essay on how to become a nurse

Essay Sample on Why I Want to Be A Nurse

Nursing is a rewarding and challenging career that has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether your motivation is to help others, attain financial freedom, or both, writing a “Why I Want To Be A Nurse” essay is an excellent opportunity to express your passion and commitment to the field.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why you might want to become a nurse and provide you with helpful tips and inspiration for writing a powerful and persuasive essay .

Why I Want to Be A Nurse (Free Essay Sample)

Nursing is a career that offers a unique combination of hands-on care and emotional support to those in need. There are many reasons why someone might choose to become a nurse, including:

The Empathy and Altruism of Nursing

I have a strong desire to help people and hope to become a nurse. I think nursing is the best way for me to make a difference in other people’s lives because it combines my natural empathy and desire to help people. Nursing gives me a chance to positively touch people’s lives, which has always attracted me to the thought of doing so.

I saw the beneficial effects that nurses may have on people’s life as a child. I have always been moved by the kindness and concern they have for their patients. The small gestures of kindness, like holding a patient’s hand or speaking encouraging words, have always touched me. I think nurses have a special power to change people’s lives and leave a lasting impression, and I want to contribute to that.

Additionally, I think that becoming a nurse is a great and selfless job. To provide for their patients and ensure they are secure and comfortable, nurses put their own needs on hold. I absolutely respect this kind of dedication to helping others, and I aim to exhibit it in my own nursing career.

The Economic Benefits of Nursing

The financial stability that comes with being a nurse is one of the reasons I wish to pursue this career. Nursing is a field that is in high demand, which translates to a wealth of job opportunities and competitive salaries.  This profession offers the chance for a stable income, which makes it a good choice for people who want to secure their financial future.

Nursing not only gives economic freedom but also a flexible work schedule that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Many nurses can choose to work part-time or in a variety of places, such as clinics, hospitals, and schools..

A Love for the Science and Art of Nursing

To succeed in the unique field of nursing, one must have both artistic talent and scientific knowledge. This mix is what initially drew me to the thought of becoming a nurse. The human body and its mechanisms have always captivated me, and I enjoy learning about the science that underpins healthcare. But nursing requires more than just a scientific knowledge of the body. It also requires an artistic understanding of the patient and their needs.. Nursing is a demanding and fulfilling job since it combines science and art, which is why I’m drawn to it.

I saw as a child the effect nurses had on patients and their families. Their compassion and understanding have motivated me to seek a profession in nursing because they frequently offer comfort and help in the hardest of situations. My enthusiasm for the science and art of nursing will undoubtedly help me to have a good influence on other people’s lives. I want to work as a nurse and improve the lives of the people I take care of, whether it be by giving medication, educating patients, or just being a reassuring presence.

Continuous Professional Development in Nursing

I think the nursing industry is dynamic and always changing, which gives people a lot of chances to learn and grow. I would have the chance to continuously advance my knowledge and abilities in this sector if I choose to become a nurse. In turn, this would enable me to better care for my patients and stay abreast of professional developments.

There are several different nursing specialties available as well. There are many options, including critical care, pediatrics, gerontology, and surgical nursing. Because of the variety of disciplines available, nurses have the chance to develop their interests and find their niche. 

I am certain that a career in nursing will provide me the chance to pursue my passion for healthcare while also allowing me to grow professionally.

Nursing is a fulfilling and noble career that offers a mix of hands-on care, emotional support, and professional growth. I am inspired by the positive impact nurses have on patients and their families and aim to offer my own empathy and compassion. The nursing industry is constantly changing, providing ample opportunities for growth and job prospects with financial stability. The ultimate reward in a nursing career is the satisfaction of making a difference in people’s lives.

Tips for Writing A Compelling Why I Want To Be A Nurse Essay

Now that you understand the reasons why someone might want to become a nurse, it’s time to learn how to write a compelling essay. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get started:

Create an Outline

Before you start writing, it’s important to identify the main points you’ll discuss in your essay. This will help you stay organized and make your essay easier to read.

Start with an Attention-grabbing Introduction

Your introduction is your chance to make a good first impression and engage the reader. Start with a hook that captures the reader’s attention, such as a surprising statistic or personal story .

Be Specific and Personal

Rather than making general statements about why you want to become a nurse, be specific and personal. Share your own experiences, motivations, and passions, and explain why nursing is the right career choice for you.

Highlight your Skills and Qualifications

Nursing is a demanding and complex profession that requires a wide range of skills and qualifications. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills, such as compassion, communication, and problem-solving, and explain how they make you a good fit for the nursing field.

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What to include: why i want to be a nurse essay.

Why do you want to be a nurse? What is your reason for entering the nursing profession? What drives you?

You will face these questions multiple times throughout your career, but there are two occasions in which answering them could actually define your career.

The first is when you apply to nursing school. You may be asked to complete an essay outlining why you want to become a nurse.

The second time is when you apply for a nursing position and answer that question as part of the interview process.

Whether you're applying for a nursing program or job, it's important to know how to address this question and what sort of answers work best.

What To Include In Your Nursing Essay

To create the perfect nursing essay, one that can help you get into nursing school or find your first job, follow the steps below:

Plan Your Nurse Essay

Before you start writing your nursing essay, think about what you want to include.

Jot down ideas that express your passion for the nursing profession, as well as any personal or familiar experience that led you to take this step.

Be honest. Be open. Summarize your story, highlight your goals, and think about what the nursing profession means to you.

All of these things will be important when structuring your essay.

Show an Emotional Connection to the Profession

Do you have any family members that worked as nurses or doctors? Did you care for a loved one during an illness? Did you require a lot of care at some point in your life?

If so, this should be your lead, and it's probably the most important part of your essay.

Nursing is a lucrative career. You can make a decent salary, enter numerous specialties, and even progress to opening your own practice. There is also a national nursing shortage, so you'll also have plenty of opportunities if you're willing to learn and work. But interviewers don't want to hear that you became a nurse to earn good money and pick up lots of overtime.

Think of it in the context of a talent show. We know that the contestants are there to get famous and make lots of money. But when they stand in front of the camera and appeal for votes, they talk about deceased parents/grandparents, changing their family's life for the better, and making a difference in the world.

It's easy to sympathize with someone who wants to follow in the footsteps of a beloved mother or make a grandparent proud. It's not as easy to sympathize with someone who just wants to drive a Bugatti and wear a Rolex.

Examples  :

"My mother is a nurse practitioner. I can see how happy the role makes her and how much it has changed her. I have looked up to her throughout my life and have always wanted to follow in her footsteps."

"I cared for my father when he was ill. I was able to comfort him and assist him in his time of need, and while it was very challenging, it always felt right to me and it's something I would love to do as a career."

Show That You Care

Like all health care workers, nurses are devoted to healing the sick. If you're not a people person, it's probably not the profession for you.

Make it clear that you're a caring person and are willing to devote your life to healing sick people. A good nurse also knows how to comfort distraught family members, so you may want to include this in your essay as well.

If you have any examples of times when you have helped others, include them. This is a good time to talk about volunteer work, as well as other occasions in which you have devoted your time to helping strangers.

"I feel a great sense of pride working with families and patients through difficult times. I like to know that I am making a difference in the lives of others."

"I want to become a nurse so that I can help others in their time of need. I chose nursing as a profession because I feel a great sense of accomplishment when helping others".

Share Your Aspirations

What are your goals for your nursing career? Do you want to become a nurse practitioner? Do you want to specialize as a nurse anesthetist, a critical care nurse, or focus more on pediatrics?

Nurses work across a range of specialties, and it's important to show that you are interested in continuing your education and developing to your full potential.

The goal is to show that you are determined. You are driven to succeed and to better yourself.

If you're just taking your first steps as a nursing student, now is a good time to research into specialties and get an idea of how you want your career to progress.

"I have always been drawn to the nursing profession because it's challenging, demanding, and interesting. I want to push myself every day, engaging my academic interests and satisfying my need to learn and improve as a person."

Describe Your Nursing Skills and Qualifications

If you're applying for an accelerated nursing program or a new nursing job, the interviewer will have access to your qualifications. But they won't know what those qualifications mean to you, what you learned from them, and how you can use them in your career.

It's about problem-solving skills, as well as academic work. It's about experience and personal growth, as well as knowledge acquisition.

This is a good time to talk about internships.

How Do You Write an Introduction to a Nurse Essay?

Starting is always the hardest part, but it's best not to overthink it.

Just start writing about why you want to become a nurse. Don't overthink it. Don't worry too much about the first word or sentence. Everything can be edited, and if you spend too long thinking about those first words, you'll never finish the essay.

Keep it simple, check your work, and edit it until it's perfect and says exactly what you want it to say.

How to Write an Essay About Why I Want to Become A Nurse

Writing about why you want to be a nurse is your chance to tell your unique story. It’s not just about listing your qualities or experiences – it’s about showing the person behind those things.

Your essay should paint a picture of who you are, why nursing speaks to you, and how you’ll make a difference in people’s lives as a nurse.

In this guide, How to Write an Essay About Why I Want to Become A Nurse, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to write a stellar essay about why you want to become a nurse. We’ll cover what to include, how to start strong, common themes to explore, and tips to make your essay stand out.

So let’s dive in and get you on your way to nursing school!

Table of Contents

Why I Want to Become a Nurse: Crafting a Compelling Nurse Essay

What should i include in my nurse essay.

When you sit down to write your essay on why you want to become a nurse, there are a few key elements you’ll want to include. These will help create a well-rounded picture of you as a future nurse.

Key Elements of a Strong Personal Statement

• Your motivation: Explain what drew you to nursing in the first place. Was it a personal experience? A role model? A desire to help others?
• Your qualities: Highlight the traits you have that would make you a great nurse, like compassion, attention to detail, or ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Your experiences: Share any relevant experiences you’ve had, whether it’s volunteering at a hospital, caring for a family member, or shadowing a nurse.
• Your goals: Talk about what you hope to achieve as a nurse and how this aligns with your personal values.
• Your understanding of nursing: Show that you know what nursing really involves – both the rewards and the challenges.

How to Articulate Your Desire to Help People

One of the most common reasons people choose nursing is the desire to help others. But how do you express this in a way that doesn’t sound cliché? Here are some tips:

• Be specific: Instead of just saying “I want to help people,” give examples of how you want to help. For instance, “I want to provide comfort to patients during their most vulnerable moments.”
• Share a story: If you have a personal experience that sparked your desire to help, tell that story. It could be about a time you or a loved one received great care from a nurse.
• Connect it to nursing: Explain why you believe nursing is the best way for you to help others. What about nursing specifically appeals to you?

What Makes Nursing a Unique Profession?

In your essay, it’s good to show that you understand what sets nursing apart from other healthcare professions. Here are some unique aspects of nursing you might want to touch on:

• Patient advocacy: Nurses often act as a voice for their patients, ensuring their needs are met.
• Holistic care: Nurses care for the whole person – not just their physical health, but their emotional and mental well-being too.
• Constant learning: The medical field is always changing, and nurses are lifelong learners.
• Versatility: Nursing offers many different specialties and work environments.
• Human connection: Nurses often form meaningful bonds with patients and their families.

How Do I Start My Essay on Wanting to Be a Nurse?

The beginning of your essay is crucial – it’s your chance to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading. Here are some tips for crafting a strong introduction:

Crafting an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

• Start with a hook: This could be a surprising fact about nursing, a powerful quote, or a thought-provoking question.
• Share a vivid anecdote: Begin with a short story that illustrates why you’re drawn to nursing.
• State your purpose clearly: Within the first paragraph, make it clear that you’re explaining why you want to become a nurse.
• Keep it concise: Your introduction should be engaging but brief – aim for 3-5 sentences.

Here’s an example of how you might start your essay:

“The steady beep of the heart monitor, the hushed voices of concerned family members, and the gentle reassurance of a nurse – these are the sounds that first drew me to the world of nursing. It was during my grandmother’s hospital stay that I witnessed firsthand the profound impact a compassionate nurse can have on a patient’s journey. From that moment, I knew I wanted to become a nurse and make that same difference in people’s lives.”

Sharing Your Personal Journey in Nursing

Your essay should tell the story of how you came to choose nursing as your career path. This personal journey is unique to you and is what will make your essay stand out. Here are some questions to help you reflect on your journey:

• When did you first become interested in nursing?
• Was there a specific moment or experience that confirmed this was the right path for you?
• How have your experiences so far (volunteering, coursework, etc.) shaped your understanding of nursing?
• What challenges have you faced on your path to nursing, and how have you overcome them?

What Motivated You to Choose Nursing?

There are many reasons why someone might choose nursing as a career. Reflecting on your personal motivations will help make your essay more authentic and compelling. Some common motivations include:

• A desire to make a difference in people’s lives
• Interest in healthcare and medicine
• Personal experience with illness or caregiving
• Admiration for a nurse role model
• The variety and opportunities within the nursing field
• Job security and career growth potential

Remember, it’s okay to have multiple motivations. The key is to explain them honestly and show how they’ve shaped your decision to become a nurse.

What Are Common Themes in a ‘Become a Nurse’ Essay?

While every nursing essay is unique, there are some common themes that often come up. Including these in your essay can help demonstrate your understanding of what it means to be a nurse.

