Reflection on My Entry into Nursing

Life is a journey of self-discovery, marked by transitions that shape our understanding of purpose and calling. I have always believed everyone has a unique purpose, something deeply ingrained in their spirit. For me, that purpose is rooted in caring for others, especially the most vulnerable—seniors, whose resilience inspires me, and babies, whose innocence brings me joy. Despite this clarity, my journey into nursing was not straightforward, requiring personal and professional transitions that ultimately guided me to my calling.

I began my professional journey with a degree in geology, drawn to the intellectual challenge of understanding the earth’s complexities. At the time, it felt practical and prestigious, but I soon realized something was missing. Research suggests that career dissatisfaction often stems from a misalignment between one’s intrinsic values and professional roles (Duffy, Allan, & Bott, 2016). In hindsight, I see how my passion for human connection conflicted with the solitary, data-driven nature of geology.

Seeking fulfillment, I transitioned to information security, which introduced me to problem-solving and adaptability under pressure. Yet, even in this fast-paced environment, I missed the interpersonal connection and compassion that I craved. During moments of reflection, I found myself thinking about the joy I experienced caring for babies in my church and the meaningful conversations I had with seniors in my community. These experiences reminded me of my deep desire to connect with people and make a difference in their lives which make moments aligned with the concept of “purpose-driven engagement,” which is strongly correlated with life satisfaction and well-being (Steger, Dik, & Duffy, 2021).

In a period of prayer and introspection, I realized nursing was the path that aligned with my core values. Enrolling in nursing school was a significant transition and a realization of my true purpose. Each class reinforces my belief that nursing is not just a career, but a vocation rooted in compassion, service, and human connection. Watson’s (2008) theory of human caring affirms these values, emphasizing holistic care and the centrality of relationships in achieving professional and personal fulfillment.

Every step of my journey, from analyzing the earth’s layers to understanding the layers of human care, has brought me closer to a career that feels like home. In September 2024, I began my nursing journey at Trent University. Entering the program felt both exciting and overwhelming, as I was stepping into a new chapter with its own challenges and opportunities. Balancing the demands of coursework with personal responsibilities required me to quickly adapt and develop strategies to stay organized and focused. One of my most memorable moments this semester was my first lab simulation, where I practiced donning and doffing personal protective equipment. It reinforced how precision and diligence can safeguard lives, deepening my understanding of the responsibility nurses carry.

This journey has not been without challenges. Starting over required adaptability, perseverance, and the courage to face uncertainty. Reflecting on my previous careers has allowed me to recognize the transferable skills I bring to nursing. My geology background honed my analytical thinking and attention to detail, while information security developed my ability to remain calm under pressure—both essential in nursing practice.

Through the course content and hands-on learning opportunities, I have gained a deeper understanding of the nursing profession. The CNO Code of Conduct (2023) has been particularly impactful, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care, therapeutic communication, and professionalism. These principles have guided me in reflecting on what it means to serve others with respect and integrity. Additionally, the emphasis on building practical skills has helped me connect theory to practice, preparing me for real-world scenarios.

Research underscores the importance of meaningful work as a driver of long-term satisfaction and professional success (Duffy et al., 2016). As I progress in my nursing education, I feel privileged to walk a path that aligns with my purpose. Whether comforting an elderly patient or holding a newborn, I find joy, meaning, and spiritual alignment in caring for others.

Looking ahead, I am both eager and a little nervous about my first clinical placement. I know it will come with its own challenges, but I also see it as an invaluable opportunity to apply what I have learned and grow as a future nurse. As we approach the end of the semester, I feel proud of how far I have come and grateful for the experiences that have shaped me. I am committed to embracing this journey, knowing that each step brings me closer to fulfilling my calling to care for others.