Embarking on a career in nursing has been a long-held aspiration for me, ignited in middle school by a blend of my passion for helping others and a fascination with life sciences. Choosing the Mennonite College of Nursing (MCN) at ISU to pursue this dream has proven to be an invaluable step in my journey. Reflecting on my experiences as a junior in the program, I can confidently say that MCN has not just taught me about nursing, but has meticulously prepared me to thrive as a nurse in the professional world.
One of the most significant aspects of my preparation has been the rigorous coursework. The curriculum is designed to be both challenging and deeply enriching, providing a robust foundation in the essential knowledge and skills required of a registered nurse. I recall my health assessment class as particularly impactful. It was in this class that the theoretical knowledge truly came to life. Stepping into the laboratory setting, I felt like a nurse for the first time, actively engaging with the very skills I had admired in nurses throughout my life. This hands-on approach to learning, woven throughout the MCN program, bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
Beyond the traditional classroom, MCN’s emphasis on experiential learning through simulation labs has been instrumental in honing my practical skills and critical thinking in a safe, controlled environment. These simulations allow us to apply our knowledge in realistic scenarios, make decisions, and learn from our mistakes without the pressure of a live patient situation. This method of learning has been crucial in building my confidence and competence in performing nursing procedures and responding effectively to various patient needs.
Of course, clinical experiences are the cornerstone of any nursing education, and MCN excels in providing diverse and meaningful opportunities. From my initial clinical rotations to more specialized experiences, each placement has offered invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of nursing care. These experiences have not only allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom and labs but have also exposed me to the emotional and human aspects of nursing. Witnessing firsthand the impact nurses have on patients and their families has solidified my commitment to this career path and instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and empathy.
Looking ahead to my career aspirations, I am eager to begin in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) after graduation. My ultimate goal is to pursue a Doctorate in Nurse Practitioner, specializing in immediate care pediatrics. This ambition is fueled by my experiences and growth within the MCN program. The program has not only equipped me with the necessary clinical skills and knowledge but has also fostered crucial professional qualities such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication – all essential for advanced practice nursing.
For anyone considering embarking on this journey, especially those just starting their nursing program, my advice echoes a lesson I’ve learned throughout my time at MCN: remember to breathe. Nursing school is undoubtedly demanding, and at times, it can feel overwhelming. However, the journey is incredibly rewarding. The support system at MCN, the camaraderie with fellow students, and the passion of the faculty create an environment where challenges are met with resilience and growth. The memories created and the friendships forged along the way are what sustain you through the tougher days, making the entire experience profoundly enriching.
To me, being a nurse transcends being just a profession; it’s a personal commitment to providing compassionate and holistic care. It means treating each patient with the same level of care and respect you would offer a family member. It’s about recognizing the immense trust patients place in us, often during their most vulnerable moments, and honoring that trust with unwavering dedication. The privilege of caring for someone, of making a positive difference in their lives, is what I believe to be the heart of nursing, and it’s a value that has been deeply instilled in me throughout my nursing education at MCN, preparing me not just for a career, but for a calling.
