Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003

As a Registered nurse for two years, my passion for becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner continues to grow. I have a plan to work with children and adolescents who encounter mental health illnesses. Walden’s mission is related to my academic goals of becoming a Nurse-Practitioner by being an institution with a diverse community. “Walden University provides a diverse community of career professionals with the opportunity to transform themselves as scholar-practitioners so that they can effect positive social change.” (2011). It is critical in the nursing field to have nurses and nurse practitioners adapt to different communities and people of different backgrounds. I found a great way to adapt to diversity is by educating yourself upon the different cultures. Being educated on a different cultural background also helps with providing high-quality patient care. With Walden University being a university that allows for a diverse community, it positively impacts our academic careers. 

“To provide an inquiry/action model of education that fosters research, discovery, and critical thinking and that results in professional excellence.” (2011). Research, critical thinking are daily components of being in the health care field. Researching helps advance the health care field by discovering new methods and exploring the reasoning behind different aspects. Critical thinking is the backbone of nursing. We are constantly critical thinking in complex situations to ensure our patients receive the quality care they deserve.

Walden MSN program outcomes and perspectives relate to my goal of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by evaluating the health needs of diverse populations based on my nursing knowledge to help prevent illness and manage their health. As it is the year 2021, networking is critical in almost any and every field. I have learned how critical it is and how many positions I have been offered from the gift of networking.” “Both Yale University and Cornell University cite the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) when claiming that 70% of all jobs are found through networking.” (Schmidt, 2018)  Networking in the academic field of a Nurse Practitioner is a crucial component not only for the preceptorship aspect of being in the program but also for landing a position after graduate school. In addition, networking is a brilliant way to engage with people. “Tens of millions of people use the internet, and social media is where you can find potential partners, mentors, and collaborations.” (Wofford, 2018)

“Walden supports positive social change through the development of principled, knowledgeable, and ethical scholar-practitioners, who are and will become civic and professional role models by advancing the betterment of society.” (2011) In life, my dream is to positively impact adolescents and children who encounter mental health illnesses. I plan to contribute my knowledge and help children and adolescents live a quality of life without battling anxiety and depression. I believe helping children defeat mental health illnesses when they are young will improve their quality of life in the long run.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

Schmidt, K. (n.d.). 5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking. Retrieved October 12, 2018, from https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/

Walden university. (2011). https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=153

Wofford, P. (2018, May 24). 10 networking tips for nurses who hate networking. https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/

People grow up in communities where everyday challenges require advanced skills to solve them practically. The same case applies to the nursing profession, where nurses acquire skills to solve health problems. I grew up in communities where mental health and substance abuse have ruined many people’s lives and dragged community progress. I firmly believe that helping people overcome these problems can create a better society for all. Walden University offers a suitable program that would enable me to achieve this crucial personal goal.

Walden’s vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives relate directly to my professional goals and path towards becoming a scholar-practitioner. Walden University envisions a situation where graduates can apply knowledge to the immediate solutions of critical societal challenges while creating career professionals capable of transforming themselves as scholar-practitioners to effect positive social change (Walden University, 2021). The goal is to produce agents of social change, and I believe that the degree program is an excellent opportunity for me to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to make society better through mental health care. Walden University depicts positive social change as improving human and social conditions (Walden University, 2021). Mental health care will undoubtedly advance the betterment of society.

Concerning the MSN program outcomes and perspectives, the program is designed to enable students to identify society’s health needs, become leaders, manage technology and information, and develop a lifelong commitment to learning. MSN-prepared nurses should integrate research to guide decision-making and lead in developing cost-effective healthcare strategies to reduce health disparities (Walden University, 2021). As a scholar-practitioner, I perceive professional development as a lifelong commitment as I continue acquiring skills to transform health outcomes for diverse populations.

Like other professionals, nurses need professional networking. It is challenging to go through the nursing journey successfully without the necessary professional and social support. Networking allows nurses to explore the field and develop strong support systems within the healthcare field (NurseJournal Staff, 2021). It is important for career advancement, information, and mentorship. Mental health and psychiatric care professionals need professional support and information on nursing trends and advancements. Nurses also need to come together to influence healthcare systems to implement processes and procedures that advance patient-centered care.

