In the Spring of 2020, I began the nursing program at Central Alabama Community College. It was there that I became an LPN, followed by completing the Associate Degree in Nursing in May of 2022. 

In the Fall of 2022, I began the RN-BSN program at the University of Auburn School of Nursing. My first courses were NURS-3810 Holistic Pathophysiology and NURS-3840 Health Assessment and Formation of Professional Nursing Practice. Both of the courses laid the foundation for building a solid nursing philosophy. The instructors are invested in the success of their students.

In the Spring of 2023, I completed NURS-3830 Nursing Informatics and Evidence-Based Practice as well as NURS-4830 Leadership and management in Professional Nursing. It is critical for the nurse to know how and where to find factual and relevant information for the care of their patients. I have a much better understanding of the importance of in-depth research for the benefit of the nurse and patient. Technology advancements have assisted with reducing errors in areas such as medication administration, which ultimately assists with safer care for the patient. Although I have been a leader in healthcare for many years, these courses have opened a new world of opportunity to learn better ways to both lead and serve.

In May of 2023 between the Spring and Summer semesters, I traveled with the Auburn School of Nursing to Scotland for a study abroad experience, which both met and exceeded my expectations. It was an amazing opportunity to witness first hand how other cultures and healthcare systems view patient care. 

The 2023 Summer Semester brought new challenges of critical thinking and nurse leadership that have been critical to the development of my nursing career. The learning initiative has largely included preparing the nurse for appropriate education of patients, staff and community. I believe these courses have expeditionally increased my understanding and knowledge of how I directly contribute to the patient population I serve as well as having the understanding of leading a staff to understand the same. The Auburn School of Nursing professors and teaching staff remain a tremendous attribute to my success in the BSN program as they genuinely care about each student and go above and beyond to provide the necessary tools for success.