June 1, 2016
Lindsey Averill is a traditional student earning a bachelor of science in nursing. She has learned that nursing is not just another job and wants to be an advocate for patients, realizing they are holistic beings that need compassionate care.
Q: Why do you want to become a nurse?
A: This is always a difficult question to answer because there is no pinpoint reason on why I am pursing a nursing career. My mother has been a nurse for more than 30 years, and I have always admired how dedicated and passionate she was about this career. I remember being told to stay quiet when I got home from school because my mom was sleeping after her night shifts. I was always confused as to why she had a job that made her so tired, but after becoming an adult and pursuing this field, I understand. Nursing is not just another job. Nursing is the only profession that you are able to work with your heart, your hands and your knowledge. I am looking forward to the small yet important moments when I realize how much of an impact I made on a patient and their family. Nurses are the only people who are seeing and providing care for a person when they are the most vulnerable. As nurses, we provide the patient a feeling of trust because of our compassionate care.
Q: Why did you choose MSU to pursue your nursing career?
A: As I was studying as a pre-nursing student and completing my pre-requisite courses for the college, I talked to as many students who were already in the nursing program. They told me how much they enjoyed their clinical sites and by Level 2 were starting to really feel like nurses. I have also had several conversations with current RNs who have worked with Spartan Nurses and are impressed with how the college prepares us to be theory and evidence based practice driven members of the team. We are taught so well how to see the patient and family as holistic beings and provide the care that will accommodate to their needs best. I believe that no other nursing school produces such amazing and reliable nurses than Michigan State.
Q: What nursing specialty do you plan to pursue and why?
A: I am hoping to end up pursuing pediatric nursing because I have always enjoyed working with kids. Even when they are hospitalized, they are still kids. Even when kids are in pain or uncomfortable, they will still smile and want to play games. Being in the hospital doesn't take the kid out of them. Supporting their family and doing everything I can to keep a child stable and healthy while in the hospital is an overall goal of mine if I become a pediatric nurse.
Q: Has there been a professor, adviser or student that significantly helped or inspired you? If yes, explain.
A: My very first instructor in the College of Nursing throughout Level 1 was Carol Vermeesch. She was the most inspiring person to have teach me the ins and outs of nursing when we were all scared to even approach a patient. Having her by my side during those first couple of clinical days was very comforting. I have always been able to come to her when I need reassurance or advice while moving along in the College of Nursing. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to work with Carol, and I know she was an integral part in my development as a Spartan Nurse.
Q: What has been your favorite experience at MSU so far?
A: I currently play for the women's club water polo team at MSU. The experiences I've had with these girls who I've come to know as a part of my family will never be forgotten. Whether we are at traveling around the B1G Ten for tournaments or practicing at IM west, I am grateful for the lifelong friendships I have made while playing a sport I'm passionate about.
Q: As a future Spartan Nurse, what gives you the greatest sense of accomplishment?
A: I feel a sense of accomplishment when I dedicate myself to a job or task that results in positive outcomes. Knowing that I am making a difference for families and patients by putting this hard work to use, I am confident in my abilities and myself. As long as I put in as much work as I can, I will feel a sense of accomplishment.
Q: How will you put your Spartan Nursing degree to use?
A: As a Spartan Nurse, I am hoping to become an integral part of the treatment team for my patients. Serving as an advocate in addition to caring and searching for the best possible care in order to improve my patient's outcome is how I will put my Spartan nursing degree to use.
Reprinted with permission from the College of Nursing