My CPR training certificate is one of my first real steps into the nursing profession. This milestone marked the start of my journey to become a caring and capable caregiver. Even though I was nervous during the in-person learning, I persevered and finished the course. It was a rewarding experience that provided me with the technical skills needed to perform life-saving techniques while also emphasizing the importance of staying calm and thinking quickly in high-pressure situations. This achievement represents more than just learning a skill; it demonstrates my commitment to patient safety and willingness to step up in critical situations. It serves as a reminder that determination and focus, even in the face of uncertainty, can lead to success.

My third artifact captures a photo of one of my proudest moments of my rep basketball career: my team’s victory in the 2023-2024 OBA Division 2 Gold Medal Championship. We struggled to find our footing early in the season, losing many games and facing individual challenges. But in the end, we came together as a team and pulled through when it counted the most. This transformation taught me the value of collaboration, which is essential in both basketball and nursing. On the court, success was dependent on our ability to communicate, trust one another, and capitalize on each other’s strengths. Each player contributed unique skills to the team, and it was only through collaboration that we were able to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Collaboration is equally important in the nursing profession. Whether it’s coordinating with colleagues during a high-pressure situation or consulting with multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic care, effective teamwork is critical to achieving the best outcomes for patients. Winning this gold medal emphasized the importance of perseverance and adaptability, but it also demonstrated the power of unity. It’s a lesson I’ll carry with me into my nursing career—a reminder that no matter what the challenge, working together with purpose and determination can lead to extraordinary results.

This bag, which I received during my first lab session at Trent University, holds great significance in my nursing career. It marks the beginning of my hands-on education and my first step toward practicing essential nursing skills. That day, I was nervous about what to expect from the lab session, which I imagined would be overwhelming. Instead, the focus was on mastering personal protective equipment (PPE), a critical skill in infection prevention and control. PPE is a critical component of nursing practice because it ensures the safety of patients and healthcare workers. Learning about its proper use taught me not only the technical aspects, but also the importance of paying attention to detail and following protocols in order to protect patient and public health. This artifact represents the foundation of my commitment to maintaining these standards in all aspects of care. Reflecting on my experience, I realize how important even seemingly basic skills are in the nursing profession. As a nurse, I will be responsible for protecting vulnerable populations from preventable harm. That first lab reinforced my understanding of the critical role nurses play in infection control and ensuring safe environments for both patients and nurses. This artifact also serves as a reminder of my growing confidence. Initially, I was nervous and intimidated, but I quickly realized that every new challenge is an opportunity for growth. By overcoming my initial fears, I’ve developed resilience and a willingness to embrace new learning experiences—both of which are essential in nursing. As I continue my studies, this bag serves as a reminder of the profession’s core values: safety, preparedness, and a commitment to continuous learning. It marks the start of my hands-on education and my commitment to providing safe, compassionate care to my future patients.