Gabriel Fonarov
Gabriel Fonarov, a Freshman Direct Admit student, is driven by a deep passion for service and a commitment to encouraging other students to become more involved in nursing education.
Set to graduate with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing in May 2028, Gabriel serves as president of the College of Nursing’s Student Council, where he leads efforts to strengthen communication between nursing students and faculty.
“The Student Council offers a chance for student voices to be heard,” he said. “We help our peers feel more engaged in their education by providing a platform for open dialogue with their instructors.”
Nursing runs in Gabriel’s family, a tradition he proudly continues. “It’s a calling that my parents and many of my relatives have answered, and I’ve come to see it as my own,” Gabriel shared. “It mirrors my current role in the Student Council as a position to advocate and care for the people around me.”
His path to nursing was shaped early on by the influence of high school teachers and coaches, many of whom were military veterans. Gabriel credits them with teaching him the value of integrity and professionalism.
“That sense of service hasn’t left me, and I always feel compelled to give back to my community, which has given me the tools to succeed in life,” he stated.
Gabriel has been awarded scholarships from the American Legion and Florida Bright Futures. During his studies, he volunteered with Boca Helping Hands, assisting with food packaging and distribution.
Looking ahead, Gabriel sees his BSN as a launching pad for future professional and academic growth. He plans to begin his nursing career in critical care before pursuing advanced fields such as trauma, transplant or flight nursing. He is also considering additional courses in nursing or medicine, with long-term interests in both clinical practice and health care research.
“I want to understand not only how to care for individual patients, but also how to navigate and improve the health care system as a whole,” Gabriel shared.