Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 My Goals and University Vision

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 My Goals and University Vision

As a LVN for over 16 years working in numerous areas of nursing I had the opportunity to discover where my passion was and an area, I could make a change.  My journey to become a Registered Nurse was not easy but I was able to complete the task a year ago through determination and support from my current work team members. Prior to attending school, I spent five years working as a case manager for individuals with intellectual disabilities and provided clinical care to adults with mental health.  The experience allowed me to develop a vision for change within this population especially those who experience cultural health disparities.  My goal is to bring diversity to the field and provide care to those who may not receive culturally competent care which affects their outcomes and quality of life.

After several years of researching different schools to fit my personal situation I found Walden University.  Through networking and interacting with staff at Walden, I knew this was the school that could meet my needs.  The universities commitment to provide “rigorous and culturally relevant education for diverse groups of professionals” is something that made my decision easier (Walden University, 2021, paragraph 2).  I am compassionate about providing culturally competent care that meets the needs of a diverse population transforming the current healthcare system to benefit everyone.  According to Walden University College of Nursing (2021), their goal to initiate programs that are learner centered and incorporate the skills and abilities of students is a concept that has encouraged as well as increased my confidence in my decision to further my education.

Incorporation of Becoming a Scholar-Practitioner

According to Smith & Wilkins (2018) scholar-practitioners are individuals who participate in ongoing learning and self-reflection that benefit their fields while contributing to their professional development.  Walden’s Nursing program incorporates the leadership skills, diversity, and educational platform that will assist in becoming a scholar-practitioner.  My goal to provide cost effective care while improving the practices utilized to care for individuals with mental health are possible through the outcomes established through Walden University.

Over the years I have dealt with social anxiety which has made interacting in a class setting more difficult.  I was the student who did not speak out much in class and usually would sit in the back.  Walden’s online platform has given me the opportunity to collaborate and network with others in a comfortable setting that is easy to maneuver.  As I continue my education, also plan to increase my networking and ability to reach more people through collaboration with other healthcare organizations. I can increase my ability to network and build relationships that are beneficial to my professional growth which will also help the individuals I plan to serve.