Saint Mary’s University proudly celebrates one of its newest achievements in nursing excellence as Charenze Myrrhianee Faith Pinkihan Bahingawan, RN, secures a spot in the Top 10 of the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination. Her story is one of determination, faith, discipline, and a deep commitment to becoming the best nurse she can be, a journey that began the very moment she chose to be a Marian.

For Charence, choosing Saint Mary’s University was choosing a path of proven excellence. “SMU has always been known for producing top-performing nursing graduates. The sight of its consistent high passing rates and how it remains one of the top-performing schools in the PNLE showed me that SMU truly provides the environment where students grow, excel, and make history,” she shared. Beyond reputation, she was drawn to the university’s core values: excellence, innovation, communion, and service. “I knew I wouldn’t just learn nursing skills; I would be formed to care for patients holistically and responsibly.”

Throughout her time at SMU, Charenze was a product of holistic and transformative nursing education. She described it as an experience strengthened by dedicated mentors, diverse clinical exposures, and a supportive academic community. “The faculty were dedicated mentors. I was challenged academically while still being allowed to thrive personally and professionally. The rigorous training and hands-on experiences prepared me for real-world practice and gave me confidence in who I would become as a nurse.”

But her journey to the top wasn’t exactly smooth. Charenze was very open about how her review journey was flawed. “I wasn’t the most consistent reviewer. I lost motivation, skipped sessions, and knew I could’ve done better.” And instead of allowing herself to be defined by setbacks, she’d reset and rebuild. She reminded herself of the people who did believe in her and the future she wanted to create-to be the best nurse for those who needed her care. Every time procrastination crept in, she would whisper to herself, “Hindi pwede, magtatop pa tayo.” Slowly but surely, she showed up every day, creates a study routine that works for her, and surrounds herself with people who encourage her to keep moving forward.

Now, a Marian nurse who carves her name into the Top 10, Charenze says with a smile, “Welcome to the wild, wonderful, and sometimes chaotic world of nursing!” She encouraged students: embrace the hard exams that seem impossible, the tide of clinical duties that feels overwhelming, for these are moments when strong and compassionate nurses are made. Never compare themselves to others, ask questions freely, learn in ways that suit them best.

For those who dream to become topnotchers themselves, she shares an inspiring formula: “Do 100 practice questions a day (500 if you can on free days), not to memorize answers but to learn how to think strategically. The PNLE is not just a test of memory but of your competence and safety as a nurse. Think critically, justify your choices, and most importantly, pray. Confidence is not arrogance; it’s knowing you prepared with purpose.”

Above all, she encourages students to always circle back to their why. “Do it out of love and for love. Nursing is hard but also one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. You’ll grow, laugh, cry-a lot-and one day you’ll say, ‘Wow… I actually did that.’” And with her signature warmth, she adds: “Keep going, keep learning, keep laughing — and drink water. Hydration is important.”

Charenze Myrrhianee Faith Pinkihan Bahingawan stands as a testament to what Marian nurses can achieve: excellence built on resilience, compassion, and unwavering faith. Her story is not only about celebrating a topnotcher; it is a celebration of the spirit of Marian that continually lifts up communities, inspires future nurses, and lives up to the tradition of Saint Mary’s University.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being
SDG 4: Quality Education

Written by: Demie Jean W. Echavaria, MNS PRO