Serving Others, Committing to Care

What began as a desire to help others has grown into a fulfilling nursing career for Julie Arnold, a WVU School of Nursing alumna now serving patients in the cardiovascular intensive care unit at WVU Medicine’s J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital.

Arnold, who also serves in the West Virginia National Guard, said her journey to nursing was rooted in compassion and a lifelong commitment to service.

“I always knew I wanted to help,” Arnold said. “At first, I thought I wanted to be a veterinarian, but over time, I realized helping people was what truly mattered most to me.”

During her time at the WVU School of Nursing, Arnold said her senior year community field placement played a key role in shaping her path. The experience allowed her to discover what areas of nursing she loved most and which ones best aligned with her goals.

“All of the classes and clinicals prepared me for real-world nursing,” she said. “The faculty were always there to help and guide me through the transition from student to professional.”

Now a nurse in the CVICU, Arnold provides care for patients facing critical heart conditions; a role that combines her medical expertise with her natural empathy.

“I love caring for my patients, but I also love helping their families,” she said. “It’s rewarding to be there for them during some of the hardest moments.”

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Arnold was recently nominated for two DAISY Awards, national honors that recognize exceptional nurses for their compassion and patient-centered care.

“I was so excited and honored when I found out,” she said. “It means a lot to know that my patients and their families appreciate the care I give.”

Arnold credits her time in the National Guard with strengthening her sense of purpose and resilience, qualities that continue to guide her in nursing.

“My service helped me realize that I want to keep helping people, no matter where I am,” she said.

Her advice to current nursing students is simple but powerful: “Advocate for yourself, advocate for your patients, and never stop learning.”