The Importance of Making a Difference in People’s Lives

One of the most rewarding aspects of nursing is the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives. In your essay, you might want to:

• Describe a time when you saw a nurse make a difference
• Explain how you hope to impact patients’ lives as a nurse
• Discuss why making a difference is important to you personally

For example: “I’ve always been drawn to professions where I can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. In nursing, I see the opportunity to do this every day – whether it’s easing a patient’s pain, providing emotional support to a worried family member, or educating someone about managing their health condition.”

Discussing Goals in Nursing as Part of Your Career Path

Your essay should not only explain why you want to become a nurse but also touch on your future goals in the nursing field. This shows that you’re thinking long-term and are committed to growing in your career. Some goals you might discuss:

• Specializing in a particular area of nursing (e.g., pediatrics, oncology, critical care)
• Pursuing advanced education to become a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist
• Taking on leadership roles in healthcare
• Contributing to nursing research or education

Here’s how you might incorporate this: “While my immediate goal is to become a registered nurse and gain experience in a hospital setting, I’m excited about the many paths a nursing career can take. In the future, I hope to specialize in pediatric nursing and perhaps even pursue a role as a pediatric nurse practitioner. I’m drawn to the idea of building long-term relationships with young patients and their families, supporting them through various stages of growth and health.”

Incorporating Experiences that Influenced Your Decision

Personal experiences often play a big role in the decision to become a nurse. Sharing these experiences in your essay can make it more personal and impactful. These might include:

• Volunteering at a hospital or clinic
• Caring for a sick family member
• Overcoming a personal health challenge
• Shadowing a nurse or other healthcare professional
• Participating in a health-related school program

When sharing these experiences, focus on what you learned and how they confirmed or shaped your desire to become a nurse. For instance: “Last summer, I volunteered at a local community health clinic. I was amazed by the nurses’ ability to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing not just medical care but also education and emotional support. This experience reinforced my desire to become a nurse and showed me the importance of cultural competence in healthcare.”

How Can I Make My Nursing Scholarship Essay Stand Out?

With so many passionate aspiring nurses applying to nursing schools, it’s important to make your essay stand out. Here are some strategies to help your nursing scholarship essay shine:

Highlighting Unique Personal Experiences

While many applicants may have similar motivations for wanting to become a nurse, your personal experiences are unique to you. Use these to your advantage:

• Share specific stories that shaped your decision to pursue nursing
• Describe how you’ve already started preparing for a nursing career
• Discuss any challenges you’ve overcome on your path to nursing

For example: “Growing up in a rural community with limited access to healthcare, I saw firsthand the critical role nurses play in maintaining community health. From organizing vaccination drives to providing home care for elderly residents, the nurses in my town were true healthcare heroes. Their dedication inspired me to want to bring that same level of care to underserved communities as a nurse.”

Connecting Your Goals to the Nursing Profession

Show how your personal goals align with the nursing profession:

• Explain how nursing will help you fulfill your passion for helping others
• Discuss how your strengths and interests fit with specific areas of nursing
• Share your vision for how you want to contribute to the nursing field

Here’s an example: “My goal is not just to treat illnesses, but to promote overall well-being. I’m particularly interested in preventive care and patient education. As a nurse, I hope to empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their health, potentially preventing serious illnesses before they occur.”

What to Avoid in Your Nursing Scholarship Essay

While it’s important to know what to include in your essay, it’s equally crucial to know what to avoid:

• Clichés: Avoid overused phrases like “I’ve always wanted to be a nurse” without providing specific reasons or experiences.
• Negativity: Don’t speak negatively about other healthcare professions or complain about past experiences.
• Exaggeration: Be honest about your experiences and motivations. Admissions committees can often spot insincerity.
• Too much focus on money or job security: While these are valid considerations, your essay should primarily focus on your passion for nursing and desire to help others.
• Irrelevant information: Stay focused on experiences and qualities relevant to nursing.
• Errors: Proofread carefully to avoid spelling and grammar mistakes.

Why Is It Important to Share Your Passion for Nursing?

Your passion for nursing is what will drive you through the challenges of nursing school and a nursing career. It’s important to convey this passion in your essay because it shows your commitment to the field.

Demonstrating Your Commitment to the Nursing Field

Show your dedication to nursing by:

• Discussing any steps you’ve already taken towards becoming a nurse (volunteering, relevant coursework, certifications)
• Explaining how you plan to continue growing and learning in the nursing field
• Sharing your long-term vision for your nursing career

For instance: “My commitment to nursing goes beyond just wanting a stable career. I’ve already started preparing by volunteering at a local hospital, taking advanced biology courses, and getting certified in CPR. I’m excited to continue this journey in nursing school and beyond, always striving to provide the best possible care for my future patients.”

How Passion Influences Your Nursing Career

Explain how your passion will make you a better nurse:

• Discuss how your enthusiasm will help you overcome challenges
• Explain how your passion will benefit your future patients
• Share how your dedication will contribute to the nursing profession as a whole

Here’s an example: “My passion for nursing isn’t just about personal fulfillment – it’s about the impact I can have on my patients. I believe that when you’re truly passionate about what you do, it shows in the quality of care you provide. My enthusiasm for nursing will drive me to stay updated on the latest medical advancements, to always go the extra mile for my patients, and to be a positive force in the healthcare team.”

Stories of Impact: Making a Difference in Healthcare

Share stories that illustrate the impact nurses can have:

• Describe a time when you witnessed a nurse making a significant difference
• Discuss a healthcare issue you’re passionate about addressing as a nurse
• Share your vision of how you hope to impact healthcare in your career

For example: “During my hospital volunteer experience, I saw a nurse sit with a scared child before surgery, explaining the procedure with patience and kindness. The child’s fear visibly melted away. This moment crystallized for me the profound impact nurses can have, not just on physical health, but on emotional well-being too. As a nurse, I hope to provide this level of holistic care, making a difference in my patients’ lives one interaction at a time.”

What Are the Next Steps After Writing My Nurse Essay?

Once you’ve written your essay, your work isn’t quite done. Here are the next steps to ensure your essay is the best it can be:

Editing and Revising for Clarity and Impact

• Take a break: Step away from your essay for a day or two, then come back to it with fresh eyes.
• Read it out loud: This can help you catch awkward phrasing or sentences that don’t flow well.
• Check for clarity: Make sure each paragraph has a clear main point that supports your overall message.
• Eliminate redundancy: Look for places where you’ve repeated ideas and consolidate them.
• Strengthen your language: Replace vague words with more specific, impactful ones.
• Proofread: Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Seeking Feedback from Nursing Professionals

Getting input from people in the nursing field can be incredibly valuable:

• Ask a nurse you know to read your essay. They can provide insight into whether you’ve accurately represented the profession.
• If possible, have a nursing school admissions counselor review your essay. They can give you an idea of how it compares to other essays they’ve seen.
• Consider having an English teacher or writing tutor look over your essay for structure and clarity.

Remember, while feedback is helpful, make sure the essay still sounds like you. Don’t let others’ suggestions overshadow your unique voice.

Preparing for the Nursing School Application Process

Your essay is just one part of your nursing school application. Here are some other steps to prepare:

• Research schools: Look into the specific requirements for each nursing program you’re interested in.
• Gather transcripts: Request official transcripts from all previous schools.
• Secure recommendations: Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or volunteer supervisors who can speak to your potential as a nurse.
• Prepare for interviews: Many nursing programs require interviews. Practice answering common questions about why you want to be a nurse.
• Plan for prerequisites: Make sure you’ve completed or are enrolled in all required prerequisite courses.
• Consider finances: Look into scholarship opportunities and financial aid options.

Remember, the application process can be lengthy, so start early and stay organized. Your thoughtful, well-crafted essay on why you want to become a nurse will be a strong foundation for your application.

Related Article

Essay On Why I Want To Become A Nurse

FAQs on How to Write an Essay About Why I Want to Become A Nurse

How do you write an introduction for a nursing essay.

To write a strong introduction for your nursing essay, start with an attention-grabbing opening like a relevant quote, a surprising statistic about nursing, or a brief personal anecdote. Then, clearly state your purpose – explain that you’re writing about why you want to become a nurse. Briefly outline the main points you’ll cover in your essay. Keep it concise, aiming for 3-5 sentences that set the tone for the rest of your essay.

Why do you dream of becoming a nurse?

I dream of becoming a nurse because I want to make a tangible difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments. Nursing offers a unique opportunity to combine my passion for science and healthcare with my desire to provide compassionate care. I’m drawn to the challenges and rewards of the nursing profession, the opportunity for continuous learning, and the chance to be a crucial part of the healthcare team.

Why am I motivated to be a nurse?

I’m motivated to be a nurse for several reasons. Firstly, I have a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact on people’s lives. Secondly, I’m fascinated by the human body and medical science, and nursing allows me to apply this knowledge practically. Additionally, I value the versatility of the nursing profession – the various specialties and work environments offer opportunities for continual growth and learning. Lastly, my personal experiences with healthcare have shown me the crucial role nurses play, and I want to be part of that important work.

Why do I love to be a nurse?

 Nursing offers the opportunity to directly impact people’s lives in meaningful ways every day. I would love the chance to provide comfort and care to patients, to be an advocate for their needs, and to work as part of a healthcare team. The constant learning and growth in nursing is exciting to me, as is the ability to specialize in areas that particularly interest me. Most of all, I would love knowing that my work as a nurse would make a real difference in people’s lives.

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• December 27, 2022

How to Write: Why I Want to Be a Nurse Essay

The Why I Want to Be a Nurse essay is one of the most common components on nursing school applications. There are tons of reasons to become a nurse, but yours are unique – a good nursing essay will stand out and be remembered by those who read it. In addition to general admission, this could even be your ticket to some scholarships for nursing school!

Let’s dive into how to write your Why I Want to Be a Nurse essay and get you into nursing school!

Planning Your Nursing Essay

Before you get into writing anything, you should always complete your pre-writing phase of brainstorming and planning for what you want to write about. Only then can you start considering your structure and details that you want to include.

Step 1: Brainstorm an event or a list of moments that began your interest in nursing.

If this is a lifelong dream, then maybe you can’t remember when you first became interested in nursing. But what moments have helped you continue down this path?

Some people may not have a specific healthcare related experience that inspired them to take this path. That’s okay! You can think broadly and consider times you were satisfied by helping someone with a task or volunteered.

Haven’t taken a writing class in a hot minute? Here are some effective strategies for brainstorming your ideas.

Step 2: Consider what you did to learn more about nursing.

Think about when you began researching nursing as a viable career option. What made nursing more appealing than a different career?

Step 3: Write down what made you decide to choose nursing as a career path.

If you can boil your reasoning down to a sentence or two, then that will be the thesis for your Why I Chose Nursing essay.

What to Include: Why I Want to Be a Nurse Essay

Introduction: your hook and story.

Your test scores and transcripts tell the story of your technical aptitude. But your essay is an opportunity to give your application an emotional route. What experiences have made you passionate about nursing? Have you cared for sick loved ones before? Are there nurses in your family?

Your introduction is where you’ll explain the stake that you have in this. You want the admissions team to understand that you belong in the program. Not just that you have the academic qualifications, but that you’ll be an asset to the entire nursing profession.

In kindergarten, there was an accident while my family was camping. A pot of boiling water tipped over onto my leg. The burns were so bad that I had to be airlifted to a regional hospital. I don’t remember much of the incident itself today, but I remember the nurses who helped me recover. They turned a frightening experience into something much kinder. I want to be able to give that to a child by working as a pediatric nurse.

Paragraph 1: Detail the event or moment you became interested in nursing.

This is a paragraph where you really want to reel the reader in. You’ve hooked them with the broad overview of your story: what sets you apart, why you’re so interested in the nursing profession. Now you can detail a specific moment.

Pick one moment and capture it in as much detail as you can. For example, maybe you remember waiting in a hospital for news about a loved one. Perhaps it was the kindness of a nurse who treated you. Or, in contrast, it was a time that a nurse wasn’t kind, and it made you want to do better for a patient in need.

Despite spending several weeks in the hospital, I didn’t immediately develop a desire to become a nurse. Growing up, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life. Then in my sophomore year of high school, my neighbor’s son got sick. He was about the same age as I had been when I was in the hospital. When I babysat him, we would swap hospital stories — the good and the bad! And suddenly it dawned on me that if I was a nurse, I could help make those bad stories a little less painful.

Paragraph 2-3: Show how you have used that experience to build your foundation towards nursing school.

Here is where you’ll take your personal experiences into account. Nursing school requires more than just empathy. You will need to have core science credits and an ability to understand the human body. The best nurses are adaptable in the workplace and always willing to learn. You can browse a list of skills nurses need to thrive in the workplace.

I spent a lot of time researching my neighbor’s son’s condition. Though his illness wasn’t terminal, it was degenerative. He began to lose his hearing a few months after his diagnosis. I joined his father in learning sign language to communicate better. During that time period, I spent a lot of time thinking about how so many people have to struggle so hard to communicate.

I want to be a nurse who can give relief to the most vulnerable patients. Every person’s needs are different. A child’s needs are different from a developmentally disabled adult’s, which are different from the needs of someone hard of hearing, and so forth. I’ve seen firsthand the frustration that occurs when communication isn’t easy. So I’ve focused on learning adaptable communication methods and educating myself about the groups that are most overlooked in hospital settings.

Paragraphs 4-5: Detail how you will use your strengths and skills in your nursing career.