In conclusion, nurses have different career objectives that prompt them to pursue different specialties in various learning institutions. Walden University’s vision, mission, and goals align with my professional and personal goals. I believe that it can also offer me the networking opportunities I need to grow as a professional and individual capable of advancing positive social change.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

NurseJournal Staff. (2021, Jun 7). Professional networking in nursing. NurseJournal. https://nursejournal.org/resources/networking-in-nursing/

Walden University. (2021). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). https://catalog.waldenu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=179&poid=72167&returnto=65560

Walden University. (2021). Vision, mission, and goals. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=179&navoid=65155

This week’s Discussion asks you to think about how the Walden mission and vision and the College of Nursing mission and vision apply to your professional and academic goals. You will also begin to identify individuals and teams that can help you along the way, as you begin to design the “blueprint”—your Academic Success and Professional Development Plan—that will guide you toward your own vision for academic and professional success.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003

To Prepare:

Review the Walden and the College of Nursing mission and vision statements, Walden’s goals and University Outcomes, and the MSN Program Learning Outcomes presented in this week’s Learning Resources.

Reflect on your professional and academic goals as they relate to your program/specialization.

Consider how the information in these resources fit with your own goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner.

Also consider academic and professional individuals and teams that you may collaborate with in support of your efforts as a student at the University and as a professional within your organization and career.

Nurs 6002-Discussion week 1

As a Registered nurse for two years, my passion for becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner continues to grow. I have a plan to work with children and adolescents who encounter mental health illnesses. Walden’s mission is related to my academic goals of becoming a Nurse-Practitioner by being an institution with a diverse community. “Walden University provides a diverse community of career professionals with the opportunity to transform themselves as scholar-practitioners so that they can effect positive social change.” (2011).

It is critical in the nursing field to have nurses and nurse practitioners adapt to different communities and people of different backgrounds. I found a great way to adapt to diversity is by educating yourself upon the different cultures. Being educated on a different cultural background also helps with providing high-quality patient care. With Walden University being a university that allows for a diverse community, it positively impacts our academic careers. 

“To provide an inquiry/action model of education that fosters research, discovery, and critical thinking and that results in professional excellence.” (2011). Research, critical thinking are daily components of being in the health care field. Researching helps advance the health care field by discovering new methods and exploring the reasoning behind different aspects. Critical thinking is the backbone of nursing. We are constantly critical thinking in complex situations to ensure our patients receive the quality care they deserve.

Walden MSN program outcomes and perspectives relate to my goal of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by evaluating the health needs of diverse populations based on my nursing knowledge to help prevent illness and manage their health. As it is the year 2021, networking is critical in almost any and every field. I have learned how critical it is and how many positions I have been offered from the gift of networking.” “Both Yale University and Cornell University cite the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) when claiming that 70% of all jobs are found through networking.” (Schmidt, 2018)  Networking in the academic field of a Nurse Practitioner is a crucial component not only for the preceptorship aspect of being in the program but also for landing a position after graduate school. In addition, networking is a brilliant way to engage with people. “Tens of millions of people use the internet, and social media is where you can find potential partners, mentors, and collaborations.” (Wofford, 2018).

My name is Lindsay Barrientos, I have been an RN for 6 years now. I initially graduated from an ADN in 2014 and later obtained a BSN online in 2017. To say the least, my journey in nursing has taken many turns during these six years, I have dabbled in travel nursing and many different specialties. In 2020, I came to the conclusion that in order elevate the quality of my treatment I would have to get back to school and obtain my master’s degree. I’ve reviewed many universities and Walden seems like the right fit for me. Walden’s values revolve around advocating for the advancement of global health. “Walden University envisions a distinctively different 21st-century learning community where knowledge is judged worthy to the degree that it can be applied by its graduates to the immediate solutions of critical societal challenges, thereby advancing the greater global good (Walden University, 2020).”

Needless to say global health is more important now than ever, and as a healthcare provider I agree. As far as the mission is concerned, I would like to also share my point of view that positive societal change will essentially fall in place when the world becomes healthier. And according to Walden University students, alumni and faculty are committed to improving the human and social condition by creating and applying ideas to promote the development of individuals, communities, and organizations as well as society as a whole (Walden Introduction, 2020).

But how do we reach that? Well, this university has put a roadmap called outcomes. I believe these outcomes will inevitably bring communities closer to health. The outcome that resonates with me more is the ability to demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning (Walden University, 2020). To practice this commitment every day would help mold any of the future practitioners in this class, we could never be unprepared. This is so applicable to the nursing word, I see it day in and day out. During the pandemic nurses have had to quickly adhere to new protocols and learn new treatments. I have nothing else but to continue to remain open to knowledge as I continue to dive deeper into this degree.

