CNF Award

I am a second-year nursing student at the University of Calgary. I have a previous degree in Fine Art and several years of corporate work experience, but decided to return to school as an adult learner to pursue nursing, which I believe will be a more fulfilling and challenging career path for me. I was excited and grateful to receive a Canadian Nurses Foundation Scholarship to help fund my tuition expenses. Having less financial strain allows me to be more fully present in a practice environment, which directly benefits the quality of my student-client interactions.

I have worked primarily with older adult clients with cognitive impairments during practicum hours, and have experienced many fulfilling interactions with this population. One of the most special moments so far was when I was able to assist bathing a client with a lift for the first time; I had the opportunity to wash her hair and connect with her through the act of therapeutic touch. I have considered specializing in gerontology or palliative care, but it will be difficult to say until I have had more opportunities for clinical experience. I believe that every person is worthy of love and care; I intend to imbue my practice with this value. I will do my best to be a good ambassador to the profession of nursing as I learn.