This is the point at which you can start to talk about your specific skills, similar to a job interview. You want to highlight any particularly unique aspects, then make sure to solidly establish your core competency. A dream of becoming a nurse can’t just be a dream; you need detail to back it up.

If you know where you want to place your specific focus as a nurse, mention it! Talk about your career goals and how you want to work with your patients and what you hope to learn in doing so.

I think it’s so important for patients to have a nurse that listens to them, and that goes doubly for patients with communication struggles. During my career, I want to continue practicing and using ASL with my patients. I want to improve the quality of care for chronically ill people, especially because so many report anxiety around healthcare settings.

It’s also important to me to keep learning and adapting constantly. I never want to stop learning new skills and refreshing my knowledge. Understanding a patient’s vital signs and demeanor could mean the difference between life and death. In the high-pressure environment of nursing, I strive to have the answers to the questions my patients have – I’ll never stop seeking knowledge.

Conclusion: Reiterate your skills and qualifications, saying why they’d make you a great fit for the program.

The conclusion is fairly straightforward. You’ve provided your thesis: why you want to be a nurse. You’ve explained when the desire started, what experiences support it, and what you plan for the future. Now you just need to tie those things together in a neat summary. Remind the admissions team of why you’re a unique candidate to fit this role.

A long stay in the hospital as a child doesn’t qualify me to be a nurse by itself. But that experience has laid the foundation for my desire to work in healthcare settings. There are a thousand careers that help people, but nursing is personal and dear to me. I want to make sure that any vulnerable patient has access to the care they need, and I can use my adaptability and communication skills to do that.

Related: Stay Organized for the School Year with These Nursing School Planners

Do’s and Don’t’s for Nursing School Essays

Do: Show that you care about people.

Illustrate that you want to help people and have compassion for their suffering. It helps to talk about specific people or groups of people that you care for.

Do: Explain the qualifications that will make you a good fit as a nurse.

Talk about your adaptability, your desire to learn, your interest in the healthcare field, your prior experience – anything that will serve you during your career.

Do: Tell admissions why you want to be a part of their program.

Find a unique aspect of the program to highlight, showing why you want to study there specifically. For example, maybe there’s a school that connects students to underserved rural areas and this is a mission that you are on board with. Spend some time researching the nursing program to be confident in what they offer.

Do: Ask someone to proofread.

You’ll miss typos in your work if you read it a thousand times, so ask for a fresh pair of eyes. It also helps to change the essay to a different font for editing. Here are some more tips to consider offering to your proofreader.

Don’t: Pay for a writing service.

Write your own paper. If you’re worried about your skills, have a peer take a look at your draft, rather than using someone else’s work.

Don’t: Make false claims.

Tell the truth about your motivations, goals, strengths, and driving factors. Don’t make up a backstory or pretend to have skills you don’t.

Don’t: Disregard instructions or criteria.

Pay careful attention to the essay prompt and the criteria. Sometimes you’re expected to answer in less than 300 words, or there are more specific prompts to follow.

Related: Can Nurses Have Tattoos?

Why I Want To Be a Nurse Essay – FAQ

What should i include in a short essay on why i want to be a nurse.

A short essay should still include the main points made here – a short story or introduction, why you became interested in nursing and how that experience has propelled you into nursing, and the skills and experience you will bring to the program.

Should I give more than one reason on why I want to be a nurse?

You should aim to stick with one or two main reasons why you chose nursing – too many reasons will lead to a less effective essay due to a difficulty in following along with your main points.

What do I do if I don’t have a personal story that inspired me to want to become a nurse?

Even if your inspiration is not specific to nursing, you should be ready to tie that into why it’s related to a nursing career. Focus on experiences that required interpersonal skills, great communication skills, or show care for others.

The Why I Want to Be a Nurse essay is your chance to stand out from the crowd. You can show your dedication, compassion, and willingness to learn all through being honest. Just make sure you have your essay proofread before you send it!

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Tips for Writing Your Nursing Program College Essays

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Giebien Na in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

The importance of your college essays, general advice for writing your nursing essays.

If you know you want to be a nurse, you probably have quite a few reasons for that. Instead of merely relying on your academic and test performances to tell your story, you get the opportunity in your essays to share exactly why you’re so passionate about nursing. Writing about this can be a clarifying and even exciting process. This article explains why college application essays matter and how you should write about why you want to become a nurse.

Grades and test scores matter when you’re applying to college, but your essays can help improve your chances of admission. They’re how you can express your experiences and make your desire to become a nurse clear and personal.

If your prospective school doesn’t have supplemental essays, it’s a good idea to include your interest in nursing in your Common App essay . This could mean that you end up with two different drafts of the essay: one for if there are supplemental essays where you can discuss your interests in nursing and one for if there are not. You’ll change them out depending on whether you also have to respond to specific prompts about why you want to pursue nursing. This may not sound like much fun, but it will help you be admitted to your school of choice.

It might seem exciting to apply to a place where you don’t have to write extra essays—it’s less work! If you don’t do that additional work, though, you’ll have fewer chances to explain yourself. You might not be able to share exactly why you think that you’re the right fit for a certain college or program. 

If you are writing supplemental essays for the colleges that you’re interested in, you can include more details about your passion for nursing. You’ll often be asked, “why this major?” or “why this school?” When you have those opportunities to share your specific reasons, you can let yourself get personal and go deep into your passion. Use that space to share important details about who you are.

Start Broad

When writing essays entirely about why you want to pursue nursing , try to start from a broad interest, then slowly work your way to telling specific personal stories and goals. 

When first thinking about your general interest in nursing, ask yourself what attracts you to the work of being a nurse. This can lead to powerful potential responses. Maybe you like taking care of people in the community. Perhaps you’ve always known that you wanted to make a difference in the healthcare profession, but you don’t want to be a doctor. You’d rather make patients’ healthcare experiences as comfortable and pleasant as possible. 

After you’ve described these broad, overarching motivations for wanting to go into nursing, consider any personal experiences that have made you want to be a nurse. Think about moments you’ve had during hospital visits or checkups or an anecdote from a time that you decided to volunteer in a healthcare role. Once you’ve written these stories, you can end the essay by discussing your planned major and career goals.

Discuss Your Future Goals

If you know what your end goal is, be sure to include it. You can write about becoming a registered nurse or maybe a nurse practitioner. It doesn’t have to be set in stone , but sharing a final ambition can help anchor your personal narrative. Writing about the future that you want can help the admissions officer reading your essay see how you view yourself. If they can do this, they’ll better understand your values and motivations and see you as a real candidate for their school. 

You don’t have to follow this pattern exactly. For example, it can be powerful to begin your essay in the middle of the action—you can dive right into an anecdote and get the reader interested in your story from the jump. 

While you should avoid dramatization, starting with a few clear, memorable scenes or a line or two of dialogue can make for an instantly interesting essay. All of this helps you show your passion, rather than simply explaining what intrigues you about a nursing career. 

Once you’ve led with your narrative, though, remember to ground it in clear reasons for your intended career and what you want your future to look like. A good essay will be balanced between the past, present, and future. It’s how a college will see who you are and everything that you have to offer.

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Writing a Nursing Career Goals Essay + Example

Career planning matters more before deciding to become a student nurse and eventually a practicing nurse (RN). Whether you are just beginning your career as a nurse or looking to scale to greater heights, writing a nursing career goals essay enables you articulate their aspirations, motivations, and plans for the future. A career goals essay comes in handy when applying to a nursing program, seeking a scholarship, or preparing for a job interview. It is always an effective tool to communicate your commitment to the nursing profession.

When you know your short- and long-term goals, you will always find it easy to write an essay on your career goals. For most nurses, the goals are never out of the ordinary. Rather, they include stuff like patient-centered care, changing the lives of patients, and taking more responsibilities in that regard.

For most nurses, even the most experienced ones, composing a career goals essay might not be as easy as it sounds. The process needs you to reflect your life, plan your future, and articulate how you plan to do the same. This quick guide will help you write an irresistible career goals essay that clearly articulates what you want in your nursing career journey.

What is a Career Goals Essay?

A nursing career goals essay outlines an individual’s (nursing student, prospective nursing student, or a nurse practitioner) goals, aspirations, and plans related to their nursing career. It is a roadmap for your nursing career. The essay highlights the steps needed to achieve short, medium, and long-term career goals. It is a critical tool for self-reflection and for personal and professional development.

This essay typically serves several purposes, such as applying to nursing programs, seeking scholarships, or preparing for job interviews.

When you have a solid career goals essay, the admissions committee from various nursing schools will notice you. It sets you apart from other applicants, allowing you the privilege of making the cut to the top-preferred candidates, even for a job opportunity.

A nursing career goals essay is important for various reasons, including:

• Self-Reflection. Writing this essay encourages you to reflect on your career path, motivations, and aspirations.
• Clarity of Purpose. The essay helps clarify how your goals align with your professional values.
• Communication Skills. A solid career goals essay demonstrates your ability to articulate your thoughts and ambitions clearly and concisely, a vital skill in nursing. You get the chance to articulate your goals and objectives as regards your nursing career.
• Stand Out. A well-written essay can help you stand out in applications or interviews, providing insights into your personality, commitment, and vision for your nursing career. You will get into a nursing school of your dreams seamlessly.
• Motivation. A well-crafted career goals essay helps you to stay focused on achieving your goals. It can help you manage time by prioritizing things that matter for given periods in your life. For instance, you can decide to continue your education or become a researcher.

Related: How to write a nursing career plan essay.

Components of a Nursing Career Goals Essay

For you to convey your message in the essay, ensure that you structure your career goals essay into three parts: introduction, main body, and conclusion.

The three-part classic essay structure helps your career goals essay to be informative, engaging, and organized.

Here are some key components to include in your nursing career goals essay:

• Introduction:
• Start with a hook to grab the reader's attention.
• Introduce your interest in nursing.
• Briefly outline what the essay will cover.
• Background:
• Share your personal journey toward nursing.
• Highlight any relevant experiences, such as education, volunteer work, or personal encounters with healthcare.
• Short-Term Goals:
• Describe your immediate career goals, such as obtaining a nursing degree or passing the NCLEX.
• Explain why these goals are important for your professional development.
• Discuss your aspirations for the future, such as specialized nursing roles, advanced practice, or leadership positions.
• Highlight how you plan to achieve these goals, including any further education or training.
• Conclusion:
• Reiterate your passion for nursing and commitment to your goals.
• End with a powerful statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

What to include in Your Nursing Career Goals Essay

Like a personal essay, a career goals essay should reflect your motivation, aspirations, experiences, and timelines. However, instead of narrating how you will use your nursing knowledge, training, and education to further your career, you should detail the short and long-term goals. An officer assessing your nursing career goals essay primarily focuses on establishing evidence of your readiness and motivation for the graduate level task. You should include the points below to increase your chances of sounding great:

• Describe your motivation for pursuing a career in nursing. What inspired you to choose this profession?
• Discuss the short-term goals that will help you achieve the long-term goals. If you have medium-term goals, also list them. Specific immediate objectives (e.g., obtaining your nursing degree, passing the NCLEX). Explanation of why these goals are important for your career development.
• Explain how you plan to achieve these goals. What steps or strategies will you take to reach your desired position?
• Preferred work environment. Do you see yourself working in a hospital, a clinic, or another type of healthcare facility?
• Discuss your long-term goals. Future aspirations (e.g., specialization in pediatrics, becoming a nurse practitioner). Plans for achieving these goals (e.g., pursuing further education or training). Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years?
• Skills, strengths, and experience. Include these key elements to demonstrate your ability to be a successful nurse. Key skills or personal qualities that make you a good fit for nursing (e.g., empathy, resilience, communication).
• A description of your professional aspirations: what kind of nurse do you hope to become? What area(s) of nursing practice are you interested in? and why
• An explanation of how graduate-level nursing education will help you achieve your career goals: what specific knowledge and skills do you hope to gain?

Every career goals is unique. You should make your flexible because a successful one might include or omit some of these components.

Questions To Ask Yourself When Writing a Nursing Career Goals Essay

Here are some reflective questions to ask yourself when writing a nursing career goals essay:

• What inspired me to pursue a career in nursing?
• Are there any personal experiences that have influenced my decision to become a nurse?
• What qualities do I possess that make me suited for nursing?
• What are my immediate career goals after completing my nursing education?
• What specific skills do I want to develop during my nursing program?
• How will I prepare for and succeed in the NCLEX exam?
• Where do I see myself in 5, 10, or 20 years within the nursing profession?
• What areas of specialization am I interested in, and why?
• Do I have aspirations to take on leadership roles or contribute to healthcare policy?
• What steps will I take to achieve my short-term and long-term goals?
• How do I plan to gain relevant clinical experience during my education?
• What resources (mentors, networking, and additional education) will I utilize to support my career development?
• In what type of healthcare setting do I see myself working (e.g., hospital, clinic, community health)?
• What aspects of a work environment are important to me (e.g., team dynamics, patient interaction, opportunities for advancement)?
• What kind of nurse do I hope to become, and what specific role do I aspire to fill?
• What impact do I want to have on my patients and the healthcare community?
• How do I plan to advocate for my patients and promote health equity?
• How will pursuing further education (e.g., MSN, DNP) help me achieve my career goals?
• What specific knowledge and skills do I hope to gain through graduate-level education?
• How can I leverage my advanced education to contribute to my chosen field?

