MCCN RN-BSN Student and Mount Carmel Health System colleague for more than 20 years
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I was inspired to become a nurse when I was 9 years old, my mother had 13 stitches in her head from an accident. My father started to take them out, but she was upset that he was hurting her. She "volun-told" me to do it. I was nervous but got the job done. She said that it did not hurt at all, and I did an excellent job. From there, I wanted to help people without hurting them and have loved taking care of my patients since. I started off as a candy striper in the 90s and loved seeing how the nurses care for their patients. I wanted that knowledge to be able to help, heal, and improve the lives of people.
What is the best thing about Mount Carmel College of Nursing?
The best thing about Mount Carmel College of Nursing is the amazing staff. They have been so kind and patient with me. They truly care about my experience and have been willing to work with me and accommodate the needs of a busy mom. I found the program itself to be easy to navigate and welcoming.
What are your goals for your nursing career?
For my nursing career, I plan to continue taking care of patients. I have been a Mount Carmel employee for 22.5 years. I hope to grow as a nurse and gain as much knowledge as I can to best take care of patients in an acute care setting. I will always be at the bedside (as long as my body can physically handle it) and will continue to enjoy meeting and caring for those in their time of need. I will also continue to collaborate with leadership to give them current perspectives of the bedside nurse and help them to understand the needs of those who may not have found their voice yet as nurses. I hope to continue to be a good charge nurse and preceptor to my colleagues and collaborate effectively with providers and all those who work with patients.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to be patient and proactive. Educate early and frequently. Take advantage of the opportunities that are available to you. Do not hesitate to use your voice when you know what is right. Be confident in yourself and always know that you are an example to someone.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in nursing?
Nursing is a career of passion; have a love of others and to yourself. Everyone is someone's baby whether they are 102 or a newborn, treat them gingerly but with a mother's heart. You will have your terrible days where you question everything, and you will have your triumphant days where life is amazing. Leave your home life at home when you enter the doors of nursing and leave your work at work when you exit. Nursing changes daily so always be prepared for it. Have faith in the skills you have but receptive to the advice from others. We all have something amazing to bring to the table.