Issy Grushecky

Why do you want to become a nurse?

I originally planned to pursue PA or medical school, but right before my freshman year, I made the decision to switch to nursing. Both of my parents have PhDs and work in research, and growing up around them inspired me to always ask questions, seek answers, and understand the “why” behind things. I realized that the same curiosity could be applied to nursing and even to advancing the profession as a whole.

I have always loved the idea of thorough assessments and putting all the pieces together to understand what a patient needs. More than anything, I see nursing as an honor and a privilege. Being trusted by a complete stranger during one of the most vulnerable times in their life is something I hold close to myself. I want to be there for people when they cannot advocate for themselves or when they may not have a strong support system. I want my patients to know that, during the time I am caring for them, they are not alone.

Why did you want to become an ambassador?

I wanted to become an ambassador because I wanted to give back to a school that has given so much to me. Growing up in Morgantown, WVU has always been a meaningful part of my life, but my time in the School of Nursing has shown me just how much this university has to offer. I have met some of my closest friends, learned from incredible people, and gained an education that has shaped not only my career but who I am as a person. I want prospective students to see WVU for what it truly is beyond what you may see from the outside. The School of Nursing has genuinely changed the trajectory of my life, and I want to encourage others to see a future for themselves here, just as I did.

What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing? 

I would like prospective students to know that the WVU School of Nursing is an environment that is educational, inspiring, and full of people you will be grateful to meet. It has given me some of my best friends while also providing me with a valuable and meaningful education. I am only halfway through my time here, but I can already see how the experiences I have had will shape the rest of my life and my future career. The School of Nursing is a place where you are encouraged to learn, ask questions, and make mistakes. Having instructors who support you through those difficult moments makes it easier to keep going and grow from them. You are surrounded by an environment where learning is encouraged, and that makes the challenges of nursing school feel incredibly worthwhile.

What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?

My best advice is to try it. Nursing is such a rewarding and versatile profession, and there are so many paths you can take beyond working in a hospital. If you are interested, find a way to get involved. Volunteer at a hospital or nursing home, get a job in healthcare, shadow someone, or simply find opportunities to learn more about the profession. Nursing is a career where you will continue learning and growing every day, both throughout school and throughout your career. Nursing school will require a lot of your time and dedication, but it will also introduce you to things you never expected to love. My biggest advice is to appreciate the process. The learning, the challenges, and even the mistakes are all part of becoming the nurse you are meant to be.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Choosing nursing has been one of the most meaningful decisions I have made. I did not grow up knowing exactly what I wanted my career to look like, but I have learned that sometimes the path you did not originally plan for can become the one that fits you best. Nursing has challenged me, encouraged me to grow, and given me a sense of purpose that I am incredibly grateful for. If you are considering nursing, I hope you give yourself the opportunity to explore it. You may be surprised by where it takes you.