It also stands to reason that global health would have to take into consideration multi contextual education. Graduates who fully engage with multicultural communities gain a broader understanding of health disparities and social determinants of health. (Bryan-Moore, Williams, 2018). Along with this understanding I believe my many experiences as a traveler nurse would help me become a more well-rounded and humble practitioner.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References:

Introduction. Walden University. Catalog (2020, September). Retrieved from:https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=168&navoid=58167.

Vision, Mission, and Goals. Walden University. Catalog (2020, September). Retrieved from: https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=153&navoid=49950.

Bryant-Moore, K., Bachelder, A., Rainey, L., Hayman, K., Bessette, A., & Williams, C. (2018). Use of service learning to increase                    master’s-level nursing students’ understanding of social determinants of health and health disparities.                                                        Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 29(5), 473–479. https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1177/1043659617753043

“Walden supports positive social change through the development of principled, knowledgeable, and ethical scholar-practitioners, who are and will become civic and professional role models by advancing the betterment of society.” (2011) In life, my dream is to positively impact adolescents and children who encounter mental health illnesses. I plan to contribute my knowledge and help children and adolescents live a quality of life without battling anxiety and depression. I believe helping children defeat mental health illnesses when they are young will improve their quality of life in the long run.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

Schmidt, K. (n.d.). 5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking. Retrieved October 12, 2018, from https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/

Walden university. (2011). https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=153

Wofford, P. (2018, May 24). 10 networking tips for nurses who hate networking. https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/

Click here to ORDER NOW FOR AN ORIGINAL PAPER ASSIGNMENT:  Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003  

By Day 3

Create a brief post introducing yourself to your coworkers. Include a description of how Walden’s vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives relate to your professional and academic objectives, as well as your desire to become a scholar-practitioner. Include a description of how the Walden MSN program outcomes and perspectives relate to your professional and academic goals, as well as your desire to become a scholar-practitioner.

I have been a nurse for five years. I started my career as a neuro med surg nurse where I quickly learned neuro was more than just dealing with the nervous system. There were some patients that dealt with psychology issues as well. The last four years of my nursing career I did travel nursing to different states, as well as locally. During this journey I learned patient care does not change, and do to the pandemic more people are dealing with psych issues. My long term professional goal is to become a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

I participated in the AIM program at Walden which involved me getting my BSN degree with the completion of 3 Master classes. To reach this goal I just remained active and did not take any breaks to achieve this professional goal. As stated in Walden vision statement nursing, health, and related sciences will transform the provision of nursing services along the continuum of care and across the human life span to meet the needs of individuals and local and global communities. (2021a) I believe this is true. I have taken everything I have learned in previous courses with this university and use the knowledge I gained in my everyday nursing.

Since I am a returning Walden University student, I believe the mission speak value within itself, you do not just obtain knowledge you also utilize it in your everyday advanced profession as well, this is why I continued to further my education at this facility.

NURS 6003 Week 1 Discussion Networking Opportunities

Support the main post with three more recent, credible sources, and cite sources within the posting’s content and on a reference list in proper APA format.

By Day 6

On two separate days, respond to at least two of your colleagues by suggesting additional individuals and/or teams with whom to collaborate or by offering additional networking strategies.

In each required response to classmates’ main post, provide support from at least two current, credible sources and cite per APA.

It’s great that you found your calling of being a Nurse. I’m sure your experience as CNA, medical assistant, and lab technician broadens your overall view of healthcare even more which will definitely help you in the future as you will be working with these healthcare specialties as a  nurse practitioner. All of us chose Walden University as a choice of school due to the fact that our mission, vision, and goals align with the ones Walden University holds, which includes preparing the students “for the greater good” to help the communities in need (Walden University, 2020). As you’ve mentioned that you want to help the minorities in need, there is a huge number of disparities within communities when it comes to access to education, healthcare, mental health, and addiction medicine help. I truly believe we can make a difference by becoming the providers within our communities as we hold a high sense of compassion that has been taught to us since the beginning of our nursing careers. As you’ve mentioned the importance of networking, I do want to mention that working on our networking at the beginning of our journey will help us transition to our new role easier. It all starts with our program advisor and extends to and beyond our clinical practicum. Expanding our networking to organizations, LinkedIn profiles, clinical preceptors during practicum, physicians and NP colleagues would greatly help up find the area where we can fit in and fulfill our vision and goal (Writers, 2020). 

