SWC News Center
SWC Vocational Nursing Graduate Celebrates National #1 Ranking and the Journey That Shaped Her
By Ko Inouye - April 25, 2025
When Angela Castellón graduated from Southwestern College’s (SWC) Vocational Nursing (VN) program, she already knew she was part of something special. But the latest rankings have added even more pride to her accomplishment.
“It feels incredibly rewarding and an honor to be a graduate of a Vocational Nursing program that has been #1 in the U.S. in four of the past five years,” Castellón stated.
According to the latest data from PracticalNursing.org, SWC’s VN program ranked:
- #1 in California and the U.S. in 2022–2023
- #1 in California and the U.S. in 2020–2021
- #1 in California and the U.S. in 2019–2020
- Top 20 in California in 2021–2022
These rankings came to light as faculty prepared for the program’s five-year approval visit with the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians.
“I was totally unaware of our U.S. ranking until we began preparing for the state approval visit,” said Samantha Girard, Senior Program Director for the Nursing & Health Occupations program. “I’m speechless other than to say that I am so proud of our faculty and students for consistently striving for excellence!”
For Castellón, the impact of the program is deeply personal. Her journey into healthcare began as a curious child trying to comfort her injured sister. That moment sparked a lifelong desire to help others. After high school, she enrolled in a medical assistant program. But it was working alongside nurses that solidified her decision: she wanted to be a nurse.
“All my older siblings attended Southwestern at one point, and I’ve always felt a strong sense of belonging here,” Castellón explained. “Being part of a college that reflects the community I grew up in made me feel safe and supported.”
She credits Professor Angelia Monroy for inspiring not only her clinical skills but her confidence as a learner and professional. “She made it safe to ask questions, and that confidence has stuck with me,” Castellón expressed, “Even now, I ask questions and learn from my peers, leaders, and physicians every day. That’s what makes a good nurse.”
Now part of SWC’s Step-Up (Licensed Vocational Nursing to Associates Degree in Nursing (LVN-ADN)) transition program, Castellón is continuing her education with plans to earn a master’s in nursing education. She declared, “Becoming an LVN was not just a stepping stone—it was the foundation of my career. I’m going to be a better [registered nurse] because I started here.”