Why I Chose Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
I chose Cabarrus College for several reasons, primarily its proximity to my home. The short daily commute to both campus and clinical sites granted me easy, constant access to the institution’s academic resources. This was particularly beneficial when I needed a dedicated, quiet environment for studying outside of my home.
The college provides students with full access to the library facilities at Atrium Health Cabarrus, where there is availability of computers, printers, and an extensive collection of medical literature that assisted my preparation for exams and clinical rotations.
Furthermore, the nursing program is recognized for being highly competitive yet maintaining an intimate atmosphere. The smaller cohort size fostered the development of close interpersonal relationships with both my peers and clinical instructors, which greatly enhanced my learning experience both in the classroom and in the hospital.
Finally, the college’s direct affiliation with Atrium Health offered a distinct advantage with clinical rotations that took place immediately adjacent to the campus, eliminating the need for long commutes to outlying facilities. This long-standing partnership between the college and the healthcare system allowed me to cultivate professional connections and secure preceptorships that were instrumental in preparing for my transition into the specialty that I desired as a new graduate.
My Calling to Nursing
Though it may sound cliche, the nursing profession was a true calling for me; I have never envisioned myself in any other field. Specifically, Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) nursing was the singular focus of my career aspirations. My natural compassion and love for infants and young children drove my desire to acquire the specialized education and clinical skills necessary to help these vulnerable patients not only survive but thrive long-term.
I desired an Intensive Care environment, where my critical thinking skills could grow and be challenged, but one that was focused on the smallest patients with distinct intrinsic pathophysiology different than that of an adult patient.
NICU patients are remarkably resilient, and I feel profoundly privileged to support both them and their families through what is often an extensive and challenging journey. Having a child in the NICU is a significant life event, and the quality of the care team can profoundly impact a family’s experience, which is something I take much pride in being a part of. I provide exceptional care and hope to make a meaningful, positive difference for every family I serve.
Life After Graduation
Following graduation in December 2020, I completed the NCLEX in January 2021, shortly before welcoming my daughter, Isla, in March 2021. I began my professional career at the NICU at Levine Children’s Hospital as a new graduate.
After gaining foundational experience there, I chose to transition to a period of stay-at-home motherhood to prioritize my daughter’s early developmental years, a decision that provided me with cherished lifelong memories. I eventually returned to clinical practice in the NICU at Novant Health Presbyterian, where I practiced until 2025. In October of that year, I achieved a significant career milestone by accepting a position as a Neonatal/Pediatric Flight Nurse.
Outside of my professional responsibilities, I prioritize personal time at the gym, enjoy outdoor activities, and frequent local bookstores and cafes with my daughter. I am also an avid viewer of documentaries and value quality time with my daughter, our golden retriever, and our extended family, my Grandparents, Aunt/Uncle, and cousins. Their unwavering support has been the cornerstone of my ability to pursue my professional ambitions and not only create but live the best life for myself and my daughter.
Nursing Career Takes Flight
My current role as a flight nurse has been an extraordinary professional experience. Driven by my desire for continuous growth, I sought this position to gain extended ICU education and clinical experience beyond the traditional bedside setting. Unlike the standard scope of practice in a hospital ICU unit, serving with Med Center Air allows me to function as an autonomous clinician. Utilizing advanced protocols curated by our Neonatologists and Emergency Medicine Director, I have the professional latitude to make critical decisions based on real-time clinical presentations.
In this role, my scope of practice includes advanced interventions such as intubation, the creation/mixing up and titration of complex pharmacologic agents (including vasopressors, prostaglandins, and narcotics), and the insertion of invasive lines, such as UVC, UAC, and IO access. Additionally, I am responsible for initiating and titrating ventilator settings as I see fit, performing needle decompressions, and chest tube insertions as needed.
These responsibilities represent a significant advancement from the traditional ICU nursing role, where such procedures are typically reserved for physicians or Neonatal Nurse Practitioners. Gaining these advanced skills while collaborating with the medical providers at these referring and receiving facilities has been an invaluable opportunity that I believe will open further doors for me in the future within the healthcare field.
Furthermore, the operational aspects of the role, providing clinical care in transport via helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft, add a unique and exciting dimension to my daily work. The views are great!