When I first stepped into the long-term care (LTC) facility as a newly certified nursing assistant (CNA), I didn’t know that I was beginning a journey that would span the full spectrum of nursing, from bedside care to scientific inquiry. What I did know was that I wanted to help people. I wanted to be present for them in moments of vulnerability, and I wanted to make a difference.

Starting at the Bedside: The CNA Experience

My career in nursing began in a humble yet significantly impactful way, as a CNA in a community-based LTC facility. In that role, I was entrusted with the essential responsibility of providing basic care and assisting patients with activities of daily living (ADLs). Many of these individuals were navigating some of the lowest points in their lives, and it was a privilege to be a source of comfort and dignity for them. Whether it was helping someone eat, ensuring they were clean, or simply offering a kind word, I found joy in knowing that my presence could bring light to their day.

This foundational experience shaped my understanding of healthcare in many ways. As a CNA, I learned that healing begins with human connection. I saw how small acts of care could have a big impact, and I developed a deep respect for the frontline workers who form the backbone of our healthcare system. These lessons stayed with me and inspired me to pursue further education to expand the scope of care I could provide.

Expanding My Scope: Becoming a Registered Nurse

I went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in nursing, driven by a desire to elevate my clinical skills and advocate more effectively for my patients. Working in both inpatient and outpatient settings gave me a broader view of the healthcare system. I encountered diverse patient populations, collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, and deepened my understanding of the complexities of care delivery.

However, becoming a registered nurse also meant confronting the realities of death and dying. I stood beside patients and families during their most heartbreaking moments, learning to navigate grief, uncertainty, and the emotional effect of loss. These experiences shaped me not only as a professional but also as a human being. They taught me the importance of presence, of listening, and of honoring each life with dignity and compassion. I was reminded that nursing is as much about being there in the final moments as it is about healing.

These experiences, both uplifting and heartbreaking, deepened my commitment to nursing and sparked a desire to expand my role. I wanted to not only care for patients but also influence how care was delivered, leading me to pursue an advanced practice nursing degree as a nurse practitioner.

Advancing Clinical Practice: The Nurse Practitioner Path

That desire led me to become an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner-Certified (AGNP-C). In this role, I was able to provide comprehensive care to aging adults, addressing both acute and chronic conditions with a holistic perspective. I cherished the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and support them in maintaining their health and independence.

My work as a nurse practitioner allowed me to expand my clinical expertise and take on more complex responsibilities in patient care. I collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, contributed to care coordination, and played a key role in patient education and advocacy. This phase of my career deepened my understanding of advanced practice nursing and reinforced my commitment to improving health outcomes across diverse populations.

Still, I knew that to make a truly systemic and global impact, I needed to contribute to the science of nursing itself.

Elevating Impact: Ph.D. in Nursing Science

So, I pursued and earned a Ph.D. in nursing science. Through research, I have found a platform to explore pressing healthcare issues, generate evidence-based solutions, and influence policy and clinical practice. My doctoral work has allowed me to ask critical questions, challenge assumptions, and advocate for vulnerable populations in new and meaningful ways.

My research focuses on improving care delivery models, addressing health disparities, and enhancing patient outcomes through evidence-based interventions. I continue to engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, contribute to scholarly publications, and present findings at local and national conferences. These experiences have enhanced my perspective on nursing science as a key driver of innovation and equity in healthcare.

As a nurse scientist, I remain committed to mentoring emerging nurse leaders, designing educational programs that inspire innovation and consistent clinical inquiry, and influencing health policy to ensure that the voices of patients and nurses are central to decision-making. The Ph.D. journey has empowered me to bridge the gap between clinical practice and research and to advocate for sustainable, patient-centered outcomes on a broader scale.

Perspective and Purpose: Lessons Learned From the Journey

Looking back, my journey from CNA to Ph.D. has given me a unique and invaluable perspective. I understand healthcare from the foundation up, from the intimate, hands-on care of a CNA to the strategic, evidence-driven work of a nurse scientist. Each step has deepened my belief that every role in nursing is vital and that true leadership is rooted in empathy, experience, and commitment to service.

My story is a testament to the power of purpose and the importance of honoring every stage of the nursing journey. It reminds me, and I hope it reminds others, that no matter where we begin, we all have the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives we touch and the systems we shape.

A Call to Reflect and Rise

Take time to reflect on the experiences that have shaped you, both the wins and the losses. Embrace the lessons learned at every stage and use them to fuel your personal and professional growth. Nursing is not just a profession; it is a lifelong commitment to learning, advocacy, and innovation.

No matter where you are on your career path, remember every role in nursing matters. Your journey is valid, your impact is real, and your potential is limitless. Let your purpose guide you and never underestimate the power of compassionate care.