CNSA Impact Award

My journey into the Nursing profession started after I completed my BSc in Biochemistry and Immunology. I have previously worked in an HIV research laboratory at the University of Toronto and published some of my research work. However, as a researcher, I didn’t always have the opportunity to see my work’s direct impact on patient/client outcomes. This led me to pursue a career in Nursing, where I was able to be involved directly in patient care. However, soon after that, I noticed that my interest lies in healthcare care’s “big picture” aspects. So far, the most rewarding experience in my Nursing program at the University of Toronto was the opportunity to write a letter from the perspective of a student nurse actively involved in patient care to a policy decision maker. As a result, I recognize nurses’ influential role in leveraging their clinical expertise and involving stakeholders to influence local and even national health policy change.

The following steps in my beginning nursing career are gaining bedside work experience, a better understanding of our current healthcare system, and pursuing nursing research. I hope to soon be able to influence Canadian healthcare in a positive way!