An ICU nurse in Michigan named Shana is pursuing her education at Walden University. She was drawn to Walden because their mission of transforming diverse nursing professionals and preparing them to be champions of change aligned with her goals. Walden's emphasis on supporting students' success through academic advancement, professional development, and lifelong learning also appealed to Shana. Walden's flexible online program allows Shana to continue working as a nurse while earning her degree and caring for her daughter. Shana recognizes the importance of networking for career advancement, and hopes to use Walden's remote networking opportunities to expand her professional connections despite living in a rural area.

1. Hello everyone, my name is Shana, and I am currently
Hello everyone, my name is Shana, and I am currently an ICU nurse in Michigan. Being a
full-time mom and a full-time nurse, accessibility and independence in school is a must. I
knew it was time for me to continue my education but needed a place that allowed me to
complete tasks based on my own schedule. After doing my research and following a few
leads from coworkers, I ended up here at Walden!In Walden’s mission statement, the
words “transform diverse nursing professionals into champions of change” stuck out the
most to me. Being a bedside nurse has made it evident that healthcare is a constant work
in progress. Change requires prepared and responsible professionals, which I aspire to be.
Walden’s goals tell me that they want to support their student’s success in these areas. One
of these goals is to “Empower diverse nursing professionals through academic
advancement that enhances personal growth, professional development, clinical reasoning,
and the desire for lifelong learning” (Walden University, 2022). This goal means that
Walden will strive to prepare me with the skills necessary to advance my clinical practice
and develop strategies to continue to improve myself. I appreciate Walden providing tools
that allow work/school balance. I can continue working and being present for my daughter
while I also have the opportunity to network with professionals who are on the
same mission. Networking is vital in progressing as a professional. In an article titled
Professional Networking in Nursing, author Kristen explores the importance of networking
in uncovering job opportunities. She says that according to a LinkedIn survey, 85% of all
jobs are secured through networking. Many of these with robust referral programs and
incentives (Hamlin, 2022). I got my current job because of a referral from one of my
nursing instructors. Living in a small rural area makes networking challenging for me, but
Angelina Walker highlights ways of networking remotely. Walker speaks specifically on
social media, stating, “With access to resources and tools, at the click of a tab, social media
is quickly becoming the number one resource for professional networking. It is one of the
most effective ways to build alliances” (2022, Walker). Social media sites like LinkedIn and
Facebook host millions of people and have proven helpful in my personal life early in my
career. Walden already incorporates some remote strategies with the class café and
Facebook page!