The desire to become a nurse began in my high school days

The desire to become a nurse began in my high school days. As the daughter of two parents in the medical field, it was instilled in me from a young age to help others in time of need. After spending time in a hospital setting during family members’ health concerns, I found the selflessness and humility of the nurses highly commendable and decided a career in nursing was how I could make a difference in other’s lives. After acceptance into nursing school and numerous long hours of studying, I am proud to have graduated magna cum laude from the University of Louisville. While in school I maintained my GPA, received scholarships and awards, volunteered in the community, and participated in multiple student organizations. My first position as a Registered Nurse was in a busy Operating Room in Louisville, KY. While in this role I found endless ways to get involved in the hospital, including unit-based council member, education council member, and a member of multiple taskforces. I welcomed leadership roles as a frequent relief charge nurse and found enjoyment as an educator while precepting new employees. I also was a member of the Professional Nurse Contribution Program for two years, providing evidence-based practice research and data analysis for the hospital. One of my proudest accomplishments came as a surprise when I was nominated as a nurse of the year finalist, becoming one of seven nurses in the hospital chosen for overall outstanding nursing care and involvement.I have an established record of excellence and will continue to challenge myself at East Tennessee State University. The process of furthering my education will impact my life as a nurse practitioner, and more importantly, provide a significant impact to my patients, the community, and the profession of nursing. I am thankful for my experiences as a nurse thus far and am eager to continue to build a future doing something that I love. As a family nurse practitioner, I will provide high quality patient centered care at all times. Nursing is more than a job, it is a role which comes with an intense responsibility to help others at their most vulnerable times in life.