In the past three years, my time in the nursing program has been nothing short of transformative. I have learned so much about healthcare, myself, and the world around me. Nursing school isn’t just about studying diseases and treatments—it’s about developing resilience, adaptability, and a deep sense of empathy. This program has pushed me beyond my limits, but it has also shaped me into the best version of myself. One of the most rewarding experiences has been my involvement in the Undergraduate Nursing Society. Through the role of VP events, I have had the opportunity to engage with faculty members, plan events for students, and foster connections both within the faculty and beyond. Being part of a student-led organization has shown me the value of community especially in a profession of nursing and how much of a difference we can make when we come together. 

When I first entered this small program, it felt lonely at the beginning. I was determined to find a sense of belonging, so in my first year, I joined a club specifically for first-year nursing students. This decision completely changed the trajectory of my university experience. Through this club and by meeting other nursing students in my classes, I built friendships that I know will last a lifetime. I realized that putting yourself out there—embracing fears rather than running from them—opens doors to incredible opportunities. Especially in a university like the University of Calgary, the world is truly in your hands. 


 

Nursing school is rigorous, no doubt about it. But how you tackle it makes all the difference! Man, time absolutely flies—you blink, and suddenly, you feel like a nurse, and nothing beats that feeling! One of the things I love about this program is the balance between theory and practice. In courses like NURS 487 and 497, we dive deep into understanding diseases and pathophysiology, while in classes like NURS 488 and 498, we learn about nursing interventions and our role in patient care. Then, in clinical placements, everything clicks! Each patient is like a puzzle, and putting the pieces together to provide the best care is so rewarding. I’ve had the chance to work with different populations—children in schools, the elderly, and patients in acute care—and every experience has shown me the profound beauty of human connection.