Choosing a career in nursing has been a long-held aspiration for me, ignited in middle school by a passion for helping others and a fascination with life sciences. As I progressed through my nursing program at MCN, I continually discovered how each element was meticulously designed to equip me not just with knowledge, but with the practical skills and empathetic approach essential for a successful nursing career. Looking back, it’s clear how profoundly my experiences at MCN have shaped my readiness to enter the healthcare field.
Experiential Learning: On-Campus Organizations & Community Engagement
My journey began even before intensive clinical work, through engagement in on-campus organizations that fostered crucial interpersonal and leadership skills. During my freshman and sophomore years, College Mentors for Kids became a significant part of my development. Starting as a mentor and manager, I progressed to Vice President of Programming. This role allowed me to work directly with students in the Bloomington School District, sharing insights into college life and encouraging their aspirations for higher education. This experience was incredibly rewarding, particularly given my career interests lie in pediatrics. It taught me how to communicate effectively with young individuals, understand their needs, and become a supportive figure – skills directly transferable to patient care.
Furthering my commitment to community engagement and honing my communication skills, I also work at the Center for Civic Engagement at ISU. As a Deliberative Dialogue facilitator and student administrative assistant, I wear two hats. In my administrative role, I assist fellow students in finding volunteer opportunities and encourage political engagement, fostering a sense of civic responsibility. As a facilitator, I guide classes and groups through discussions on complex and often controversial societal topics. This has been invaluable in teaching me to navigate diverse perspectives, facilitate constructive conversations, and understand different viewpoints – all essential in a healthcare setting where you interact with individuals from all walks of life.
Practical Skills & Clinical Readiness
The academic rigor and hands-on experiences within the MCN nursing program truly bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The coursework is robust, providing a strong foundation in nursing principles. However, it was the simulation lab and clinical experiences that solidified my confidence and competence. MCN provides countless opportunities for hands-on learning, which, in my opinion, is the most effective approach in nursing education. These experiences are not just educational; they are, as I see them, priceless in preparing us for the realities of patient care.
One class that stands out as particularly impactful is Health Assessment. This course was a turning point for me. For the first time, I truly felt like a nurse. The laboratory setting provided a safe space to practice and learn the fundamental skills I had always observed nurses using when I was a patient myself. It was in this class that many abstract concepts became tangible skills, building a strong practical foundation.
Looking ahead, I am eager to further apply my classroom and clinical knowledge in a real-world setting. This summer, I plan to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a hospital in my hometown of Naperville. This opportunity will allow me to immerse myself in the hospital environment, work directly with patients, and further refine the skills I’ve developed at ISU.
Career Aspirations and Program Alignment
My career aspirations are firmly set on pediatric nursing, specifically within the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). This specialization aligns perfectly with my passion for working with children and my desire to provide critical care in demanding situations. Looking even further into the future, I aspire to obtain a Doctorate in Nurse Practitioner, specializing in immediate care pediatrics. This advanced degree will enable me to expand my scope of practice, take on greater responsibility in patient management, and further contribute to the field of pediatric healthcare.
The MCN program has been instrumental in solidifying these career goals and providing me with the necessary tools to achieve them. The curriculum is structured to not only impart knowledge but also to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability – qualities that are paramount in critical care settings like the PICU.
Personal Growth and Advice
Nursing school is undeniably challenging. It demands a significant commitment, both academically and emotionally. If I could offer advice to my freshman self just starting this journey, it would be simple: “breathe.” Nursing school can feel overwhelming at times, but taking it one day at a time is crucial. The journey is demanding, but it is also incredibly rewarding. The friendships forged and memories created along the way provide immense support and motivation, especially during those inevitable hard days.
The Essence of Nursing
Ultimately, being a nurse is deeply personal for me. It’s about providing compassionate care and treating each patient as if they were a member of my own family. We are entrusted with patients during vulnerable times, often at their lowest points, and this is a responsibility I hold with immense respect. It is an honor to be in a position to care for others, to offer comfort, and to make a positive impact on their lives. This sense of purpose, instilled and nurtured throughout my time at MCN, is what truly defines my understanding of what it means to be a nurse and how prepared I am to embrace this calling.
