CeraVe Skincare Scholarships for Diversity and Equity

My name is Kaitlynn Ricard, and I am a fourth-year nursing student. I chose this career path because I aspire to make a significant impact in my community. Growing up in the rural city of Estevan, Saskatchewan, I always admired healthcare professionals as real-life superheroes, with their intelligence and unparalleled kindness. 

As I grew up, I became acutely aware of the staffing challenges in our rural hospitals. Witnessing the difficulty in attracting new nurses when others retired illuminated a critical issue: our community’s need for dedicated healthcare professionals. This realization fueled my determination to contribute to the healthcare system, ensuring that smaller communities receive the essential medical care they deserve. 

Upon commencing my nursing education, I discovered a profound passion for the profession. The connections I formed with patients and peers, coupled with the fulfillment derived from my work and studies, reinforced my commitment to nursing. The profession’s dynamic nature, the opportunity to acquire diverse skills, and the ability to collaborate with remarkable professionals continually inspire me. 

As I approach the beginning of my career, I am eager to help bridge the healthcare gap between urban and rural communities. I look forward to meeting new patients, learning from experienced nurses, and further developing my expertise. I take immense pride in the profession I have chosen and the person it has shaped me into today.