Meet Lindsey.
What made you consider nursing as a program of study?
I chose to study nursing because I wanted to challenge myself while also practicing compassion. Nursing is an all encompassing profession that requires knowledge and a dedication to advocacy. There are endless opportunities to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals, families, and communities, and there is something new to learn every day. I was drawn to this profession because I love to learn, and I care passionately.
Did you have an ah-ha moment about wanting to become a nurse?
Once I learned what nursing is, it is the only profession that I ever wanted to do! I can’t remember one specific moment that made me want to become a nurse. However, I do remember times where I saw nurses care for my own family. I remember thinking that I hope to one day have the knowledge and patience to do the same thing. My mom is a nurse, and she instilled compassion in me at a young age as I watched her care for family.
Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?
The WVU School of Nursing offers a well-rounded education and trains nurses to serve in big cities and rural communities. I decided to come to WVU because of the available clinical experiences at Ruby Memorial Hospital, a Level One Trauma Center and flagship hospital of WVU Medicine and West Virginia. My dad attended WVU and so I grew up attending sports events in Morgantown all the time. As I grew older, I knew this is where I wanted to begin my career.
Could you share a positive experience from your time at the SON?
My favorite experiences come from the friends, teachers, and patients that I have met during my time in the School of Nursing. I had countless positive clinical experiences where I was honored to care for patients with some of the best nurses as my clinical instructors. My peers became my closest friends during our clinical time together. Memories with the people I have learned with and learned from will stick with me forever.
What’s one piece of advice you would give your freshman self?
If I could share one piece of advice with my freshman self, I would say that nursing school is hard for a reason. Every tough day is worth it to be a part of this profession. This is a time for learning, so be kind to yourself. The impact others will have on you and the impact you will have on others will reach farther than you know.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to pass the NCLEX and become a Registered Nurse. I plan to start my career as an RN in the Cardiovascular ICU at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital.
How do you feel WVU prepared you for your next chapter?
I feel the WVU SON prepared me to enter the nursing profession and become a safe and competent nurse. I’ve been taught by amazing nurses, both in the classroom and in the hospital. I feel that the SON has built a strong foundation that will allow me to have an expansive career and learn every day.