A lot of people ask me why I want to be a nurse. Most people assume since I live in Rochester, with the Mayo Clinic, that it's a smart idea to get into the career. Some assume it's because my mother is a nurse and I'm following in her footsteps. Others assumed it is because it's good money. Not the case! I realized that I have a huge passion for helping others. I don't care about the location, money, or the fact that my mother is a nurse. I have a genuine passion.
It took me a couple years of college to actually figure out what I wanted to do. I first went into Physical Therapy. When I was about to apply for the program, they changed it to a doctorate. I did NOT want to be in school for 8 years! So I did some soul searching. ;)
I shadowed my mom at Olmsted Medical, and I had a blast. She's a nurse on the Medical/Surgical unit. I was there for 8 hours chasing her around. I then started to work at Sunrise Cottages. I took care of elderly people with Alzheimer's and Dementia. I finally realized that I have a passion for helping people. It's an amazing and rewarding experience. Though my job at Sunrise was sometimes very frustrating, I left my work day feeling good about myself. I became very attached to my residents. It was like having a cottage full of grandparents! Since that job, I've become very sure with my decision on becoming a nurse. I love people. I love meeting new people. I adore helping others in need.
I'm still not sure what type of nursing I would like to specialize in. I'm sure that will come when I'm doing clinicals in each area. I'm waiting to hear back from the program and am crossing my fingers that I get in. I'm ready to start a new chapter in my life. :)
