MCCN Second Degree Accelerated Program BSN Student
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I applied to nursing school back in 2017 at OSU but didn't make the program. When COVID hit in March 2020, I lost my job as a server while I was at The Ohio State University getting my Bachelor of Science in Education degree. I've always had a Catholic, helping spirit. I wanted to help influence kids right before they were sent out into the real world. COVID hit and I ended up doing a good 80% of my student teaching online. Kids changed. I graduated, got into the classroom as a high school teacher, and it was nothing like I thought it would be. It did not take long for me to realize that I was meant for something else.
What is the best thing about Mount Carmel College of Nursing?
I love how caring our professors are at Mount Carmel. With all the students they have, my professors somehow make me feel like they are supporting me and want me to succeed. Coming from OSU, I've been in a class where there were over 900 students. How can your professor give you extra face time should you need it? Mount Carmel does a great job of keeping classes to a manageable size so professors can still give individual attention if/when necessary. The professors also work with your schedule which is nice because times out here can be hectic.
What are your goals for your nursing career?
Travel nursing has been at the front of my mind since I've gotten into nursing. I want to branch out and explore different cultures nationally, and perhaps even internationally. Lately I've been entertaining the thought of going back to become a nurse practitioner after gaining experience.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
There is nothing that you cannot do. You are not special, but neither is anyone else. People will project their insecurities onto you because of their own inabilities; never let this infect your confidence in who you are and the tribulations you have faced and mastered with God. Be kind. You are a student, always.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in nursing?
Nursing is not for the faint of heart, but you will know if it is for you. School demands so much of your time, which is hard because time is the only thing in this life you don't get back. You will have to make sacrifices. You will miss out on events because you are so busy studying. You will experience frustration. But it will be rewarding. If it is your calling, it will be obvious; you will recognize Easter eggs in your daily life and realize the universe is speaking to you. I believe that. At that point, it doesn't matter what course or exam is "hard" or "crazy" because you know regardless, you’ve got to do it. Prepare adequately and see it through.