A few days ago someone in nursing school told me they’d never stay “just a nurse” and that they would 100% go on to get their NP degree. Then
A few days ago, a fellow nursing student confidently declared they’d never stay “just a nurse” and was determined to get their Nurse Practitioner (NP) degree. Reflecting on this, I found myself looking at a picture from my earlier days in nursing school. In that photo, I was filled with ambition, excited to conquer the nursing world. I was quick to proclaim I wouldn’t be “just a nurse.” But now, two years later, I’m starting to understand the true meaning of being “just a nurse.”
Life as a nurse has been more challenging than I ever imagined. I rarely sleep, my appearance is constantly a mess, and I’m away from home multiple nights a week despite being newly married. Still, I’ve learned so much that goes beyond the technical skills of nursing. I’ve learned to care for everyone, no matter their past, to support patients through their hardest moments, and to be there in ways I never expected—sometimes even as their hairstylist or advocate. I may eventually become an NP, but right now, I’m proud to be “just a nurse.” It’s more than enough.
