UP CLOSE
By Sherah Ndjongo, 2025-2026 Imprint Up Close Reporter
How Laura Topliffe Found Her Purpose in Nursing Through The Family Business of Care
For National Student Nurses’ Association( NSNA) chapter leader, Laura Topliffe, nursing was always the family business, yet it wasn ' t her first choice. Like many who eventually find their way to the bedside, her path was a journey of realization rather than a straight line. Today, as she nears the transition from student at Herzing University to professional, Laura has discovered that nursing is the perfect intersection of three distinct worlds: rigorous science, sharp critical thinking, and profound human connection.
Beyond the Diagnosis
What sets a nurse apart in a high-pressure environment? According to Laura, it is the ability to see a human being where others might only see a medical chart.
" A strong and compassionate nurse demonstrates empathy, integrity, and accountability," Laura says. She believes that while compassion allows a nurse to see patients as individuals rather than diagnoses, it is integrity that ensures ethical decisions are made when the pressure is on.
For Laura, the most meaningful moments of her education haven ' t just been about mastering clinical skills, but about the times she realized a patient felt truly heard or reassured by her presence.
Leading with Empathy
Leadership in healthcare is often associated with authority, but Laura’ s approach is rooted in collaboration. Navigating the intense atmosphere of nursing school taught her that teams thrive on trust and emotional awareness rather than just a checklist of tasks.
" One of the biggest challenges was navigating high-pressure environments while working with peers who had different communication styles and stress responses," she reflects. These hurdles shaped her into a leader who prioritizes checking in with teammates and clarifying expectations early. By fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing, she ensures that the focus remains on the ultimate goal: patient safety and quality care.
The Art of the Balance
Nursing school is notoriously demanding, and Laura is the first to admit that staying afloat requires more than just a good planner. It requires a mindset shift.
24 NSNA Imprint