Jasmine Roberts, a nursing student on UVI’s Albert A. Sheen Campus, is making strides in the medical field beyond the Territory. This summer, she was selected for the highly competitive Cleveland Clinic Nurse Associate Externship Program—becoming the only participant from the Caribbean among 150 externs and the first UVI student ever accepted.
Born and raised on St. Croix, Roberts began her undergraduate studies in pre-med biology at the University of California Riverside before earning a bachelor’s degree from Barry University in 2016. She went on to earn a master’s in marine biology from Nova Southeastern University and a Master of Public Health from Liberty University. She also became a certified phlebotomist and gained experience as a medical assistant and telescriber in numerous specialties.
Roberts returned to St. Croix in 2020 and joined UVI’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in 2024. She will complete the two-and-a-half-year program and graduate in May 2026.
While interning at Juan Luis Hospital, Roberts was encouraged by experienced nurses to seek opportunities beyond the island. “I love to travel and wanted to broaden my horizons and gain exposure to different environments, tools and resources,” she said.
Her 10-week externship at the Cleveland Clinic includes rotations through medical-surgical, pediatric intermediate care, cardiac thoracic ICU, operating room, hospice and orthopedic units.
“The experience has been amazing,” Roberts said. “It’s opened my eyes to different specialties, and while I haven’t chosen one yet, I know I want to become a nurse practitioner.”
Roberts credits UVI and her work experience with preparing her for success. “Being able to go to the beach or hanging out with loved ones after a long day of studying or clinical work—it’s the balance I need.”