Eaton Foundation Award

Prior to beginning my nursing studies at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), I volunteered as a patient visitor at Vancouver General Hospital and St. Paul’s Hospital. These experiences led me to connect with people who were often more than happy to share a special moment and whose life stories usually left me in awe—in return I simply had to give them my time and presence.

I am now halfway through the accelerated BSN program at BCIT and I am glad I can say it’s a great fit. In between administering medications, monitoring vitals, attending to call bells, untangling IV lines, and completing what seems to be a hundred other tasks, I have still been fortunate enough to have had similar, special moments with patients and their families. Whether it is assisting others on their road to recovery or providing comfort in loss, these experiences have not only been rewarding and challenging, they have also solidified my desire to contribute to others’ lives in a meaningful way.

I am incredibly thankful and honoured to be chosen as an award recipient, as this award will help reduce the financial stress associated with pursuing post-secondary education. After graduation I plan to specialize in either emergency or critical care nursing and one of my goals is to become a clinical nurse specialist. Ultimately, I believe this award will allow me to focus on my personal and academic growth so that I can continue to provide safe care to those in need.