Danielle Shuwayhat (in black), Maria Shuwayhat (in white), Baker College Royal Oak Nursing Students
For identical twins Danielle and Maria Shuwayhat, nursing isn’t just a career—it’s a calling they are answering together. Their journey into healthcare was shaped by personal experiences, mutual encouragement, and an unwavering dedication to compassionate patient care.
Danielle, now in her final semester of the Baker College nursing program, was the first to embark on this path. Maria, just one semester behind, credits her sister as the driving force behind her own decision to enter the field. “My sister inspired me to pursue nursing. I watched her care for a family member during a vulnerable time, and seeing the impact of her compassionate care motivated me to want to do the same,” Maria said. “She provided not only physical care but emotional support, and it showed me how profound and meaningful nursing care can be.”
Although they are at different points in their nursing education, their bond keeps them closely connected. Whether studying together at coffee shops, offering words of encouragement, or simply checking in on each other’s progress, their support system is built on trust, understanding, and shared ambition. “I support Maria by reminding her of her strengths and helping her stay confident in her abilities—she’s incredibly intelligent,” Danielle said. Maria adds, “I try to support Danielle by celebrating the small and big achievements together and also reminding her to take breaks and prioritize self-care during busy periods.”
Baker College’s nursing program has provided both with the rigorous training and hands-on experience they need to thrive in the field. Danielle was drawn to the program based on recommendations from past students, while Maria was inspired by the dedication of instructors like Professor Jennifer Fak, whose support and investment in student success stood out even before she officially enrolled.
As they gain real-world experience through clinical rotations, both sisters have found their passion for patient care reaffirmed. Danielle is drawn to Progressive Care and Neuronursing, while Maria is exploring Critical Care, although she remains open to discovering new interests along the way. Regardless of where their careers take them, they share a dream of making a meaningful impact on their patients’ lives—and maybe even working alongside each other in the same hospital one day.
With graduation on the horizon for Danielle, she offers her younger twin one piece of advice: practice positive self-talk, lean on professors for support, and never be afraid to ask for help. For Maria, watching Danielle reach this milestone is both inspiring and motivating—proof that hard work and dedication pay off. “I am so incredibly proud of my sister for reaching this major milestone, and seeing her succeed drives me to continue pushing forward in my own nursing journey. While I still have some way to go, having her as a mentor and source of support makes all the difference, Maria said.
Through long hours of studying, emotional moments, and the challenges of nursing school, one thing remains certain: they are each other’s biggest cheerleaders. “Just like many other experiences we have faced together, this journey has brought us even closer. Going through nursing school means we have someone who truly understands the work that goes into it. Whether that is the long hours, emotional moments, and the challenges faced, we have each other to lean on,” Danielle said. And while Maria may technically be the “older” twin by an hour, Danielle insists she’s the real “older sister” at heart.
As they continue their journey at Baker College, the Shuwayhat twins are shaping their futures and proving that when passion, perseverance, and family come together, anything is possible.
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more about the college of nursing, and and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.