Anas Ahmed, BSN, RN
Anas is a dedicated nursing professional specializing in psychiatric-mental health care. He began his nursing career in cardiothoracic surgery and transplant, cultivating a passion for addressing opioid use disorder. This interest led him to transition to geriatric psychiatry, where he assumed leadership roles, including charge nurse. During this time, Anas pursued graduate studies to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Toward the conclusion of his master’s program, he served as a clinical instructor for undergraduate nursing students. Anas actively collaborates with the East Asian Languages and Civilizations department to organize stress-relief events for undergraduate students. Anas will commence his PMHNP career as a resident at the Center for Family Guidance Healthcare Network, where he completed most of his clinical rotations. He has been recognized as a 2024 APNA Board of Directors Scholar.
What's your favorite place to eat on campus or in the city?
Gyro carts
What's your favorite Penn perk (e.g. access to museum, ICA, athletics, Arboretum, etc)?
Biopond
What's your favorite place on campus?
Locust walk
What's your favorite Penn activity / hobby outside of class (e.g. on-campus groups, clubs, athletics, volunteering, etc)?
Spending time with friends on campus.
The most memorable moment I've had at Penn Nursing so far is...?
When my professor, classmates, and I shared our family genograms in small groups to reflect on how family patterns impact mental health.
Is there anything that you wish you knew before coming to Penn?
I wish I had explored financial resources more because working to pay for school was not easy, but I made it!
What is something that you really like about your program of study?
My classmates, all of my professors (especially Anita Iyengar and Janan McCormick), and the efforts of the program director Joe Schatz to continuously improve the program.
What's your favorite thing about your cohort and/or the community at Penn?
That we all come from different parts of the country with diverse educational, cultural, and career backgrounds.
What or who has inspired you the most while pursuing your degree, and why?
My patients. Hearing their stories was very inspiring and empowering, motivating me to come to class with energy to learn more so I can advocate for them and make a difference in their future.
What opportunities are you taking advantage of to advance your degree?
Working as a registered nurse, clinical instructor, and being involved on campus.