Reflecting on these questions can help you articulate your motivations, goals, and plans effectively in your nursing career goals essay.

Nursing Career Goals Essay Example

Below is an example of a nursing career goals essay. You can pick a few hints and tips from it or order your nursing essay and get a custom-written essay that meets and exceeds all the requirements.

Nursing is more than a profession; it is a calling that requires compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. From a young age, I have always been drawn to the field of healthcare, witnessing firsthand the profound impact that nurses have on their patients and families. In this essay, I share my journey toward nursing, outline my short-term and long-term career goals, and express my unwavering dedication to this noble profession. Growing up in a family of healthcare professionals, I was often surrounded by discussions about patient care and the importance of empathy in healing. My mother, a registered nurse, often shared stories about her experiences in the emergency room, where she provided critical care to patients in their most vulnerable moments. Inspired by her passion, I volunteered at a local hospital during my high school years, assisting nurses with patient care and administrative tasks. These experiences solidified my desire to pursue a career in nursing, where I could make a tangible difference in people's lives. As I embark on my nursing education at Walden University, my short-term goal is to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree within the next four years. I am fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead, including rigorous coursework, clinical rotations, and the upcoming NCLEX examination. However, I am committed to maintaining a strong academic record and actively engaging in my clinical experiences. I plan to seek out opportunities for hands-on learning, such as internships and volunteer positions in healthcare settings, to enhance my skills and knowledge. Looking beyond my immediate goals, I have a vision for my long-term nursing career. Upon completing my BSN, I aspire to specialize in pediatric nursing. I have always had a soft spot for children and believe that working in pediatrics will allow me to provide care to some of the most vulnerable patients. In the future, I hope to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, which will enable me to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. This advanced practice role will allow me to diagnose and treat illnesses, provide preventive care, and advocate for children’s health. Moreover, I am passionate about healthcare advocacy and intend to take on leadership roles within the nursing profession. I envision myself participating in community outreach programs that educate families about health and wellness. By empowering families with knowledge, I hope to contribute to reducing health disparities in underserved populations. In conclusion, my journey toward becoming a nurse has been shaped by personal experiences, inspirations, and a strong desire to serve others. I am committed to achieving my short-term and long-term career goals, which include obtaining my BSN, specializing in pediatric nursing, and advocating for children's health. As I embark on this journey, I am filled with excitement and determination, knowing that nursing is not just a career for me but also a lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Topics for a Nursing Career Goals Essay

The topics below can provide a foundation for exploring various aspects of career goals in nursing. You can be tailor them to fit your personal experiences or specific interests.

• The importance of setting career goals in nursing.
• Short-term vs. Long-term goals: a nursing career path.
• How to create an action plan for achieving nursing career goals.
• The role of mentorship in achieving nursing career aspirations.
• Navigating career changes in nursing: goals and strategies.
• Pursuing specialization: my goals in pediatric nursing.
• The journey to becoming a nurse practitioner: my career goals.
• Setting goals for leadership roles in nursing: the path to nurse manager.
• Exploring the role of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNS) and my career goals
• Developing skills for a career in nursing informatics: my aspirations.
• The impact of continuing education on nursing career goals.
• My goals for graduate nursing education: advancing my career.
• How certifications can shape my nursing career path.
• Setting goals for lifelong learning in nursing practice.
• The role of evidence-based practice in shaping my nursing career goals.
• Advocating for patient rights: career goals in community health nursing.
• My aspiration to work in global health: setting career goals for impact.
• How nursing leadership can influence policy change: my goals.
• Community outreach in nursing: setting goals for public health education.
• The importance of cultural competence in nursing: my professional goals.
• Overcoming challenges to achieve my nursing career goals.
• How personal values shape my nursing career aspirations.
• Balancing work and education: my goals as a nursing student.
• Reflecting on my nursing journey: goals and growth.
• The impact of personal experiences on my nursing career goals.

Tips for Writing an Impactful Nursing Career Goals Essay

Writing a nursing career goals essay is a crucial step in outlining your aspirations and motivations in the nursing field. This essay allows you to reflect on your journey and articulate your future goals effectively. Here are ten tips to help you compose a compelling essay:

• Start with a Strong Introduction . Begin with a captivating hook that draws the reader in and sets the tone for your essay.
• Be Personal and Reflective . Share your unique experiences and insights that led you to pursue a career in nursing.
• Define Short-Term Goals . Clearly outline your immediate objectives and how they align with your overall career path.
• Establish Long-Term Aspirations . Describe where you see yourself in the future, including specific roles or specializations.
• Create an Action Plan . Detail the steps you plan to take to achieve both your short-term and long-term goals.
• Highlight Relevant Skills . Emphasize the skills and qualities that will contribute to your success in nursing.
• Stay Positive. Use a positive tone throughout your essay, even when discussing challenges.
• Mention Preferred Work Environment . Specify the type of healthcare setting where you envision yourself working and why.
• Stay Focused and Organized . Maintain a clear structure throughout the essay, with each section logically flowing into the next.
• Use Professional Language . Write in a clear, concise, and professional tone, avoiding jargon or overly casual language. While you want to be thorough, be mindful of the word count and stay on topic.
• Revise and Edit . After completing your draft, take the time to review and refine your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.

Related Articles:

• How to write a great nursing school admission essay.
• Challenges in nursing school.
• Tips to succeed in nursing school.
• Steps to a good nursing reflective essay.
• A quick guide to writing a nursing philosophy essay.

Final Words

Writing a nursing career goals essay can be a fulfilling experience that allows you to articulate your passion for nursing and your plans for the future.

If you follow this simple guide and use the example provided for inspiration, you can create a compelling essay that highlights your commitment to the nursing profession. Take the time to reflect on your journey and aspirations, and let your unique voice shine through in your writing. Remember, this essay is not just an assignment; it is an opportunity to share your story and your vision for the future of nursing.

However, if you want to hire a nursing essay writer to do your essay, we are the best website to consider. Our writers discuss your needs, expectations, and desires then go ahead and create a paper that fulfils all of them. You can get a plagiarism and AI-free paper done within the shortest turnaround time.

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How To Answer “Why Do You Want To Be A Nurse?” (With Examples)

• Cover Letter
• Registered Nurse Interview Questions
• Registered Nurse Job Description
• Why Did You Choose Nursing?

When you’re in a nursing interview, you’ll hear the common question “Why do you want to be a nurse ?”, so it’s essential to know how to answer it. Your answer should reflect on what it was that drew you to nursing and tell a story about it, such as the moment it was clear that you wanted to be a nurse.

Whether you want to be a pediatric nurse , emergency department nurse, or travel nurse, we’ll go over how to answer “Why did you choose nursing as a career?”, why interviewers ask this question, as well as some common mistakes to avoid.

Key Takeaways:

Try to think of a story or a moment that made it clear that a nursing career was right for you.

Interviewers ask “Why do you want to become a nurse?” so you can highlight your passion for nursing and what got you interested in the field.

Avoid saying anything negative because it can often be a red flag for interviewers.

How to answer “Why do you want to be a nurse?”

Example answers to “why do you want to be a nurse”, why interviewers ask this interview question, common mistakes to avoid when answering, interview tips for answering this question, possible follow-up questions:, nurse career path faq, final thoughts.

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To answer “Why do you want to be a nurse?” you should first ask yourself questions as to why you want to be a nurse, start at the root, and tell your interviewer a story. Below is a more detailed list of how to answer this interview question .

As yourself questions. Before the interview, ask yourself, putting money and career goals aside, why do YOU want to be a nurse? Consider the following questions to better understand your reasoning:

Do you want to help people?

Does the medical field excite you?

Do you have certain skills, such as communication or concentration under duress, that naturally fit the position?

Do you thrive when you get to build relationships with people?

Do you love both science and working with people?

Focus on these aspects of yourself when you are asked why you are choosing nursing as a career.

Start at the root. If you’ve wanted to be a nurse since you were a kid, start there. If you got into medicine thanks to an impactful college professor , make that your starting point.

Tell a story. Most interviewers prefer narratives over bullet point facts — especially with a personal question like this. Don’t feel like you have to make up some great tale about how a nurse saved the day when you were a child, but bring in real moments when it became clear that nursing was the career for you.

Talk about people and experiences. Nursing is all about building relationships, so your answer should touch on your empathy and ability to form bonds with the people you work with and serve. In this way, your answer will show that you want to be a nurse because you truly enjoy the process of nursing.

Bring it to the future. Close your answer with a nod to the future and what you’d like to accomplish in your brilliant new nursing career. Bringing your answer from the past to the future shows that you’re forward-thinking and determined enough to make your dreams a reality.

Below are example answers to “Why do you want to be a nurse?” for different scenarios such as pediatric or emergency room nursing. Remember to tailor your answers to your specific needs when you answer in your interview.

Pediatric nurse example answer

“I have wanted to get into nursing since I was very young. One of my earliest memories is of a nurse taking care of me when I had to go to the hospital for stitches. She was so kind and gentle with me that I didn’t even cry or panic. I remember leaving thinking that was the kind of person I wanted to be when I grew up. Ever since then, everything I have done has been working towards becoming a nurse.”

Emergency room nurse example answer

“When I was in college I took a course on basic first aid and found it super interesting. I started signing up for volunteer first aid positions and some of my fellow volunteers were nurses. I was curious about their job and the more I learned about what they did the more I found myself excited by the prospect of helping people in medical situations. I made friends with these nurses and they helped guide me through the application process.”

Travel nurse example answer

“Medicine is such an exciting field, and one of the biggest joys of nursing is that I’m always learning new things. I know people who dread getting their necessary CEUs every year, but for me, it’s a perk of the career. “For instance, just last year I completed my certification from the Wilderness Medical Society and can now serve as medical staff on the Appalachian Trail. But from Diabetes for APRNs to Nursing for Infertility courses, I’m always able to maintain my passion for nursing through continuous discovery and wonder at the medical field.”

Critical care nurse example answer

“I believe in helping people, especially in times of extreme need. When I worked as an EMT I was always the one asked to facilitate information between any involved party. I want to expand this skill and I think nursing is a good fit for me. My interests and experience with medical professionals are good for this job.”

Nurse midwife example answer

“I want to be a nurse because I am deeply committed to providing compassionate healthcare to women during one of the most significant and transformative moments of their life. Being a nurse midwife will allow me to empower women by advocating their choices and preferences during childbirth. “Being a nurse midwife will also allow me to make a positive impact on the lives of women and their families. I will be able to provide personalized care, emotional support , and educational resources to help ensure a smooth and empowering birthing experience for my patients.”

Oncology nurse example answer

“I want to be an oncology nurse because this field is driven by a profound desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those fighting cancer. I am committed to providing compassionate care to patients during their cancer journey. “Working as an oncology nurse also has the opportunities to be part of cutting-edge research and advancements in cancer treatments. I want to be at the forefront of innovation and help contribute to the improvement of cancer care outcomes.”

The interviewer will ask why you want to be a nurse to know how serious you are about the position. This isn’t a career to take lightly because there are many challenges.

Nursing is a profession with a prerequisite for assisting others in potentially high-stress environments. So by answering this question, you are given the opportunity to highlight not only your skills but more importantly, your passion for nursing and ability to keep cool under pressure.

Additionally, interviewers hope to learn why you got interested in the field in the first place. Telling a story about an impactful experience with a medical professional or about the sense of satisfaction you feel when helping a patient can help illustrate that you’re not only skillful but also have deep compassion for the people you’ll be working with.

You should avoid saying anything negative because it can be a red flag for the interviewer. Here are some other common mistakes you should avoid when answering:

Saying anything negative. A negative response will be a red flag for the interviewer. If you are one to complain or see the worse in a situation, this will make you a difficult coworker in an already difficult field.

Focusing on money or self-serving reasons. Even if the wages are an attractive feature of the profession, mentioning this as a reason will hurt you. The interviewer is looking for an answer that goes beyond your own needs.

Unrelated anecdotes. Don’t get caught up in telling stories about nursing that have nothing to do with you or the job. Remember to keep things relevant and concise.

Your answer should be positive and you should use a personal experience to help you answer and tell a story. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when answering this question:

Be positive. Nothing will concern an interviewer more if you are cynical and negative in an interview where the job requires a strong sense of empathy and selflessness. This does not mean you can’t, nor should, ignore the challenges of the profession. If you can reframe these difficulties with a positive mindset and a “can do” attitude, you will strengthen your impact in the interview.

Be concise. A long-winded, rambling answer may give the impression that you have not considered the question ahead of time. That said, if you rush through your words, you may concern the interviewer as well. So, don’t be afraid to take breaths or have moments of silence, but choose your words carefully and effectively. Concise communication is a huge part of the nursing profession so here is an opportunity to highlight that skill.

Use personal experience. When answering the question “Why did you choose nursing as a career?” it can really help to bring in a personal touch to the response. This creates a unique answer that can help you stand out among other candidates. The personal experience may also reveal a moment of inspiration pointing towards why you chose nursing as a career.

Remember the job description. Use the skills required in the job description and apply them to yourself as you explain your interest in the field. Integrate them with care, you are not trying to restate your resume . Instead, consider how your skills have developed over time and how that relates to your interest in nursing. Remember, skills are developed through some kind of interest too.

