Achieving my dream, and helping patients along the way

Since I was 18 years old, it was my dream to become an NP— and I was passionate about the course. After working as an emergency department nurse across Canada for eight years, I took the leap to begin my master’s training at UBC. Half way through my first year, I was diagnosed with an adrenal tumor which jolted my career path to a halt. The UBC faculty at the MN-NP program were there alongside me to support me in my treatment and recovery process and they encouraged me to continue striving for my dream. I'm proud to be graduating from the Master in Nursing Nurse Practitioner program at UBC and begin my dream career working with patients across the lifespan as a primary care family nurse practitioner. 

Why did you choose to go into your field of study at UBC?

I aspired to attend UBC as it boasted a robust in-person nurse practitioner training program that promised comprehensive studies in bringing nurses into the family nurse practitioner role. When I applied, I was working in downtown Toronto, and it was my goal to come back to my home province for the in-class instruction at UBC.

What has made your time at UBC memorable?

The MN-NP faculty at UBC were an incredible force in supporting me and encouraging me to fulfil my dreams of becoming an NP. They were relentless in their pursuit of making our experience the best it could be despite the challenges that they all faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the personal challenges I faced with my health. 

What advice would you give a student entering your degree program?

My advice to any student entering the program would be to keep an open mind. Transitioning from an expert registered nurse to a novice nurse practitioner is no easy feat. Keep perspective on your goal and know that it will be a life-long learning process. The UBC faculty is open and encouraging and will walk you through these months of growing. Trust the process!

What are your future plans to make a difference in our world?

My immediate plan for the future is to solidify my knowledge and skills in being a family nurse practitioner. I have always had a passion for giving back to my community, and as an NP, I hope to impact every patient and provider I meet. I also plan to continue pursuing quality improvement to bring the NP role in British Columbia to the forefront of NP practice globally. There is constant innovation in primary care, and I look forward to the impact NPs can generate moving forward.