What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing? 

What inspired me to pursue a career in nursing was my Nana Monica. When I was younger she worked as a nurse (and still does today) and she showed me dedication for nursing, and that inspired me at a young age. I was impressed with the way she cared for others. There would be days my Nana would be tired, but that never stopped her from showing up to the next shift and still pouring that dedication and commitment she had into her patients and job and that inspired me the most. 

Why did you choose UNI’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program? 

I chose this program because it was important for me to go to school that was close to home, in order to save money. I applied to the UNI Nursing program, just because it was new and I had already heard great things about it. The moment I was accepted, I was automatically greeted by Dr. Nancy Kertz and she was so excited to have me in the program, getting that reaction from Dr. Kertz definitely helped me know that this was the right program for me. The faculty also welcomed me with open arms and still to this day makes sure that if there is anything that I need I can come to them and they will always help me. 

What have been some of your favorite parts of the program so far? 

My favorite part of the program so far would be, being able to make a connection with my classmates, and faculty 

What are you most excited to experience or accomplish next?

I am most excited to experience clinicals, the last 2 semesters have prepared us for this moment and I am excited to apply everything we have been working on into real clinical settings. 

Have you had any healthcare experience outside the program — before or during your time at UNI? How has it influenced your nursing journey or your experience in the program so far? 

I work as a CNA outside of the program and it definitely has put me in a position where it makes me want my nursing degree more because I am a passionate CNA and I care about my patients 100%. I feel like being a CNA has helped me while being in the program because you can connect so many things to work and to your patients and say "I've seen that condition before” and be able to understand what your patients are really going through. 

Is there a professor or mentor who has made a difference in your nursing journey so far? 

Professor Allison Heit has been a GREAT help to me during my time in the program. She has mentored me during my 2nd semester of the program and that has helped my performance in the program improve. 

What are your career goals or dreams for the future of your nursing career? 

Once I obtain my BSN I would love to work in the Labor and Delivery unit and possibly become a lactation consultant. After i gain some experience I would like to go back to school to obtain my DNP-Midwifery. My overall goal is to one day work at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. 

What advice would you give to students who are thinking about studying nursing at UNI? 

Advice I would give students who are thinking about studying nursing at UNI is to understand why you want this for yourself, I promise when times get hard, you will remember why you wanted to pursue nursing. And it will make you want to go harder than ever before.