later moved to the United States and began the process of continuing her nursing career in a new country.
That transition brought several challenges at once. She was preparing for a board examination while adjusting to a new language, culture, and way of life, all while living away from her family.
“At that point, I thought it was impossible,” she recalls. “But now, when I look back, it is something that passed. Once you start, things are not always as hard as you imagined before you began.”
That experience continues to shape the way Dina encourages students today, especially when they feel overwhelmed. “We have all been through a tough time, and at some point you may feel close to giving up,” she says. “Just start. After you start, it becomes easier.”
Supporting Students From Beginning to End
What Dina enjoys most about working with Vocational Nursing students is seeing how much they can grow over the course of the program. She notices changes not only in their knowledge, but also in their confidence, communication, and professionalism.
“When you receive them in the beginning and see them at the end, they can become totally different,” she says. “Their confidence, the way they talk, everything about them changes.”
Attendance, communication, and accountability are especially important in a program of this scope. The current catalog identifies the Vocational Nursing Program as a 1,574-clock-hour program delivered through Instructional Distance Learning, on-campus lab sessions, and clinical training in healthcare facilities.
“I support students from the beginning to the end,” Dina says. “If students are having challenges, we work with them so they can understand expectations and continue moving forward within the program requirements.”
Commitment, Consistency, and Communication
When asked what qualities help Vocational Nursing students grow, Dina’s answer is simple: commitment and a willingness to learn. She also recommends building a consistent study routine early.
“If a student commits to studying every day for one or two hours, it will pay off,” she says.
Professionalism, in her view, begins with respect. It also includes attending class, communicating with instructors and school staff, reporting emergencies or absences, and speaking up when a concern needs to be addressed.
“Feel free to reach out and communicate,” she says. “You may help make something better for yourself, your classmates, or future students.”
That same approach applies to feedback. Dina encourages students not to ignore concerns or allow frustration to build. Instead, she advises them to ask questions, discuss feedback directly, and understand how school policies connect to their education.
Making the Most of Clinical Learning
Dina encourages students to take an active role in clinical education by looking for opportunities to observe, participate, and ask questions.
“They have to be willing to learn,” she says. “They should ask the nurse or instructor, ‘Can I watch? Can I help?’ They have to take initiative when it comes to their learning in clinical.”
She understands that students may sometimes feel unsure in a busy clinical environment. As a former nursing student, Dina remembers what it was like to worry that she was slowing someone down or getting in the way. Today, she tries to make students feel welcomed and encouraged while still helping them understand the expectations of the clinical setting.
A Moment That Made a Difference
One of Dina’s proudest experiences involved a student who had accumulated missed hours because of illness and was facing termination for substandard attendance. The student felt discouraged and was considering giving up.
After reviewing the circumstances, Dina met with her, helped develop a make-up schedule, and supported her through the appeal process. The student was able to continue and later completed the required hours.
“She sent me an email and thanked me for supporting her during that difficult time,” Dina recalls. “Those are the situations that make it worth it.”
Life Beyond CCI
Outside of work, Dina enjoys going to the beach, watching movies, and reading books focused on self-improvement. One of her favorites is Atomic Habits, a book she appreciates for its message about the long-term impact of small, consistent actions.
“It makes you think about the tiny things you do every day and the big impact they can have by the end of the year,” she says.
Students may also be surprised to learn that Dina has gone skydiving. “I like to try new things,” she says. “I am very adventurous.”
Encouragement for Future Nursing Students
For anyone considering Vocational Nursing education, Dina recommends approaching the decision with realistic expectations, strong time-management skills, and a willingness to stay committed.
She is also honest that the program requires focus. Students may be balancing school with work, family, and other responsibilities, but consistent effort can make a meaningful difference. Her message reflects the same lesson that carried her through her own transition from Jordan to the United States:
“Something may feel very difficult before you begin. Once you start, keep going.”
California Career Institute is proud to recognize Dina Qahoush for the care, encouragement, and accountability she brings to the student experience.
