BSN Program Student
What inspired you to become a nurse?
There are many events in my life that led me to nursing. When I was fourteen, my grandmother fell and broke her hip. It was a life-changing experience for her and me. It felt unusual knowing that Grandma wasn't at her house like normal. I remember I would finish all of my homework during my recess at school. I was determined to see her almost every day. I became more grateful that Grandma was still alive. Not long after she arrived home, my Grandfather was going to drive to Illinois to pick up my aunt so she can take care of Grandma so I could focus on my schoolwork. Instead of riding with Grandpa for the trip, I wanted to stay and take care of Grandma to make sure she wouldn’t fall again. It was the most fun I ever had. I planned some activities for us to do and we baked a cake. I was truly happy taking care of Grandma, and I think it strengthened our bond. Grandma enjoyed seeing me when I came over to help and started suggesting that I consider nursing for a career. Eventually, I decided nursing was my calling and was very eager with this choice. I started taking nursing-related classes, as well as college credit classes, while still in high school and I knew I wanted to learn more and ventured to nursing school. To this day, I still visit Grandma and care for her. Every time she sees me, she says: "I always knew you'd make a great nurse" and I always reply with a hug.
What is the best thing about Mount Carmel College of Nursing?
What caught my eye when searching for a college, was that MCCN was a small school. I liked that students don't need to walk to different buildings to get to a class. I also am enjoying the community here. All the students care for each other, and we talk to each other like we are all friends. This is a drama-free school. The peer tutors and supplemental instructors do a phenomenal job at explaining the root of difficult subjects, and I really look up to them. I must mention that the staff at MCCN are very friendly. They are happy to help students and welcome us into their office with open arms. Everyone here understands that nursing school isn't easy, and they all are here to watch you succeed. I think Florence Nightingale would be proud of our school for how close of a community we are and for how caring we are for each other.
What are your goals for your nursing career?
My first plan is to at least obtain my BSN. I hope to eventually work for Mount Carmel Health. While I still have lots to learn, nursing specialties I am considering are oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, and geriatrics. I am keeping my options open and am always interested in learning something new. Depending on how successful I am in completing my BSN program, I may consider coming back to obtain a master’s degree to either become an instructor or to become a geriatric nurse practitioner.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
The best advice I would tell myself is to take a deep breath and to be grateful for how far I've come. Remember that God is here, and he put me on this earth for a reason. While I may not know what the reason is, I can try different opportunities to see what it is. If something goes wrong, I must take a second to re-evaluate the situation and try again. Patience is key.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in nursing?
Over the time that I have been here so far, I have seen a lot of students give up on their dreams. You are here because your calling is to care for others. Nursing school was never meant to be simple because the job itself will have its ups and downs. Nursing school helps us to gain the mental strength to tackle the job. I know that some subjects seem like you may never comprehend them but don't be afraid to ask questions and keep trying. Sometimes you have to be a little stubborn in your battles to continue. Whatever you do, don't give up on your dream if you really want it to become your reality. In the end, it will be worth hearing your patients tell you that you are their favorite nurse!