I began my journey in oncology in 2013 after graduating from Case Western Reserve University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Subsequently, I was admitted to the James Cancer Hospital’s Nurse Residency and completed this year-long curriculum comprised of an extended orientation, supplemental classes, and an evidence-based practice (EBP) research project – all of which were accessory to the onset of my career as an oncology nurse. I spent approximately two and a half years working on a med-surg oncology floor, primarily with ENT and neuro-oncology patients. In October 2015, I then transitioned to working as a resource nurse in the James’ Ambulatory Surgery Unit (ASU) and Post-anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). I am so thankful and appreciative for my work opportunities as an oncology nurse as they have provided me with both inspiring and humbling patient care experiences.

In 2018, I graduated from the Ohio State University with a Master of Science degree as a nurse practitioner and became certified in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. Following graduation, I was accepted into the Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Oncology Fellowship program at the James. This fellowship is a 12-month long curriculum that rotates participating providers through Medical-Oncology, Surgical-Oncology, and Hematology-Oncology experiences. APP Fellows are further introduced to sub-specialties of oncology such as: Radiation Oncology, Palliative Care, Survivorship, Infectious Disease, among others. In addition, fellows are expected to complete an EBP project, attend weekly lectures, become an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP), and attend various conferences. I am grateful for my fellowship experience as it introduced me to the world of hematology/oncology – a dimension of healthcare that was previously unknown to me.

I believe my fellowship experiences augment my ability as an oncology nurse practitioner. Having exposure to departments such as radiation oncology, palliative care, infectious disease, and survivorship will heighten my ability to treat hematology-oncology patients — including lymphoma patients. Another professional development that I believe will leverage my potential as an oncology nurse practitioner is my active pursuit of a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I am currently in the midst of my fourth semester in this part-time program and will graduate in May of 2021. I have also enrolled in the Nurse Educator certificate program. I believe that this will supplement my DNP education by helping me to become an informed provider for my patients and a capable preceptor for students/orientees. I view these educational programs as the scholastic pinnacle of my chosen career path. An advanced education will result in further positive outcomes for the betterment of my patients as well as for my future colleagues.

All of my professional experiences have made me into the person I am today: a compassionate and empathetic nurse practitioner. I have grown more as a person in these last ~7 years of working at a cancer hospital then perhaps in the other years of my life combined – on both a personal and professional level. Oncology has taught me to think and feel, have joy in a patient’s remission, or feel heartache if their outcome is not so fortunate. I aspire to end each day knowing I’ve done my personal best — that I may have touched the life of a patient just as acutely as they have enriched mine. It is humbling to work with this inspirational group of people, their families, and all staff at the James.