REFLECTION
Choosing to pursue nursing was a decision rooted in my desire to give back and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I have had a strong desire to help people achieve their best selves since I was a small child. To do this, nursing provides a special chance to integrate empathy, critical thinking, and practical care. I can empower patients, encourage healing, and offer consolation during their most vulnerable times in my line of work. I have always been driven to pursue a career in healthcare because I come from a household with few healthcare professionals. My life’s ambition has been to work in healthcare, which has inspired me to overcome obstacles and put in a lot of effort to achieve this goal. Being able to contribute to this vital profession as one of the few members of my family has made me feel proud and purposeful.
My journey into nursing was not without its challenges. I started my first year at Trent University in September 2023 with the intention of eventually enrolling in the nursing program. It was a challenging setback when I was first turned down for the program because I didn’t meet the math requirement. However, I enrolled in a math course and worked diligently to meet the criteria, keeping my focus on the end goal. I was thrilled and relieved when I received my acceptance letter for the nursing school in February 2024. I felt a sense of success and thankfulness after months of hard labor and uncertainty. Knowing that all of my hard work had paid off, it was a moment that confirmed my decision to become a nurse.
Despite the joy of being accepted, my first semester in the nursing program was incredibly challenging. The demands of coursework, and adapting to the expectations of a professional program were overwhelming at times. There were moments when I felt like giving up, doubting my ability to keep up with the pace and pressure. After my NURS1001H midterm, my doubts in my abilities grew, and I found myself questioning if I could continue at this pace. I was under increasing strain and worried about my academic standing. Fortunately, I was able to change my viewpoint after speaking with my parents and reminded myself that my grades do not determine who I am. I came to see that failures are a chance for development and that they should inspire one to work even harder rather than give up. I resolved to return to school as best I could. This reflection on my growth and resilience helped me focus on my long-term goals and solidified my commitment to the nursing program.
The CNO Code of Conduct (2023) has served as a guide for me during this journey. It highlights the significance of upholding patient dignity, preserving trust via skillful treatment, and cooperating to advance wellbeing. My dedication to professionalism and sensitivity in my coursework and clinical work was strengthened by these values. Furthermore, the CNO Scope of Practice (2023) inspired me to keep expanding my knowledge and abilities in order to fulfill these duties by reminding me of the wide range of roles nurses play in therapeutic care, patient advocacy, and health promotion.
As I think back on my first semester, I see that nursing is about more than just clinical expertise and technical know-how; it’s also about resiliency, empathy, and overcoming obstacles. The RNAO (2022) underlined the significance of resilience and mental health, urging me to embrace self-care techniques like mindfulness and getting help in order to properly handle stress.
I am incredibly appreciative of the chance to participate in the nursing program and the knowledge I have gained this semester. I am committed to making the greatest academic recovery possible and to overcoming obstacles because I know that every step I take will contribute to my development into the kind and capable nurse I want to be.