Research the organization/department. Wherever you are applying to is going to have unique characteristics. Perhaps the organization focuses on low-income individuals or the elderly or intensive care patients. You may be able to bring this into your answer. Even if you do not, it is still good to give you context. By understanding where you’re applying to, you strengthen the explanation of why you are applying.

Practice your answer. Before the interview, practice this answer, preferably with someone else who can give you feedback such as a friend or family member. However, if you do not have that opportunity, practice in front of a mirror or, better yet, record yourself on your phone and listen back to what you said. In the end, you want to “train” for this question by giving yourself the opportunity to run through it a couple of times with the chance to tweak your response.

After the question “Why did you choose a nursing career?” there will most likely be follow-up questions. Here are some examples of other common interview questions and some tips on how to answer them. This will help you prepare yourself for the direction the interview may take.

What do you think is most difficult about being a nurse? Why?

Be aware of certain challenges of nursing ahead of time. Do some research . The worst thing you can do for yourself is be caught off guard by this question.

How are you at handling stress?

Consider what techniques you use for reducing stress. It is going to be important to show your competency. Consider answering in a way that reveals you to be a team player and aware of the stresses of your coworkers as well.

What are your long-term career goals?

The interviewer is going to be gauging your seriousness in becoming a nurse. It is not a profession that you can just “try-out”, so give an answer that shows sincere consideration for a long-term medical profession. Note: This does not necessarily tie you strictly to nursing. Many managers and hospital administrators come from nursing backgrounds.

Why do you want to work here?

Many interviewers will want to hear about not only your passion for nursing as a career but also how your passions align with their organization.

Look up the mission and vision of the facility before your interview and talk about how that resonates with you, or give an example of how you’ve seen them in action and want to be a part of that.

What drove your interest in this specialty?

Not every nurse fits well in every nursing role, so your interviewers will likely ask you why you want this particular job.

Whether this is the specialty you’ve always worked in or you’re trying something new, structure your answer similarly to your answer to the “Why do you want to be a nurse?” question.

Why would one want to be a nurse?

Many people want to be a nurse because it gives them an opportunity to help people in a meaningful way. Nurses not only perform specialized tasks that are vital to a person’s well-being, but they also get to emotionally support people who are going through an incredibly difficult time.

This can be as simple as being a calm, friendly presence or advocating for them with the rest of the medical staff, but it makes a huge impact on people’s lives.

In addition to this, many people choose to become nurses over another occupation that helps people because they love science and medicine or love the fast-paced, challenging work environment.

What is a good weakness to say in a nursing interview?

A good weakness to say in a nursing interview is a weakness that you’re actively working on. Whether your greatest weakness is that you’re too detailed with your paperwork or say yes to too many people and requests, always follow it up by explaining the steps you’re taking to overcome that weakness.

Hiring managers don’t expect you to be perfect, but they do expect you to be self-aware and take the initiative to minimize the impact of your weak spots.

What are the 6 C’s of nursing?

The 6 C’s of nursing are care, compassion, communication, courage, and commitment. These are principles taught to many nurses to help them learn how to give excellent care to patients.

They also help to set cultural expectations at medical facilities, since all of the nurses are upheld to this standard, no matter what their educational background or specialty.

What are some common nursing interview questions?

Some common nursing interview questions include:

What skills do you think are important for nurses to possess?

Describe your experience as a nurse and what you’ve learned from it.

How would you manage an uncooperative patient?

How well do you thrive in a fast-paced environment?

There are so many nursing jobs out there and nurses are in high demand. You will want to know what you’re getting yourself into before you are asked at the interview what brings you to the field.

Knowledge is power, so knowing your response to “Why did you choose a nursing career?” is crucial for success. This is your moment to shine and show why you are the best candidate for the job.

Those who are able to answer with sincerity and empathy are the types of nurses all organizations will want. So get yourself ready and figure out ahead of time why you want to be a nurse.

Nightingale College – How To Ace Your Nursing Job Interview: Questions, Answers & Tips

The College of St. Scholastica – Why do you want to be a nurse? Students share their sentiments

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Conor McMahon is a writer for Zippia, with previous experience in the nonprofit, customer service and technical support industries. He has a degree in Music Industry from Northeastern University and in his free time he plays guitar with his friends. Conor enjoys creative writing between his work doing professional content creation and technical documentation.

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How to Write The Perfect Nursing Scholarship Essay

Writing a strong essay is one of the best ways to put yourself in the running to land a nursing scholarship .  

But what does a strong essay look like?  What does it include? 

Continue reading to learn how to write a scholarship essay your reader won't be able to put down!

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

Essential tips for writing your essay 

The dos and don'ts of essay writing

A foolproof essay template you can have for free

Essential tips for writing your nursing essay

1. fully understand the requirements and criteria.

Before you write a single word, you must examine the application requirements and criteria. 

First, you need to make sure that you meet all of the minimum requirements to avoid wasting any time. 

If you do meet all of the requirements, you should go through the application with a fine tooth comb, making a note of the experience, skills, and qualifications required. Doing so will ensure you know what to focus on in your essay.

2. Create a solid essay outline

Armed with your notes, the next step is creating a working essay outline. Studies show that stories resonate well with humans and tend to be more impactful than facts or statistics alone in writing.

So, when you’re creating your outline, you should mark out a definitive beginning, middle, and end to keep your essay readers engaged and invested throughout. Here’s a basic outline structure for your reference:

• Beginning: Summarize why you’re applying for the scholarship and what you’re going to cover in your essay.
• Middle: Explain exactly why you want to be a nurse, and why you’re the ideal candidate. Cover the skills and experience requirements from the application brief and back them up with real-life examples.
• End: Finish strong by communicating why the institution offering the scholarship is the right fit for you, reiterate your passion for nursing, and finish with an impactful line that sticks in the memory.

3. Study the essays of past scholarship winners

Want to know the most overlooked, yet impactful, piece of advice for writing a great scholarship essay?

Read the essays of past scholarship winners if you can!  

Doing so will give you an idea of what your reader is looking for in the essay. 

Do they talk about their future nursing plans a lot? Do they share a very specific and personal story that led them to choose this career path?

Identifying the trends in previous winners’ essays will provide you with invaluable insight that you can use to write your own. In addition, pay attention to the following: 

• How the essay is formatted
• How the essay is structured
• How the winning applicant communicated their skills and experience
• How the winning applicant approached their writing style in terms of language and sentence structure.

While you want to make sure you write your essay in your own words and your own voice, taking note of the elements other writers have included can help you craft your essay. 

4. Be clear and concise

While you probably have a lot to write about, there is (generally) a word limit, typically 500 to 1000 words. This means that you must be extremely clear and concise with the words you choose. 

To create the biggest  possible impact with the fewest words, you should aim to use the active tense as much as possible. Not only will this make you sound confident but it will also prevent you from going off course and rambling. 

Use action words where appropriate and be as ruthless as possible with your edits, chopping out any words, information or phrases that seem like fluff and filler words.

"One day I will find the right words, and they will be simple."— Jack Kerouac

5.  Describe why you want to become a nurse

In the middle—or heart—of your essay, you will need to explain precisely why you want to become a nurse. 

To get this essential element of your nursing scholarship essay just right, you will need to:

• Dig deep and consider your personal motivations for becoming a nurse
• Communicate which aspects of the job or vocation appeal to you most
• State the professional & personal challenges you want to overcome
• Offer a brief insight into your ultimate aims, goals or dreams as a nurse

Condensing this level of personal detail and passion into a paragraph or two is no easy feat, but by working through the above four exercises and leaving yourself enough time to create, arrange, and edit, you can do it.

Looking for scholarship examples online for inspiration is a good idea, but remember, this is about you and your motivations. If you simply copy & paste a template from the web, you will fail to make an impact. Don’t do it.

6. Share your plans for the future

Following on from your ‘why I want to become a nurse statement’, you should offer a deeper insight into your plans for the future.

Sharing your future plans and aspirations will showcase your passion as well as your long term commitment—so including this information in your nursing scholarship essay is essential.

Do you want to become head of a hospital department? Do you want to ultimately specialize in a particular area of nursing? Do you want to serve your local area and create community-driven nursing initiatives? Perhaps you want to make your mark in the education sector? 

Only you know what your ultimate aspirations are, but the point is—make sure you include them in your essay.

7. Have a friend proofread your essay

Last but certainly not least in our nursing essay writing tips is proofreading.

A fresh set of eyes is always helpful when it comes to proofreading your essay, because you want it to be near perfect from start to finish. Having a trusted friend or mentor proofread your essay provides an opportunity to get  feedback on your content and  any potential errors or typos you may have missed.

Nursing scholarships essays: the dos and don’ts

To summarize our essential nursing scholarship essay writing tips, here some definitive dos and don’ts for your reference:

• Check the requirements and brief before you start writing.
• Make logical notes and create a working outline.
• Be clear, concise, and confident.
• Explain why you want to become a nurse and share your future aspirations.
• Carefully proof and edit your work. Have a trusted friend proofread your essay for you.
• Start writing until you’ve taken the time to absorb every piece of relevant information.
• Rush the process and submit your application without editing, redrafting and proofing.
• Forget that the essay is about your specific skills and experience. Don’t be too generic.
• Copy or plagiarize word for word. Using examples for inspiration is fine, copying is not. 

A Basic template for nursing scholarship essays

For your guidance and inspiration, here’s a basic nursing scholarship essay template/outline to follow:

Dear, ___________,

Summarize your intent for your application and what attracts you to the nursing profession.

Following paragraph:

Talk about your existing skills and experience based on the application brief, backing up your statements with an example or two.

Talk about activities or events you’ve participated in as well as practical skills that make you an excellent candidate. Again, use examples here.

Move onto your ‘why I want to become a nurse’ statement, followed by an insight into your career-based goals, aims, and aspirations.

State why you have the personal attributes to be a successful candidate, explain why you make an excellent fit for this particular scholarship and end with an impactful, emotive line that showcases your passion for nursing.

Best of luck…

Follow these guidelines and you’ll no doubt write an amazing essay that lands you the perfect nursing scholarship. If you need some more tips, feel free to reach out to our admission team at Labouré College.

We wish you the very best of luck and if you’re looking for more inspiration, read all about the 30 types of nurses employers are hiring right now .

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Why I Want To Be A Nurse Essay

• April 10, 2020
• Essay Guides and Topics

Here's What We'll Cover

Every year, thousands of students try their luck in the medical field. Why I want to be a nurse essay is written to convince and persuade the admission committee that you are the best candidate for the course. You have to state in detail why you love nursing and why It suits you. The examiners, in this case, are looking for unique stories which show why you love the profession. Moreover, it is a typical essay question in the US that students can expect in exams and various applications. Sometimes it can be overwhelming to write your essay; remember, you can get legit online writers to help you write a perfect essay.

This post will guide you on how to write why I want to be a nurse essay.

The Difference Between Why I Want To Be A Nurse Essay and Other Papers

Essays, in general, have a standard structure . The following are the key points that make nursing school essay different from other papers;

A nursing college admission essay should give the admission officer an accurate picture of who you are and how you will contribute to the nursing profession. In short, the purpose is to tell them about your strengths, weaknesses, and future plans as a nurse.

Tone and Voice

Your nursing personal statement should speak the nursing language. It gives it more credibility. Also, remember to use a professional tone and avoid grammatical errors.

A nursing school personal statement should explain why you are interested in nursing, reasons for choosing nursing as your career, your dedication, and your commitment to nursing.

What To Include In Why I Want To Be A Nurse Essay

For a good essay that resonates well with your topic of interest, you have to consider the following; 

Reasons You Want To Be A Nurse 

If you want to convince the board that you have the potential of being the world’s best nurse , you need to give compelling reasons. Your reasons might be; you’ve always been passionate about nursing, or you’ve found it rewarding because it involves helping people. You might also state that you find nursing a vocation, a way of life, or you want to make a difference in people’s lives one patient at a time. Bringing happiness to individuals, their families and comforting those in need might also be another reason. 

What Inspired You?

Certain events in our lives motivate us to pursue certain careers. In the why I want to be a nurse essay, you can use personal experiences to explain why you want to pursue the career . For example, suppose your relative was misdiagnosed, which led to another medical condition that put her life in danger; this can be the reason behind your inspiration. Your main aim might be helping people get quality and effective care. Sharing personal stories will help you connect with whoever will read your paper and make you stand out. These stories don’t have to be negative experiences; they can also be positive.

Academic Interests

Talk about which area in medicine you are specifically interested in, previous experience in medicine, and your future aspirations. You can also talk about how you’ll keep up to date with medical trends. 

Fascinating Points About Nursing 

In your essay, you can highlight interesting points in nursing that make you want to delve into nursing more. You can talk about things like you love that nurses can be doctors and don’t necessarily need to work in hospitals; they can work at military bases, private health care, home healthcare, or even in schools. You can also talk about the fact that there are 100 nursing professions, including advanced nursing degrees. These options allow more flexibility in the profession.

What Makes You A Good Nurse?

Nursing isn’t a profession for everyone. Some people can’t stand the sight of blood and syringes, sick people, or even the smell of hospitals. Cite what attributes you have made you a good nurse. You can say you are loving, caring, compassionate, gentle, and show empathy to people. You might also possess certain attributes like great communication skills, a sense of humor, problem-solving skills, patience, and the ability to cope with stress. 

What Motivates You To Be A Nurse? 

