We revisited the first nursing class at Marian University's accelerated nursing program in Indianapolis and introduced you to Bill and Sarah in a previous blog post. We were able to catch up with Sarah about her journey into advanced practice nursing, an option for baccalaureate-educated nurses. Our conversation with Sarah follows.
What are you studying and how do you plan to use the education?
I am doing the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program at Ball State. I currently have four semesters to go until graduation in spring of 2015. I am studying advanced pharmacology, and this semester is also my first major clinical. I am currently taking advanced physical assessment and see patients throughout the lifespan at the clinical I am at. This physical assessment clinical is the foundation of my remaining coursework.
What inspired you to advance your education after a bachelor’s degree?
I was fortunate to work with a nurse practitioner at a dermatology office that I worked at when I was a medical assistant. She became my mentor, and I really enjoyed the type of work she did and the professionalism she exhibited. This is what led me to nursing school at Marian University and eventually graduate nursing school. My graduate nursing program will give me more flexibility in my career.
How did the ABSN prepare you for advanced practice nursing?
Marian University's accelerated nursing program helped me to become comfortable with taking online coursework and preparing for clinicals. The graduate nursing program is set up much the same way that Marian University's ABSN program is with online courses and clinicals. Also, some of the general coursework and electives made me more well-rounded, and I am able to better able to relate to the patients I see.
Did you always plan to advance your education after earning a BSN?
Yes. I went to nursing school with the original goal of becoming a nurse practitioner after working with a nurse practitioner. Being an advanced practice nurse has been my goal before even beginning nursing school.
What did you do before you entered the nursing profession?
I have a bachelor’s degree in health promotion that I received before I went to nursing school. I have worked as a pharmacy technician, medical assistant, medical school administrative assistant and also stayed at home with my children part time.
Is there anything else you’d like future nurses considering advanced practice positions to know?
Future nurses considering going into advanced practice must be willing to continue to learn and to get experience with a variety of patients. I also recommend that you job shadow an advanced practice nurse in a few different settings to see what the job entails. Good luck!
If you're ready to start pursuing your nursing education, contact us today.