Congratulations to all of the new nurse graduates!  This is such an exciting time for you, I am sure. 

I remember it well.  A mixture of excitement, pride, and anxiety for what you have accomplished and what lies ahead.

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting with Kelly, a new BSN graduate from Wesley College in Dover, Delaware. 

Kelly is a dynamic, energetic go-getter, from what I gathered at our lunch together.  Kelly came striding into Panera Bread in workout clothing with a smile and bounce in her step.  She enthusiastically described all aspects of her time at school, including some struggles that she seemed to deal with and overcome beautifully. With a good head on her shoulders and a positive attitude, it is no wonder that she graduated Magna Cum Laude and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.

She even managed to play on her school's softball team before being sidelined by a shoulder injury.  For us nurses who remember our training, it is no small feat to get through nursing school, let alone play a collegiate sport in addition to our rigorous studies!

 Kelly related that 2021 was a significant year to graduate from Wesley College in the nursing program.  Sadly, Wesley College will be absorbed by Delaware State University starting next school year.  Graduation was exciting, although it was a bit bittersweet to know that the nursing class of 2021 would be the last at this fine, historic university.

When asked what motivated her to become a nurse, Kelly related that she was not one of those nurses who always longed to be a nurse.  She had been considering a career in physical therapy until she discovered her calling as a nurse by accident.  Tragically, Kelly spent many hours learning to nurse at the bedside of a seriously ill friend.  Kelly championed for her friend Meghan throughout her battle with cancer and found that she had the ability and fortitude for what it takes to be a great nurse. (To learn more about Meghan's story visit www.Imdoinit.org)

Kelly offered a few unique tips to help nursing students get through school.  

Exercise Regularly to feel better and ease tension.                                                                                                                                

Kelly, many days was up at 4 AM to get that essential workout in to start her day off with a clear head.

GET A DOG!                                                                                                                                                                                     

Kelly was adamant that her Corgi Daisy (otherwise called "Pie") saved her sanity while in nursing school.  Although she could not keep him at school for her full 4 years due to clinical rotations, Pie was by her side for much of her school time at Wesley. 

What's in the Future for Kelly?

Kelly is currently studying for her NCLEX exams and has a job waiting for her at Penn State Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Pa.  She is thrilled to take a position in the PICU.  Penn State Health has a 1 year graduate nurse residency (preceptor program) that will help ease new nurses into the profession, which Kelly plans to take advantage of beginning next month.

I want to wish Kelly and all of the new nurses good luck on their exams and for a very bright future in nursing.  You chose the BEST career out there. Congratulations!

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