Motivation can be defined as a pulling force. Something that makes you get out of bed. For example, if you want to start running in the morning, your motivation could be to lose weight or attain a healthy lifestyle. In Why I want to be a nurse essay, your motivation could be to help others or the need to attain financial freedom.

Strategies For Writing A Good Why I Want To Be A Nurse Essay

1. create an outline .

Before you start writing your essay, you need to identify the main points you’ll discuss in the paper to make it more clear and organized to read. Having an outline gives you a clear map of what you want to write and discuss. An outline is like a draft; this way, you will know what to discuss in your introduction, the body, and the conclusion. 

2. Use a Powerful Hook and Thesis Statement

Your introduction is the ‘starter’ to the main course ‘body’ of your essay. It should give the essay rationale and tell the reader what to expect in your essay to make them want to continue reading. For this purpose, it should be like a hook. Start with a statement from medical experts a proven data.

The last sentence of the essay’s introduction should contain a general statement about the idea of the essay.

3. Use Personal Anecdotes and Stories

There is no better way to keep the reader interested than to use an interesting personal anecdote. An anecdote is a short amusing story about an event or person. If you have lived in this place called earth, you sure have plenty of those. Use them to your advantage. For example, you can narrate an encounter that made you want to be a nurse or a touching story that significantly impacted your life. Remember, honesty is very important. Be personal but avoid crèche.  

4. Make Your Essay Short

Because this is a type of college admission essay, such requires a short personal essay that mainly expresses your interests and motivations. You want to convince the board that you are a worthy applicant. They can have a word limit of 200 to 650 words or an average of 500 words. However, some college websites provide a word count. You can use that to guide you, but do not exceed the given range by too much because the board has to go through many admission letters. 

5. Provide Supportive Materials

An effective essay needs strong supporting information within the paragraphs. These could be links to articles or even books. When you have evidence to back up your statement, it makes your essay more credible and stronger. 

6. Use Sandwich Rule 

You have probably already heard of the hamburger rule of writing . In an essay, this mainly applies to the body of the essay. The main rule presents one idea in a single paragraph and does not mix up ideas. The flow of each section should be like this;

• Your paragraph’s main argument is the top bun’ and should state what the topic is about.
• Your evidence, statistics, and quotes are the condiments.
• The juicy central part of your paragraph is your arguments, analysis, and thoughts. So this is the part that requires the most attention. If you do not back up your first two parts with clear arguments or analysis, the quotes or whatever else you wrote on part two will be meaningless.
• The bottom bun should hold everything in the paragraph together and seamlessly transition the information to the next paragraph.
• Body Paragraphs – Discuss the recommended no. of paragraphs

7. Highlight Your Strengths 

When you write why I want to be a nurse essay, the admission committee will scrutinize your strengths. The nursing profession demands people that are warm by nature, good at communicating, caring, and empathetic. If you possess these skills and have any other that you feel will help advance your case, it is important to highlight them. The admission board will want to accept into nursing school a person they feel has the right soft skills that will help improve service delivery. 

8. Choose A Structure That Works Well For You 

A typical why I want to be a nurse essay will be a five-paragraph essay. You need to make the most of this structure to ensure the admission committee considers your application. Additionally, you will need to pay attention to the individual sections of the essay to make it stand out among other applicants. Below is the outline.

Introduction

The introduction of your why I want to be a nurse essay needs to be short and captivating. Additionally, you need to make the most of a hook. It will not only ensure the reader wants to read more but also offer a moving story. Anecdotes work best for such introductions, but you can also experiment with other types of hooks as well. 

The Body 

The body of your essay will form the basis on which the admission committee will judge a vast chunk of your essay. The key to writing a good body for this type of essay is focusing on telling your truth. Tell a personal story that makes you want to be a nurse and elaborate on how this story relates to all you have been doing to get to where you are. For the body also, including practical examples that help to support the argument you make here. Depending on the type of research you did and the angle you are writing your story, you can also make the story more outstanding. 

Nursing school application essays should be two or four paragraphs. Each paragraph should discuss a different idea and connect to the main idea of the essay. The recommended number of paragraphs in the body of a nursing school essay is four.

The first paragraph in your essay’s body should discuss why you want to be a nurse. You are required to support your argument with evidence. Ensure that the reason comes out very clear and don’t leave the admission officers guessing. Explain why these reasons are important and conclude with a final idea for this paragraph.

2. Academic Experience

In the second paragraph, discuss in detail your academic experience. Provide examples of academic experience from your own life. Explain how this academic experience relates to a nursing program and then finish with a claim that connects academic experience with the nursing program.

Tell them how this experience led you to your decision.

3 . Personal Characteristics

In the third paragraph, discuss your personal characteristics, provide specific examples and link them to nursing. Tell them what makes you different and how this best suits nursing as a career.

The last paragraph of your essay’s body should explain your personal goals. State how these goals can be achieved by studying a nursing program and how will they help you contribute positively to the nursing field?

Conclusion 

The conclusion of this type of essay will refer back to the unique story that you put forward in the body of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion needs to sum up the main points that make your claim worth the committee’s consideration. Leave the last impression in one sentence that sums up the purpose of the paper.

9. Proofread Your Essay 

Your essay must be error-free. The reason for this is that a poorly edited essay will result in your chance of approval lowering. It is, therefore, necessary to use all resources available at your disposal to ensure that you proofread your essay and submit it error-free for review by the admission board. 

A good practice for proofreading your essay is taking time off the computer before returning later to edit your essay. This pause in between allows you to review the essay without bias. Additionally, it comes in handy if you can read your essay aloud as you proofread it. This proofing method improves your chances of spotting a mistake that you may miss if you read silently. 

The process of writing why I want to be a nurse essay is one that many students dread. However, with the right preparation and research, you can write an essay that gains you entry into the career of your choice. Focus on telling your personal story to give you an edge over other applicants. Below is an example of such an essay. And if you have any trouble writing your essay, our Bright Writers experts are ready to help you.

An Example Of Why I Want To Be A Nurse

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Nurses make a positive impact on people’s lives and have a variety of work environments. They are also high in demand and have a flexible work schedule. Additionally, nursing is a rewarding career that has a solid earning potential hence giving you the stability you need.

A high level of emotional intelligence makes you stand out above the rest. This allows you to read people and situations appropriately. Good communications skills are also critical in getting into a nursing school. Other qualities like self-discipline, passion for nursing, compassion, and organizational skills qualify you to get into a nursing school.

Being honest and vulnerable in telling your personal story gives you a better chance of getting an admission. Consequently, using short, clear sentences, adding support evidence to your claims, and keeping your essay short makes an informative essay.

If you are caring, compassionate, courageous, competent, and committed, you will definitely make a good nurse. Other attributes include; 1. The nurses need to have high standards of professionalism in their line of work. 2. Diligence is an attribute a nurse needs to possess. 3. A good nurse should have outstanding communication skills. 4. Nurses also need to have remarkable interpersonal skills. 5. An effective nurse needs to pay attention to detail very carefully and ensure that no step is missed. 6. Should be able to solve problems quickly.

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How to Become a Registered Nurse Explicatory Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Unfortunately, the role of nurses is often underestimated, despite the fact that these healthcare professionals must have a great number of skills and competences such as excellent knowledge of medicine, ability to communicate with people of various backgrounds, leadership, quick decision-making and, most importantly, compassionate attitude toward the patient.

Without these qualities, one definitely should not start a nursing career, as it will be a disaster both for him and his patients. This paper aims to discuss those standards and expectations that registered nurses (RN) have to meet on a daily basis. Furthermore, it is necessary to show the steps which a person should take, if he/she wants to become an RN.

In order to write this essay, I have interviewed Kathie Shankley, a close friend of mine and a practicing nurse. She agreed to speak about her work in a community hospital. She believes that the most difficult thing for her is the wide scope nurse’s duties. My friend says, “It sometimes seems to me that I must do more than ten things at a time”.

Judging from this statement, one can assume that a registered nurse must be able to prioritize the tasks in terms of their importance and urgency. Moreover, a nurse must be able to keep ones composure in critical moments. In Kathie’s view, a person, who does not have these abilities, “should think twice or even thrice” whether he wants to pursue a career in medicine or not. The thing is that there are moments when you have to act on the spur of the moment, and not everyone can do it.

Another thing, which Kathie finds particularly challenging, is the necessity to find an approach to every patient. She points out that “language barrier can really be a great obstacle sometimes”. According to Kathie, if a person is bilingual, he/she will really have an advantage over others.

Thus, it is quite possible to argue that cross-cultural education is of great importance for all medical workers, not only nurses. This is one of the reasons why medical students should study a foreign language. This is particularly relevant for such country as the United States, where people can speak Spanish, Italian, Russian and so forth. The knowledge of foreign language can be of great avail for an RN, although this is not a must.

Moreover, a registered nurse must be well-aware of the most recent research findings as this knowledge can greatly improve the quality of patient care. The thing is that treatment methods constantly evolve, a healthcare professional must always read books and academic journal in order to “stay in the forefront and be in the know”, as Kathie noted.

She also urged future nurses not to overlook their math classes because a RN has to know how to analyze statistical data. This is one of those skills, which one has to acquire, if he/she intends to take this career path. Kathie says that many nurses fail to achieve professional growth, because they do not take much interest in the on-going medical research.

Although, being a registered nurse is very prestigious, one must bear in mind that the responsibilities of these people are much heavier because they work in intensive care units and operation rooms and supervise the activities of other nurses. To become an RN, one should obtain Master’s or at least Bachelor’s degree.

Again, as it has been mentioned before, a nurse must be versed in many areas of study: medicine, psychology, chemistry, pharmacology statistics and so forth. Without appropriate academic background, one can hope of becoming an RN. Kathie believes that the would-be students should carefully evaluate the training programs, offered by various schools of nursing as this choice can greatly impact their professional growth as well as salary.

During our conversation, I have also asked Kathie about the rewards of this profession or those things which bring joy and satisfaction. I intentionally avoided asking questions about monetary compensation, as I was more interested in the reasons why people decide to pursue the career of a nurse.

I am not quite sure that Kathie’s answer was very elaborate; she said, “I just wanted to help people who are ill, and I’m really glad when they recover”. After a moment of hesitation she added “You know, it’s one of those things that are very difficult to explain”. Therefore, we can presume that an RN ought to feel compassion for the patient, and this is one of those in-born qualities which can be neither acquired nor elaborated.

In this paper I have tried to single out those skills, competencies and psychological traits that a student must have in order to become a registered nurse. There are as follows: 1) excellent knowledge of various interrelated disciplines; 2) ability to communicate with people of various cultural and ethnic origins; 3) cool-headedness; 4) willingness to improve one’s professional skills and 4) genuine desire to help other people. One can hardly imagine an RN or other healthcare giver without these properties.

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Why Become A Nurse – (35 Great Reasons By A Nurse)

Are you considering your next career move and think nursing may be the right choice? Maybe you experienced the kindness of a nurse or a life-changing event that made you want to help others. Have you thought about your future and wondered why become a nurse? If this sounds like you, you have found the right article! In this article, I will share some of my experiences as a nurse and offer you 35 great reasons why you should become a nurse. When you finish reading, you will have enough information to consider whether nursing is for you.

What is a Nurse?

What types of degree options are available to become a nurse, associate degree in nursing (adn):, bachelor of science in nursing (bsn):, accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (accelerated bsn):, how long does it take to become a nurse, accelerated bsn:, how much does it cost to become a nurse, what are the admission requirements to become a nurse, why become a nurse, reason #1: you can earn a great income., reason #2: you can choose from a variety of work settings., reason #3: nursing has an excellent job outlook., reason #4: you can choose to specialize., reason #5: nursing is one of the most trusted professions., reason #6: you can start your own business., reason #7: you get to help people during difficult times., reason #8: your work will be exciting, reason #9: you can use essential nursing skills in any profession., reason #10: there is always room for advancement., reason #11: you can take advantage of professional development opportunities., reason #12: nurses often have options for flexible work schedules., reason #13: there are many program options to fit your needs., reason #14: what you do as a nurse matters, reason #15: you can work with healthcare professionals on many levels., reason #16: nurses typically have great benefits, reason #17: you can see the world, reason #18: you can choose to work in direct patient care or a non-clinical role., reason #19: you can become a legal nurse consultant., reason #20: you may be able to earn your degree for free., reason #21: you will always learn new things, reason #22: you can make a real difference., reason #23: you will support people during trying times., reason #24: you can become a nurse at any age., reason #25: you will develop long-lasting friendships., reason #26: you can be a nurse educator., reason #27: you can serve veterans., reason #28: you will help improve patient outcomes., reason #29: you can be a patient advocate., reason #30: you can lobby for healthcare reform., reason #31: you can participate in research., reason #32: you can get a side hustle to make more money., reason #33: you will have a true sense of accomplishment., reason #34: you will meet people from all walks of life., reason #35: you can easily find a job., what is the demand like for nurses for the next 10 years.

How Many Annual Job Openings are There for Nurses?

How Much Can You Make After Becoming a Nurse?

What is the Average Salary You Can Make After Becoming a Nurse?

So, is Becoming a Nurse Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?

