This is just one of the many benefits of attending NSNA conventions , conferences , and online forums . You can also get connected with nurses from several different specialties such as critical care nurses , oncology nurses , pediatric nurses , nurse managers , nurse practitioners , and many more . The workshops that are provided at conferences and conventions make it highly accessible to network and exchange ideas . Meeting individuals who are experienced , passionate , and excited to share with students is always revitalizing . Make sure to attend , and maybe you will find the nursing specialty that you feel called to , or maybe you will get the advice you need to get through the semester . Always take any opportunity that comes your way , whether it is provided by a professor , school , work , or with NSNA . As nursing students , we are very busy and feel like we just don ’ t have the time , but you don ’ t want to look back on your time in school and think “ what if . . .” Step outside of your comfort zone , network and make the time to experience new things , it is well worth it in the end .
When the journey gets tough , remember why you started .
You have worked hard to be where you are today and are successfully progressing through nursing school . You are incredible in every way . You have the knowledge and skills to improve care . As a future nurse you have genuine compassion that is readily shared with patients , families , coworkers , and communities . You possess all these top-tier traits that no other profession can match . Obstacles and challenges shape our decision making and personalities . Without them would we be the people we are today ? Would we learn and grow if everything was an easy straight path ? I personally don ’ t think so . Anyone can say they want to be a nurse , get into nursing school , and get a job . It takes a special person to continue to do this work and do it with compassion . No one said it would be easy , but it is worth it . If you ever find yourself questioning it , remember your why . Reflect on the moment when you made that decision to go to nursing school and never forget it . When you feel like quitting or leaving the profession , dig out that memory and use it as motivation . Keep an open mind and go after things that you are passionate about , especially when times get rough no matter what area you go into .
The bottom line is nursing can be anything you want it to be . You just must take the initiative and make it happen ! No role or title is more important than the next . If you find yourself feeling burnt out , move on , and find passion in another area . The opportunities are endless , and you are free to change your mind . In today ’ s culture it is even encouraged . Explore as many roles as you want or find joy in . In all honesty that is the true beauty of nursing .
There are so many ways to touch the lives of others ! In the years you will spend helping and caring for others , remember to practice self-care . Whatever this means for you , whether it ’ s physical , spiritual , or emotional , take some time each day to self-reflect and do something for yourself . I think by our very nature we get caught up in helping and healing others that we can turn a blind eye to our own needs . You cannot properly care for others if you yourself are not well . Be the best version of you , it will show , and your patients will thank you for it .
Become a 2024-2025
Project InTouch Recruiter
TODAY !
Paving the Way with NSNA
Project InTouch ( PIT ) is a program that NSNA offers to reward NSNA members for recruiting new members . PIT recruiters play a vital role in increasing membership , they receive prizes including the grand prize ( convention travel expenses up
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