What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?

My dad was a Board-Certified Critical Care Flight Paramedic for much of my life so I grew up constantly being inspired by his stories. I had a strong desire to care for people like he did and hoped that I would someday inherit the skill set, critical thinking, and calmness like he did. My lighthearted answer is that my grandpa was in the hospital when I was in high school and I would see the nurses walk in at shift change in their scrubs and Starbucks in hand and I thought, “Someday I want to wear cute scrubs and drink Starbucks.” Since then I’ve learned we do a lot more than just wear scrubs and drink coffee!

How long have you been a member of the Wisconsin Nurses Association?

Five years.

What do you enjoy most about being a nurse?

I am a pediatric nurse and what I enjoy most is simply just taking care of the brave kiddos and their families. They are so resilient, and they inspire me every shift

Can you share a memorable experience from your nursing career?

There was one patient who was very special to me. I had the honor of taking care of him for a couple of years through his cancer journey and although it isn’t an elaborate story, it’s something I will always remember. He didn’t know I was working and at the beginning of my shift I went into his room and surprised him. When I walked in he said with the biggest smile “you’re going to be my nurse today?!” We shared a special bond and it’s something I will hold in my heart forever.

How has being a member of WNA benefited your professional development?

It has opened doors to other committees and networking! There have been many remarkable and intelligent nurses I have met who have inspired me in my career. It also led me to WNA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force which I co-chair.

What advice would you give to new nurses entering the field?

Ask your preceptor lots of questions and be open to learning. Find a nurse mentor who you can trust to talk about the good and the bad days with. Give yourself time and grace and remember you are never alone. This is an incredible profession and enjoy saying “I’m a nurse!” It never gets old.

What are your favorite ways to unwind and practice self-care?

Retail therapy, going to coffee shops, getting a manicure or facial, traveling.

How do you stay current with the latest developments and best practices in nursing?

I continue to grow and learn every day with my experiences at work and I enjoy reading the ANA monthly magazines!

What impact do you hope to make in your community through your work as a nurse?

I hope to inspire young people who are interested in a nursing career and serve as a mentor to them. I enjoy having high school and college students shadow me because I love sharing my passion!

What does being part of the WNA community mean to you?

I enjoy knowing I’m surrounded by so many incredible nurses and have a community of connections. It’s fostered growth professionally and personally. It makes me feel supported.

What’s your favorite way to spend a day off?

Sleeping in and enjoying not having to wake up at 5AM and then grabbing an iced coffee at a coffee shop.

What’s your go-to comfort food?

Have I mentioned coffee at all in this interview? Does this count for this question?! But in all seriousness, any kind of carb!

Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them!

I don’t have a pet that is solely mine, but we have a family dog, Grizz! He’s a one and half year-old English Chocolate Lab who loves eating, swimming, duck hunting, and I can’t stress enough. Eating. He is the best boy.

What’s your favorite type of music or favorite band?

I love a little bit of everything! Folk, Pop, Pop-Punk. My most listened to artists currently are Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, and Kygo. All time guilty pleasure is the Backstreet Boys and I may or may not still attend their concerts.

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever been on?

I just got back from Kaua’i so that’s fresh on my mind. The island was breathtaking!

Do you have a favorite place to eat in your hometown?

None in my hometown, but I love trying all kinds of new restaurants. My current favorites are Belfre in Delafield and The Beach House in Pewaukee!

What’s something on your bucket list that you hope to accomplish?

Open my own coffee truck and travel around to different venues/events!