“You try, you fail. You try, you fail. But the only true failure is when you stop trying”. I have always aspired to be a nurse, but had to take the non-traditional route after a backup of not being accepted into the professional sequence of the nursing program in undergraduate. I changed my major to psychology, which was formerly my minor, in order to graduate early and pursue nursing as a second degree. I am now in my first semester of the accelerated second degree nursing program at Grand Valley State, but because it’s a second bachelor’s degree, federal funding options are very limited. This leaves the large majority of the cost on me personally and as a result I’ve had to take our loans so and scholarships I receive during the sequence of the program would help immensely with lessening the financial burden of my education. I have always wanted to be a nurse because a nurse is the first profession I can think of when it comes to the word “caregiver” which is something I believe I am and always have been. I know nursing is more than a science, but an art, and I bring forth the human compassion and empathy component that can’t be taught to other students. Upon graduating with my BSN, I plan to begin applying to graduate programs with the ultimate goal of becoming a CNM/FNP. If I am not accepted to any schools following graduation, my follow up plan would be to look for a job as an RN in either labor and delivery or primary care. I am interested in these healthcare specialties specifically because of my life experience and have always had an interest in holistic health and primary care, but also more narrowly women’s health. The University of Michigan offers a combine CNM/FNP program in which you can obtain either your MSN or DNP in both specialties in 3-4 years. I plan to apply to U of M in hopes of getting certified in both specialties in a synchronous format. However, if that does not work out, I have looked at other programs and post-graduate certifications. Upon completing my graduate education, my hopes would be to start a career working in both a primary care office and birthing center/hospital. While practicing as a clinician, I aspire to teach and hopefully be a preceptor for nursing students or become affiliate faculty at a college or university to educate students and share my expertise and knowledge.

1. meditation 2. pet animals 3. go for a walk 4. dip face in bowl of water 5. nap. always.