Name: Sonam Dorjee
Preferred Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Anticipated Graduation: May 2025
Hometown: Madison, WI
Why did you choose to pursue nursing? Or, how did you know you wanted to be a nurse?
My first introduction to the nursing program here at UW–Madison was attending my aunt’s nursing school graduation in 2011. Since then, the program has grown tremendously and even has a state-of-the-art building for students and faculty to call home. Seeing my aunt’s dedication to supporting others during vulnerable time periods inspired me to follow her footsteps and become a Badger nurse. The growth of the nursing program here at UW exemplifies the values of advancement in nursing. I adore the nursing profession as it allows endless opportunities to learn and become an active voice in the healthcare community. The versatility of the profession excites me, nurses are educators, researchers, advocates, caregivers, and so much more. I am greatly inspired by all the achievements of the Badger nurses that came before me and hope to inspire the next generation of Badger nurses.
What does a week in your life as a nursing student look like? How do you balance it all?
I typically had full days of class or clinical on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays and had Tuesdays and Fridays off. Although nursing school involves a lot of early mornings and long days, I was able to balance my hobbies, social life, and school with my days off.
What has been your favorite class or unit in the nursing program so far?
My favorite class was either pharmacology or pathophysiology, both classes were engaging and interactive. I had so much fun learning about the complexities of diseases in pathophysiology and Professor Snedden did an amazing job of setting students up for success. On the flip side, in pharmacology I got to explore different study habits and methods and found one that worked for me. I know that all nursing courses will be applicable in my career, and I look forward to a career of endless learning!
Where have your clinical placements been? And what were your experiences like?
My clinical placements were at UW Health just across the street from the nursing school! I enjoyed clinicals as I made lifelong connections with members of my clinical group, was an active member in a patient’s care team and learned from the experiences of my clinical instructors.
What are you most looking forward to in your senior year at the School of Nursing? What will you miss most?
Senior year is unique as I get to flourish individually during a preceptorship-based clinical. I look forward to finishing strong and making the most out of my senior year! I will miss the Badger nursing community and the beautiful scenery surrounding the nursing school.
How would you describe the culture of the nursing program?
The culture of the nursing program is encouraging and supportive! I am constantly leaning on my friends for moral support. Having a support system of others going through similar experiences is one of the best parts of being in a tight knit nursing cohort!
What kinds of things are you involved in or interested in outside of nursing school?
I enjoy going on walks outside with my dog, Simba, spending time with loved ones, watching movies and TV shows, going to the gym, and trying new cuisines! As a nursing student, having activities that ground me are key to having a balanced schedule.
What are your career aspirations after graduation?
As Badger nurses, we have limitless opportunities to grow, learn, and engage in community building activities. After gaining experience working in a cardiac intermediate care unit, I hope to work in a cardiac intensive care unit. With my healthcare and leadership experience, I strive to advocate for accessible health care in my mother’s hometown of Dharamsala, India. Additionally, I hope to support medical procedures and treatments for the stray animal population in Dharamsala.
What advice would you give to individuals that are interested in pursuing nursing?
A career in nursing is so versatile as it offers opportunities to work in a variety of different specialties and healthcare settings. The possibilities are endless with a career in nursing and I highly encourage anyone who feels a calling to nursing to take advantage of shadow opportunities, tours, and information sessions to learn more! Although many aspects of nursing may feel unfamiliar at first, the learning opportunities within nursing school help greatly! The resources at UW nursing are great and the faculty care about the wellbeing of their students.
What is your top bucket list item and why?
I hope to get tickets to the World Cup when the tournament comes to the U.S. in 2026! I know it will be a challenge to find tickets, but it has been my dream since childhood.