Featured student: Jenna Rutnik
| Name: | Jenna Rutnik |
|---|---|
| School: | Villanova University |
| Hometown: | Nutley, NJ |
| Major: | Nursing |
A 2025 graduate of Nutley High School in Nutley, New Jersey, Jenna will attend Villanova University. Jenna shared that she decided to enroll at Villanova because "after visiting Villanova University on Early Action Admitted Students Day, I instantly fell in love with the beautiful campus and the exceptional nursing program. The classes I observed were led by inspiring professors, and the hands-on simulation labs left a strong impression on me. As an honors student, I’m grateful for the opportunity to take advanced courses like Pathophysiology, which initially sparked my interest in this university. I’m also excited about the variety of graduate programs offered and I look forward to exploring them further."
At Villanova, Jenna will major in Nursing. When asked about her future plans, she shared "I intend to explore various specialties within the nursing field before determining the specific area in which I will ultimately focus. Currently, I am particularly interested in pursuing a career as either a pediatric nurse or a nurse anesthetist. Additionally, I aspire to become a nurse educator in the future, as this role would allow me to combine my passion for teaching with my commitment to patient care."
We asked Jenna:
Why did you choose to attend a Catholic college/university?
I chose to attend a Catholic university because I wanted to be surrounded by others who share the same values as I do. It’s important for me to be in a community of like-minded people who are also committed to continuing their faith into the future.
What aspect of your college/university are you most excited about?
I’m so excited to dive into my nursing major and meet new people. I can’t wait to live on campus and see Villanova’s values—Veritas, Unitas, Caritas—come to life.
What are your hobbies?
I have always loved to dance and I will continue to pursue this passion as a member of Villanova University’s Dance Team. In high school, I enjoyed taking on leadership roles as Senior Manager of Nutley’s Varsity Ice Hockey team and as Secretary of the National Italian Honors Society. Outside of academics and extracurriculars, I find joy in reading and baking—activities that help me relax, express creativity, and explore new ideas.
What one tip about the college application process would you share with seniors or their parents?
Work hard and don’t stop until you achieve your goals. Remember to stay organized, especially with your supplemental essays and prompts. You’ll use them throughout senior year—not only for college applications but later for scholarship applications as well. Keep track of your deadlines, use a calendar, and make a to-do list that helps you prioritize what needs to get done.
What is one fun fact about you?
I’ve had a passion for dance since I was four years old and have been dancing competitively for nearly ten years. I am excited to have the opportunity to be a member of Villanova University’s Division I Dance Team in the upcoming season.
At Villanova, Jenna will major in Nursing. When asked about her future plans, she shared "I intend to explore various specialties within the nursing field before determining the specific area in which I will ultimately focus. Currently, I am particularly interested in pursuing a career as either a pediatric nurse or a nurse anesthetist. Additionally, I aspire to become a nurse educator in the future, as this role would allow me to combine my passion for teaching with my commitment to patient care."
We asked Jenna:
Why did you choose to attend a Catholic college/university?
I chose to attend a Catholic university because I wanted to be surrounded by others who share the same values as I do. It’s important for me to be in a community of like-minded people who are also committed to continuing their faith into the future.
What aspect of your college/university are you most excited about?
I’m so excited to dive into my nursing major and meet new people. I can’t wait to live on campus and see Villanova’s values—Veritas, Unitas, Caritas—come to life.
What are your hobbies?
I have always loved to dance and I will continue to pursue this passion as a member of Villanova University’s Dance Team. In high school, I enjoyed taking on leadership roles as Senior Manager of Nutley’s Varsity Ice Hockey team and as Secretary of the National Italian Honors Society. Outside of academics and extracurriculars, I find joy in reading and baking—activities that help me relax, express creativity, and explore new ideas.
What one tip about the college application process would you share with seniors or their parents?
Work hard and don’t stop until you achieve your goals. Remember to stay organized, especially with your supplemental essays and prompts. You’ll use them throughout senior year—not only for college applications but later for scholarship applications as well. Keep track of your deadlines, use a calendar, and make a to-do list that helps you prioritize what needs to get done.
What is one fun fact about you?
I’ve had a passion for dance since I was four years old and have been dancing competitively for nearly ten years. I am excited to have the opportunity to be a member of Villanova University’s Division I Dance Team in the upcoming season.