Photos courtesy of Rachel Stanek
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a two-time Badger alum — I graduated from the traditional undergraduate program and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in the pediatric track.
I also come from a family of nurses — my mom, husband, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, and mother-in-law are all nurses!
What has helped you along the way to grow and develop your career here?
As a student, the faculty made all the difference. I had so many great mentors through the undergraduate and graduate programs who modeled what it means to be an excellent nurse and nursing instructor.
What is your favorite insider tip about the School of Nursing (e.g., where to find the best snacks) or advice you have for someone who wants to start a career here?
As a nursing student, you can access the building when it’s closed to the public, so it’s a great spot to study when other buildings are busy.
My friends and I would often meet at the nursing school for late-night study sessions. There are also a lot of whiteboards in the study spaces, which are so helpful when studying!
There is a spot on the first floor near the lockers where people leave their used textbooks for anyone to take. Sometimes you can even find the books you need for a future class there!
What’s the most important lesson you wish to convey to students?
I hope to convey to students the importance of continuous learning — especially by asking questions. The safest nurses are those who actively and frequently seek out additional resources and support.
“Seek out support early and often — we are here to help you succeed.”
As I went through the undergraduate nursing program, my mom always told me, “You will know enough to ask good questions when you graduate.” This philosophy helped guide my nursing practice and how I teach students today. It also applies to the nursing program.
Seek out support early and often – we are here to help you succeed. I am excited about our Nursing kNowledge Network (N3) and Badger Scholars programs that started last year. In N3, students from the second year of the traditional BSN program lead study groups for students in the first year of the program. It is a great way for students to actively study throughout the semester and get to know their peers (and future colleagues).
The Badger Scholars program provides general academic and social support to promote student success in the program and beyond. We meet every three weeks to cover topics like active study strategies, exam strategies, career exploration, and NCLEX support.
Every position on our campus makes an impact on our campus community and beyond. How does your role contribute to the WI Idea?
In my role in the CTEN, I provide additional skills practice opportunities for our students so they can feel confident and competent in their clinical practice.
In my opinion, it’s one of the best parts of the nursing program — getting to practice the hands-on skills and clinical judgment that you will apply daily in your future career. As a student, practicing in the lab was the first time I started to feel like a real nurse.
I also provide academic support opportunities through Career & Student Success to support the students’ success in the program and their future careers.
In both of my roles, I hope to help students feel prepared as they enter practice to support the health of people in Wisconsin and beyond.
Anything else you would like students or other staff/faculty to know?
To students, enjoy your time in the nursing program. It goes so fast! I’m so grateful that I was able to attend this school (twice) and the lifelong friendships I’ve made while in it.