The word work is such a heavy almost negative word to some. But alas in todays modern world we must work to get the things we need and provide for the people we love. So if we must work why not work in a career where we are happy to go to work as opposed to begrudgingly dragging our feet day in, day out. As followed are three sisters following their dream careers. Even though there will always be bumps in the road of life, by taking the necessary steps in following their passion, these sisters where able to get a better view to deal with those bumps.
By Alicia Bustillos, Communications Officer
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Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life
Jessica Aloyo Advance Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP)
Jessica Aloyo grew up in the small town of Plant City, Florida. Aloyo's family is originally from Puerto Rico & her father is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and mother worked for the Department of Children and Families. From a young age, her parents instilled the importance of family and service to our communities. Aloyo always wanting to be
part of a profession in which she could help individuals and families in need. In 2005, she began studies at Florida State University as a Nursing major. In 2009 she graduated with a Bachelor’s in Nursing Science. After working two years as a Neurology Nurse, Aloyo decided she wanted to do more in the profession. In 2011, Aloyo returned to Florida State University to complete her studies to become a Nurse Practitioner. In 2014, Aloyo graduated with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and began working as a Neurology Nurse Practitioner at a local hospital. The journey has been long and challenging at times, however she is very happy to be in a career where I can fulfill my passion to help people.
School/Chapter/Year of Graduation:
Joined Kappa Delta Chi as a graduate student. I am part of the Delta Alpha Graduate/Professional Chapter, Spring 2013, Gamma Class.
Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN- 2009) and Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP- 2014)
Tell us a little about what you do:
As a Nurse Practitioner, I work alongside my collaborating physician to assess, diagnose, and treat patients. I have my specialty in Neurology, so my practice is focused on patients with neurological disorders and diseases. Specifically, I work in an outpatient Neuro-Ophthalmology clinic. We see all ages, and at times will consult on emergent cases in the hospital setting.
How did you get your job? (Please explain if through networking, simple applied online etc.)
I received my first job as a Nurse through the hospital I interned with during my undergraduate studies. After completing my senior internship, I was offered a job on the Neurology unit. I worked for two years on this unit before returning to graduate school, and continued to work throughout my graduate program. My years on the Neurology unit allowed me to network with many Neurologists in the area; which worked out really well. When I graduated with my Nurse Practitioner degree I had many job offers from Neurologist I had worked with as a Nurse.
Is this a job/career that you’ve dreamed about since a child or was this a career you never imagined having?
Since childhood, I knew I wanted to be in a career which allowed me to help people. I was fascinated with anatomy and medicine and was always drawn to healthcare. I focused on Nursing, because looking back on my personal experiences, it was the nurses who made the greatest impact with their holistic approach- and I wanted to be part of this special profession. Going on to obtain my Nurse Practitioner degree was a goal I made for myself- to be in a position with the greatest opportunity in the nursing field.
Is it what you thought it was going to be? Why or why not?
Every day is a new experience. You never know what you are going to see in the clinic, and I love this aspect. The career is one I expected it to be- one that is marked by long hours and unpredictable challenges, though incredibly rewarding- which is why I continue every day.
What is a typical conflict that you have encountered (if any) that KDChi has taught you to deal with or resolve?
When working in healthcare, patience and good communications skills are critical. I believe my experiences with KDChi taught me the importance of listening and effective communication. Conflict and disagreement can rise between providers and patients concerning treatment options and recommendations- I have found truly listening to the patient, allows the patient to participate in their care which is necessary for positive health outcomes.
What are you responsible for on a day to day basis?
I work 12 hours shifts, and generally will see patients for the majority of that time. I am responsible for the assessment and medical management of the patient to include the appropriate initiation of medications and ordering of tests- and the interpretation of said tests. Occasionally, I will have to travel to the main hospital for an emergency consultation.
What advice do you have for sisters looking to go into this field?
Nursing is a great field. Nursing provides the opportunity to make a direct impact on individuals and their families. There are many job opportunities- ranging from inpatient to outpatient care, traveling nursing, school nurse, education, nursing informatics, etc- the possibilities are endless- you would always have a job!
What is the best piece of advice ever received?
Find what you are passionate about and turn it into a career- you will always be happy and fulfilled.
What would you consider your biggest failure? What did you learn from this?
I’m not sure I would consider it a failure, but I had a difficult time in my first two years as an undergrad. I switched my major about four times, and was very disheartened about my future. I knew I wanted to be in healthcare, but did not know what route I wanted to take. After talking to advisors and mentors I found my perfect fit with Nursing. What I learned from this is that we should take our time; everyone is always in a rush to get to the next part of their life. Deciding on a major and career should be on your time and in the meanwhile slow down and enjoy life. Trust yourself and intuition, everything will fall into place.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I hope to continue my Nurse Practitioner career. I would love to participate with non-profit healthcare organizations at some point- whether it is offering my clinical services or being involved in the creation of new programs. I would love to work with populations who cannot afford healthcare or those with limited accessibility- locally or abroad. I also
have a passion for education and would love to teach nursing at the undergraduate level, hopefully in the near future.
What do you do for fun?
I love to travel. I try to get out of town at least once a month to somewhere I
have never been, even if it’s just a nearby town or a local attraction I have never ventured. I love new experiences and learning about cities and their history.
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