My final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. is it hard to become a nurse, 2. what is the best age to pursue a nursing program, 3. how hard is it to get into a nursing program, 4. do i need work experience to get into a nursing program, 5. what is the minimum gpa to get into a nursing program, 6. can i pursue online programs to become a nurse, 7. are scholarships and grants available to become a nurse, 8. can i work part-time and successfully complete my nursing program, 9. can i work full-time and successfully complete my nursing program, 10. can nursing students have a life, 11. do students fail in nursing programs, 12. on average, how much can you make per hour after becoming a nurse.

13. On Average, How Much Can You Make Per Week After Becoming A Nurse?

14. On Average, How Much Can You Make Per Month After Becoming A Nurse?

15. On Average, How Much Can You Make Per Year After Becoming A Nurse?

16. Will Nurse Graduates Be Paid Less In The Future?

17. are nurses happy with their jobs, 18. will i ever regret becoming a nurse.

Nursing Career Paths: How to Become a Nurse and Advance Your Career

• Why Choose Nursing
• Advanced Education
• Alternate Paths
• How to Decide

Nursing is an extremely diverse career field with endless options for advancement, specializations, and opportunities to  change nursing careers .

There's no right way to become a nurse. However, the sheer number of options can be intimidating to aspiring nurses. This article will break down the most common nursing career paths, including the differences in nursing levels, requirements, benefits, and disadvantages of each. 

Read on to find a nursing career path that suits your needs and goals.

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• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

• MSN - Family NP
• MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Education
• MSN - Health Informatics
• MSN - Public Health Nursing
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• BSN-to-MSN - Nurse Admin
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Why Nursing Is An Excellent Career Path

Nurses are in high demand. According to the  BLS , in 2022, there were 3,172,500 registered nurses in the United States. By 2032, there will be a need for an additional 177,400 nurses , which is an expected growth of 6%.

As the U.S. population continues to age, these numbers may see a rapid increase over time. Therefore, nurses should never have trouble finding work.

Pathways into Nursing

While there are different degree programs you can choose, becoming a nurse is ultimately about what type of license you have. For example, nurses with associate's and bachelor's degrees take the same NCLEX exam to earn RN licensure.

Check out the graphic below for the differences between the 4 primary pathways into nursing. 

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, helps patients with activities of daily living and other healthcare needs. They work under the supervision of an RN or LPN. 

Pros and Cons of Becoming a CNA

Because the training process to become a CNA is just 4-12 weeks, it’s a great way for individuals to get their first experience in nursing and determine if they want to further their career to become an LPN or RN .

Many CNAs are already in a nursing school program and use this career as a chance to learn more about the healthcare world and gain additional real-world application and knowledge.

CNAs: earn your RN degree in up to 1/2 the time and cost of traditional programs with Achieve Test Prep's "Nursing Test-Out Program". All applicants must be a CNA to apply.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

An LPN license provides a nurse with a functioning nursing license, but in many states, an LPN is more limited in the care he or she can provide than an RN. For example, an LPN may not be able to deliver certain types of medications, so their work opportunities may be more restricted.

Pros and Cons of Becoming an LPN

Becoming an LPN can be a desirable choice for many looking to fast-track into the nursing field because you can achieve your LPN degree sometimes much faster than an RN degree.

You can get your LPN credentials in 12 to 15 months if you choose a diploma-based program. With an associate's program, you will become an LPN in about 18 to 24 months.

>> Related: RN vs LPN: What's the Difference?

As an LPN, you earn significantly less than a registered nurse. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average pay for an LPN in the United States is $59,730 per year or $28.72 per hour, while RNs earn on average $86,070.

But, there are LPN-to-RN bridge programs available if you choose to go the LPN route and want to advance your education to become an RN down the road.

LPNs: Achieve's Test-Out Bridge Program makes achieving your BSN faster and more affordable, and previous college credits will count toward your advanced degree. All applicants must be current LVN or LPN.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Becoming an RN is the gold standard in nursing. There are three main ways to become an RN: 

1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): You can become an RN by attending a bachelor's program through a university. Upon completion of the program, you will earn a BSN and take the NCLEX exam to earn RN licensure.

2. Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN): Similar to a BSN, you will earn your associate’s degree from an accredited program. Then, you'll take the same NCLEX to earn your RN credentials.

3. RN diploma program: Diploma programs are harder to find than ADN and BSN nursing programs. They're based on clinical hours and prepare you to take the NCLEX, which will award you an RN license.

Earning an ADN: Pros & Cons

Earning an ADN is preferable to many aspiring nurses because it's one of the  fastest ways to become a nurse . It's also cheaper than a BSN degree, which is beneficial to students on tight budgets. However, the ADN route does have its downsides.

Finding Employment

For example, many ADN nurses have a harder time finding employment despite their RN license. Most employers prefer BSN-RNs and will pass on ADN candidates. However, you should also be aware that some employers will sponsor ADN nurses to attend a BSN program while working.

Career Advancement

Additionally, only holding an ADN can make advancing your career more difficult. Most advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) programs require students to have a BSN. So, if you want to become a certified nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, or certified registered nurse anesthetist, you'll have to attend an  RN to BSN bridge program first.

Salary Differences

Finally, ADN-RNs earn less than their BSN counterparts. Payscale reports that ADN nurses earn $77,000 annually, while BSN nurses make around $95,000.

Earning a BSN: Pros & Cons

The American Association of Colleges of Nurses encourages a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as the minimum education requirement for RNs. Nursing and healthcare organizations consider a BSN the gold standard for RNs. In fact, an increasing number of facilities will only hire BSN-trained RNs, especially magnet and major teaching hospitals.

BSN Degree Cost

Forbes Advisor reports that BSN degrees cost between $20,000 and $100,000 in tuition alone. But, students can expect to incur additional fees for housing, meals, books, fees, and more.

Several factors will impact how much your BSN degree costs. These variables include whether you attend school part or full-time, your location, whether you attend a public or private university, and your residential status.

However, these costs don't always reflect what you actually pay. Remember that paying for nursing school is a combination of out-of-pocket costs, financial aid, scholarships, and government grants.

BSN Degree Paths

Students have three options for earning a BSN degree. The most common route is attending a traditional 4-year baccalaureate program. These programs offer two years of  nursing school prerequisites and general education, followed by two years of nursing and clinical training.

However, there are further options for ADN nurses and those with non-nursing degrees to earn a BSN. The three paths to this degree are as follows:

Advancing Your Nursing Education

Nurses looking to increase their salary and career opportunities can do so by earning an advanced degree. 

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

As more job opportunities for MSN-trained nurses become available, the popularity of MSN programs skyrockets. If you're interested in non-direct patient care nursing positions, you'll most likely need a  Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Earning an MSN: Pros & Cons

MSN nurses are eligible for higher nursing positions with greater responsibility and autonomy. If they take on an APRN, education, or administrative role, MSN nurses often also earn higher salaries than ADN or BSN-trained RNs.

The BLS reports that APRNs earn a median annual salary of $129,480 or $62.25 per hour. But, your chosen specialty will affect how much you earn. Median annual salaries for different MSN nurse roles include the following:

• Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) : $178,666
• Certified nurse midwife (CNM) : $104,213
• Nurse practitioner (NP) : $105,798
• Nurse educator : $82,890

MSN programs are available online or in person, but they can be costly. Forbes Advisor reports that MSN programs can range from $24,000 to $80,000, with the most expensive programs exceeding $100,000.

Types of MSN Degrees

• A non-clinical MSN degree is most suitable for nurses who are looking for management, administrative, leadership, or educator roles.
• An APRN MSN is the type of degree you would choose if you are looking to become an advanced practitioner, like NPs, CNMs, and CRNAs.

Depending on the MSN program you select, you can take on the following nursing roles:

• Clinical nurse leaders
• Nurse practitioners
• Certified nurse midwives
• Clinical nurse specialists
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists
• Nurse administrators
• Nurse educators
• Nurse informatics

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Doctors of nursing practice are leaders in advanced nursing practice who bring evidence-based knowledge to clinical settings. They work to improve healthcare outcomes and strengthen nursing leadership in clinical and academic environments. DNPs can have the same APRN roles as MSN nurses, but many work in research, academia, or as administrators.

Earning a DNP: Pros & Cons

There are several benefits to earning a DNP, which include knowledge expansion, greater career satisfaction, and higher salaries. However, these programs are expensive, so weighing the pros and cons of earning a DNP is necessary.

DNP nurses can function as providers or work in APRN roles, but most work to generate new clinical knowledge for nursing and healthcare fields. DNP-trained APRNs don't have more authority or a wider scope of practice than MSN nurses. Additionally, they rarely conduct scientific research or teach.

More often, DNPs work as researchers, administrators, and educators. Therefore, if you want to remain in a direct patient care APRN role, earning a DNP may not be worth it to you.

DNP nurses make $117,859 per year, which is $57 an hour, according to reports from ZipRecruiter . Payscale estimates a similar average salary of  $112,000 a year or $55.99 an hour.

Earning your DNP does not come cheap. Forbes advisor reports that DNP programs cost between $10,000 and $100,000 depending on the school you attend, your residential status, and whether you go full or part-time.

Alternative Nursing Career Paths

Nursing is a complex and ever-changing profession that provides individuals with countless job opportunities. Most know about pediatric, medical-surgical, operating room, and even hospice nursing.

However, there are less popular but still exciting career paths for nurses:

• Forensic Nurse  
• Legal Nurse Consultant  
• Wound Care Nurse  
• Cardiac Cath Lab Nurse

How to Decide Which Nursing Career Path

Though becoming a nurse may be your dream, it can also be a formidable task. There are hundreds of programs and several nursing career paths to take. Before starting on your journey, ask yourself:

• Do I want to advance my career upon graduation and become a CRNA or CRNP?
• How will I pay for this program?
• Will I be working throughout the program?
• Will I go to school part-time or full-time?
• Can I move away from home for undergraduate school?

Determining what your goals are for nursing will help narrow down the choices.  Nursing is a fulfilling and amazing career- regardless of the path chosen, becoming a nurse is an amazing accomplishment.

Find Nursing Programs

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

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Why I Want to Be a Nurse Essay Samples

Published by gudwriter on June 9, 2018 June 9, 2018

Why I Want to Be a Nurse Essay

Nursing schools try to scrutinize the students they are admitting to their institutions. In most cases, they want to have students who have a passion for the course. So, they ask for candidates to prove that they are worth the mettle. Sometimes, they require those interested in taking the course to state why exactly they love that career. Topics like ‘Why Do you Want to Become a Nurse’ are common gateways for admission into such institutions. They help get the best candidates as there are usually too many applications to consider. Students joining nursing/ healthcare programs should consider taking our free ATI TEAS 7 practice tests  to help them prepare for the TEAS exam.

Elevate Your Writing with Our Free Writing Tools!

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When you are writing this essay you need to, understand the college application essays dos and don’ts and to express your passion for helping people. Again, you should keep in mind that there are probably thousands other applicants who seek to get a spot in the same school as you. Thus, you should try as much as you can to impress the evaluators and convince them that you’ve got the potential to be the nurse that the world needs. We hope our tutorial will help you write the best application essay.

Stuck and wondering where you can order admission essay online? Gudwriter’s has the best team of qualified writers to help you craft a quality admission essay. Contact us now and receive the best service.

What to include in a Nursing School Essay

• Reasons why you’ve chosen the program
• Previous engagements that either inspired or prepared you to become a good nurse
• Your academic interests
• What fascinates you about nursing?
• Why the evaluators should consider your application
• Your character that would make you a successful nurse
• Your motivation to become a nurse

Get more information on what to include in a college admission essay .

Tips on How to write a good Nursing School Application Essay

• Choose the content prudently. Paint a clear picture of your accomplishment in order to impress the evaluators
• Have a strong topic, and stick to it by providing supportive material in your paragraphs
• Be precise and informative. Avoid fluff or anything that can bore the readers
• Use a capturing introduction to make your readers love reading the article
• Focus on the positive issues- it’s not a platform to bash on anyone
• If you’ve had low GPA, or you dropped out from your first nursing school, give a story that proves you did so to help someone e.g. aging or sick parents
• Adhere to the guidelines. Ensure that the essay is within the given number of words, font and spacing. Most essays are 400-500 words long.

Get more information about how to write a good scholarship essay that will be accepted .

Why I Want to Be a Nurse: Example A

I’ve researched several dictionaries for the word ‘nurse’, and I must admit that they disappoint me. They believe it’s a professional who takes care of sick people. However, that sounds impersonal and simple and does not fully describe the work a nurse does. I believe there is more to being a nurse than just “taking care of sick people.” As the adage goes “nurses are people whose need to understand supersedes the need to be understood.”  I believe it’s the nursing profession that holds the world, literally. People who have saved lives on given circumstances are regarded as heroes. However, only nurses save lives every day. I believe it takes determination, self-will, and passion to achieve this status, and in summary, that’s why I want to be a nurse.

So, am I possibly motivated by the money? Well, sometimes, it is easy to be attracted to the salaries that those who work in the medical field get. But again, as we may all know, nurses don’t get much. It’s a decision that I’ve made; that I’d rather have a fulfilling career than have money without one. A good nurse is a person who meets penniless people who need medical attention and helps them without much regard to what they have in their accounts. Saving lives comes first especially because money can be quantified and made, but life cannot.

I’m the kind of a person that gets a heartache when I see people suffering. I want to help. And, I want to be part of the people who help people live a pain-free life. In school, I always loved to be the first to attend to kids who experienced nose-bleeding. It’s probably why I belonged to both the Scouts and St John’s Ambulance associations. I felt within me an urge to give a hand to everyone who needed it. I did not have enough skills, though. In spite of that, I mastered the little we’d been taught about first aid and I always put it to action. It’s one of the ways I came to know that nursing was what I wanted for a career.

