I graduated nursing school in May 2008 and started my ICU position in August 2008. Finishing the 12-week orientation and being on my own was exciting; however, I still have an immense amount of information to learn to be an expert in my clinical field.

I wanted to help people in their time of need and vulnerability. I met wonderful advanced nurses who were full of knowledge, expertise, and compassion; their mentorship and guidance helped me make a choice that benefited me as a whole person. Nursing is a profession that lets me interact with people physically, emotionally, and psychologically.

It has been exciting, rewarding, scary, frustrating, and filled with roadblocks and self-discovery. I have found my true potential and strength in the service of others. I have built relationships in a 12-hour shift that have affected my practice in every shift thereafter.

Nursing has given me tools of communication...

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