The feeling of helping needy people doesn’t end with the sick. Whenever I walk down the street, I often see people begging for pennies so that they can provide for their families. Well, I don’t really think they are acting on their own will. In fact, most of those beggars and homeless people do what they do for the sake of their families and children. This leaves me helpless. I want to help them attain a stable life, and help them directly. That’s why I will do anything in my power to help a person in need, even if he or she is a complete stranger.

Life for me hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to grow up with my grandparents. They didn’t have much money and I always wanted to be able to provide for them one day. With time, I’ve learnt to love and take care of the elderly. The good thing about such experiences is that they equipped me with striking character traits that point towards the nursing profession. I am an understanding, empathetic, and confident diplomatic quick learner with great communicative skills . I know I will need these skills as a nurse. However, to be able to take this path, all I need is excellent education to become who I was meant to be.

Why I Want to Be a Nurse: Example B

After I got my examination results, and I told my parents that I wanted to be a nurse, they had mixed feelings. Yes, they always knew I wanted to help people, study hard, and work in the medical field. However, the fact I had chosen nursing and not anything else despite my high GPA was not wholly welcome for them. Fortunately, my aunt, who is a retired nurse, was able to convince them to let me pursue my passion. So, why have I always wanted to be a nurse?

Well, my life, character, mindset, and motivation have always been in this profession. I’m a person who loves to help people in pain to recover. It’s been so much in me that when I was a kid, I could ‘nurse’ my dog Tommy for the whole day. I didn’t know that I was subconsciously practicing for a path that I’d pursue for the rest of my life.

I believe that nursing is a calling, and that I’m one of the chosen. As a kid, I liked how concerned my aunt was about us. I was fond of her and she could always pick me to visit my grandparents in the weekends. It was not only fun, but also a chance to attend to them. It gave me great joy to see them happy and I knew I was already in love with helping the elderly, children, the sick, and the needy. In the process, I learnt that people in need aren’t always far from us. They are also not always in the hospital. They are right where we are and I should help them.

So, when I went to school, I took biological courses with great passion. I wanted to learn how the human body works and how illness occur. Off studies, I loved to be the person offering first aid to pupils who were injured. In fact, I had become so popular in this that kids first called me before we reported to the school nurse. It gave me great admiration to see how the nurse attended to the kids. Every day, I knew I wanted to become a nurse and be like him.

Every time I hear about a voluntary medical mission , I want to be part of it. I believe that a fulfilling career should have little to do with the money or remunerations offered and much with providing services. In life, I’ve learnt that happiness is everything, and that life is too short to count all the pennies in the world! To me, life is priceless because no amount of money can purchase the life of a human being. This has taught me to disregard the wealth of individuals in the face of saving life. I want to be the nurse that attends to people without even giving a thought to what I am going to get in return.

My personal attributes, inspirations, and character all point towards nursing. I’m a dedicated, loving, listening, understanding, concerned, and empathetic quick learner. It’s my strong belief that these traits set me a notch higher towards achieving my life goal of becoming a nurse. It’s my hope that I’ll get the chance to receive the esteemed education needed to do this.

Why I Want to Be a Nurse: Example C

My passion to become a nurse started in my childhood when I watched my mother work as a nurse. She built good relationships with her patients and she did all that she could in order to ensure they felt comfortable. This informed my decision to choose nursing as a career because it will provide me with a challenging but rewarding work as well as stable work opportunities. I want to experience growth in my career and I am sure nursing will enable me to advance and specialize. This way, I will be able to continue challenging myself while providing the best possible care to my patients.

When I was in middle school, I got involved in a car accident which saw me spend a week as an inpatient in hospital. I watched with awe how the nurses were committed to offering attention and care to the patients, me included. Unlike the doctors who only appeared briefly during their daily rounds, the nurses were always there, ensuring that I was comfortable and on the right path to recovery. They made less scary and a little easier a situation that would have otherwise been a difficult one. I realized just how much nurses mean to their patients. From thence, I decided that I would also become a nurse and make a difference for my patients by helping them through the difficult period of illness.

My decision to become a nurse was also informed by my desire to learn new things. As a nurse, I will have to keep challenging myself to keep abreast with medical training and trends. This will ensure that I continue to care for my patients in the best possible manner. In my everyday practice in my workplace, I will learn at least something new from both my patients and colleagues. This will inspire me to continue exploring deeper knowledge of the procedures and techniques I apply on a daily basis. I thus consider nursing a rich field for personal learning and development.

As I moved through my high school education, I realized that I possess some of the qualities that are needed for nursing. For example, I established that I am a good communicator who is both good at listening and providing feedback. I realized this during group and class discussions during which I would lead discussions and respond to various questions from my fellow students satisfactorily. I believe a good nurse should be able to communicate effectively with their patients and explain things to them clearly both in a nontechnical and technical way.  

Further, I am a team worker. I would be no different from a square peg in a round hole if I found myself working in a profession where there is little or no teamwork. I particularly embrace working in a team because just like any other person, I can never be perfect in terms of skills and abilities. I will definitely need someone to complement my shortcomings and inadequacies in performing my job tasks. I thus further want to become a nurse so I may thrive in the teamwork aspect of a nursing environment. I will highly be satisfied working with fellow healthcare professionals, including doctors and fellow nurses, in providing my patients with the best care possible.

Finally, I have always wanted to pursue a fulfilling career and I believe nursing is one of them. By caring for people during their time of need on sickbeds, I will be able to get a gratifying feeling. I will be fulfilled knowing that I will be doing something great for humanity while also developing myself in the process. Service to humanity is service to God and sickness is one of the times that people need help the most. Therefore, becoming a nurse would be to live the dream of my life.

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The Road to Becoming a Registered Nurse: Your Guide to a BSN Degree

If you are exploring nursing programs in Michigan with plans to become a registered nurse (RN), there are a couple of degree options to consider. From an associate degree in nursing (ADN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and beyond, how can you know which is right for your career goals? Likewise, how long does it take to become a registered nurse once you complete your formal education? Read on below as we address these questions.

What Is a BSN Degree?

A bachelor’s degree in nursing is an undergraduate program that typically consists of around 120 credit hours and takes about four years to complete for a student who is enrolled full-time. An ADN, on the other hand, requires fewer credits and can typically be completed in two years.

What education is needed to become a registered nurse? An ADN or BSN can qualify you to become a registered nurse (RN) in the state of Michigan, but a  BSN nursing program  can help you build foundational skills, high-level critical thinking skills. and can provide diverse knowledge that you can apply to your work in the field. Also, if you have plans to someday obtain your master’s in nursing (MSN), you’ll need a minimum of an ADN degree to enroll in graduate studies.

Specializations in BSN Nursing

In addition, it is worth noting that a comprehensive BSN program may offer specific courses and clinical experiences that allow you to focus your studies on an area of nursing that is most interesting to you. Some examples of popular nursing specializations you may want to consider include:

• Pediatric nursing
• Critical care
• Public health

Elective courses and focused training can help students in a BSN program better prepare for the realities of working in their chosen area of nursing.

6 Benefits of a BSN Degree

Compared to an ADN, there are numerous potential benefits of completing a BSN degree program.

1. Improved Job Prospects

For starters, the additional credit hours required with a BSN program mean you’ll have more education under your belt when it’s time to start working as an RN. You can leverage this experience and knowledge to pursue more advanced roles in nursing that are beyond the entry level.

2. Higher Earning Potential

Oftentimes, more advanced roles in nursing that you can pursue with a BSN also pay better than “traditional” entry-level RN roles. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual pay for an RN is $86,070 as of 2023. However, the highest 10% earned more than $132,680 during the same time frame. By having a BSN as opposed to an ADN, you may be able to pursue jobs in nursing that comparatively pay more.

3. Enhanced Clinical Skills and Knowledge

Because a great BSN program will include not just classroom instruction but also plenty of hands-on, real-world clinical experience, this can enhance your clinical skills and understanding of various areas of the field. This is especially true if you pursue a specialization in nursing, where you can receive even more comprehensive, focused instruction and training.

4. Opportunities for Career Advancement

Having a BSN may also lead to more opportunities for career advancement, particularly if you use your BSN as a foundation to pursue a graduate degree (such as an MSN). This, in turn, could open the door to future opportunities in nursing leadership roles and even nurse educator jobs.

5. Greater Job Security

Although an ADN alone can indeed qualify you to become an RN, the reality is that many healthcare facilities these days are looking to hire RNs with a minimum of a BSN degree. This is especially true for healthcare facilities aiming to achieve Magnet status, which is a certification of nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center ( ANCC ), as this  often requires them  to employ a higher percentage of BSN-prepared nurses.

6. Increased Flexibility and Mobility

Many states accept both ADN and BSN degrees as a prerequisite to becoming an RN, but by earning your BSN, you can enjoy the increased flexibility and mobility that comes with knowing your license will be accepted in every state. This way, if you decide to explore career opportunities outside of Michigan, you’ll be in good shape.

5 Steps to Become a Registered Nurse With a BSN

Wondering how to become a registered nurse? Again, requirements vary by state—so it’s important to check your state’s requirements before proceeding. The information that follows is specific to the state of Michigan.

Step 1: Research and Choose a Nursing Program

First, research nursing colleges in Michigan that offer BSN programs. From there, you can take your time comparing what each program has to offer in terms of class formats, scheduling, clinical experience opportunities, and the like. Other potential factors to consider include accreditation, cost, and program length.

Step 2: Admission Requirements

Once you know where you want to attend your nursing program, look closely at the requirements for admission. This may include prerequisites for certain classes, a minimum GPA from a high school diploma or GED program, and standardized test scores (such as the  Test of Essential Academic Skills ).

Some nursing programs may require additional application materials, such as a personal statement and letters of recommendation. Regardless of your chosen program’s requirements, make sure you check off everything on the list and give yourself plenty of time to meet the application deadline.

Step 3: Complete the BSN Curriculum

Once your application is approved and you’re enrolled, you will begin taking courses toward completion of your BSN curriculum. This may include classes in topics such as healthcare informatics, pharmacology, and more. Many BSN programs also require students to complete clinical experiences, where they are able to gain hands-on practice in the field.

Step 4: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

After completing your BSN program, the next step toward earning your RN license is to take and pass the  National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) . This standardized exam is designed to test your knowledge of key nursing topics, and passing the exam is a requirement for RN licensure.

Step 5: Obtain State Licensure

Once you’ve passed your NCLEX-RN exam, you can apply for licensure in your state. In Michigan, applicants are required to submit to a criminal background check, provide verification of their NCLEX-RN exam scores, and show proof of their formal nursing degree. Depending on where you plan to work, requirements may differ—so it’s essential to research RN licensure requirements in your chosen state.

Nursing Programs in Michigan

If you’re looking at nursing programs in Michigan, there is a wide variety from which to choose (including both traditional and accelerated nursing programs).

The BSN Program at Baker College

At Baker College, our BSN program consists of 120 credit hours of instruction and clinical experience—and is designed specifically for those who are pre-licensure and looking to obtain their RN license.

Curriculum Highlights

You can view our full curriculum here . In a nutshell, though, Baker College’s BSN in nursing program includes:

• Prerequisite courses (25 hours)
• Nursing courses (62 hours)
• Additional required courses (18 hours)
• General education courses (15 hours)

For a student enrolled full time, Baker’s BSN program takes an average of four years to complete.

Program Outcomes

Students who complete a BSN program at Baker College graduate equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to competently provide comprehensive nursing care in dynamic, diverse healthcare settings. Plus, RN candidates are better prepared to perform well on their nursing exams . 

Available BSN Scholarships

To make paying for school more feasible, Baker College also offers a number of financial aid options to students. This includes scholarships specifically for adult learners with zero to minimal college experience, first-generation college students, and beyond. You can learn more about both renewable and non-renewable scholarships available at Baker College (as well as how to apply) here .

Student Resources

Additionally, Baker is committed to making sure students have access to the  support and resources  they need to succeed in their respective programs. This includes access to our Academic Resource Center, robust learning support services, disability resources, and more.

Baker’s Accelerated BSN Program

For students who already have a bachelor’s degree in a different field, it may be worth exploring our  accelerated BSN program  as a means of completing your BSN in less time with transfer credits. Students in this program graduate in an average of two years (compared to four years with the traditional BSN program).

Baker Advanced Degrees

Baker College also offers advanced nursing degrees for those who decide to take their education to the next level beyond a BSN. Specifically, our  Master of Science in Nursing Administration  and Master of Science in Nursing Education are popular options among those who strive to pursue more advanced leadership and management roles in the field.

Start on the Path to Becoming an RN

The path to becoming an RN requires a fair amount of formal education, experience, and passing of the NCLEX-RN examination. Even once you’re certified as an RN, you’ll need to keep your license active by renewing it  every two years  in the state of Michigan.Still seeking ideal bachelor’s in nursing programs to help you work toward your professional goals? Baker College is proud to offer a  BSN curriculum  that allows you to learn your way while gaining valuable, hands-on experience in real clinical settings.  Get in touch  to learn more about our 120-credit-hour  BSN nursing degree program —or feel free to get started with your online  application  today.

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