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

Walden University (2020). College of Nursing. Retrieved from

https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/fieldexperience/son#s-lg-box-3837398

Writers, S. (2020). Professional Networking in Nursing – 2019 NurseJournal.org. Retrieved from https://nursejournal.org/articles/networking/

While I have only been a nurse for a little over a year, I have always known that my goal would be to eventually further my education. Having caught COVID earlier this year I decided the best time to try to achieve your goals is while you still have it. I chose to attend Walden University because of its focus on preparing its students to practice in the field. The emphasis on evidence-based practice and the development of critical thinking skills appealed to me. I became interested in psychiatric mental health nursing during clinical in nursing school in which I had the opportunity to work with adolescent patients. My particular interest is in mental health in communities of color because of the stigma that is still attached due to culture and religious issues. As Walden has a diverse student as well as faculty population, I believe it will create a positive learning environment.

We have all heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” Healthcare is not a field in which a man can be an island. In other words, we must work with others and become part of an interdisciplinary team to ensure positive outcomes for our patients. Networking allows for the collaboration of people with varying backgrounds and experiences which can aid in the development of new ideas and finding answers to questions you may not have otherwise. In essence, networking is “relationship building to achieve goals.” (Drake, 2017) Making these connections can help you find a job or new opportunity, expand your knowledge, increase your self-confidence, and improve your interpersonal skills.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

Drake, Kirsten DNP, RN, OCN, NEA-BC (2017) The power of networking, Nursing

Management (Springhouse): September 2017 – Vol. 48 – Issue 9 – p 56. doi: 10.1097/01.NUMA.0000522184.39403.65

Walden University. (2015). School of Nursing Mission and Vision. Retrieved from 

https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=122&navoid=35010

RE: discussion posting guidelines/expectations
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My name is Chanel Tyson and I am a new graduate Emergency Department Nurse. I recently just graduated in May and I have been working in my new role since July. While in school I provided tutoring to students in various classes which led me obtain a passion for teaching. My ultimate end goal is to become a nursing school and clinical instructor to undergraduate students. In addition, I plan to start a mentoring program for nursing students and new graduate nurses to provide support and advice to people in need. To be in the teaching profession, I knew that I needed to further my education to reach my professional goals.

Discussion Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 Week 1

Vision, Mission & Social Change

Walden University was referred to me by a colleague that also attended here and obtained her advanced practice degree. In doing my research of various programs, Walden’s program intrigued me because of the flexibility and dedication to professional development that they provided. As an aspiring professor, I want to uplift and contribute to change to upcoming nurses which relates to Walden University’s mission statement which is to “provide a diverse community of career professionals with the opportunity to transform themselves so that they can provide social change.” (Walden University, 2020)

Being a professor, I want to instill lifelong knowledge to my students and leave an impression that motivates more students to want to become a professor just like me. There is a nursing school professor shortage and I want to help change that which will contribute to ending the nursing shortage we have today. Walden’s vision correlates with my professional goals because the knowledge I obtain from this school will help me spread what I know to other aspiring nurses that will eventually be working in various communities.

Program Outcomes

Being an educator and leader, you must be able to communicate effectively which of one Walden’s learning outcomes. Effective communication is essential in being an educator and setting an example for other students. At the end of this program, I want to be a Nursing Educator that knows how to give information correctly and have professional dialog with my students. Also, I would like to know how to effectively assess and plan different diagnoses to become more competent in different disease processes.

(Walden University, 2020) This goal is instilled in Walden’s MSN outcomes and will help me become more knowledgeable and be able to efficiently educate my students. As a future educator, my beliefs and goals are very similar to Walden’s Vision, Mission, and Goals. Proving a better education to the community is my passion and enhancing my knowledge through Walden University will ensure that I am prepared in my mission.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

2019–2020 Walden University Catalog. Vision, Mission, and Goals (March 2020). (2020). Retrieved August 30, 2020, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=172

2019–2020 Walden University Catalog (March 2020). (2020). Retrieved August 30, 2020, fromhttps://catalog.waldenu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=172

Walden University, (2020), Master of Science in Nursing, Nursing Informatics- in Nursing (MSN), Retrieved from https://www.waldenu.edu/online-masters-programs/msn-nursing-informatics Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003

RE: Discussion – Week 1

When it comes to wanting to enhance my education but not knowing where to begin, I was same to you. Social media was my primary source of assistance, as it is today’s most popular networking strategy. I believe that, when used properly, social media can be extremely potent and beneficial. “Today is the social media age. There has never been a better time for nurses. With instant access to data and tools, social media is rapidly becoming the most valuable resource for professional networking. It is among the most effective means of forming alliances “(Walker, 2018, para. 2 ). I am a firm believer in the aforementioned assertion made by Walker.

I use Facebook and Instagram to create networking contacts with other nurses who share both professional and personal objectives and aspirations. I used the hashtags #WaldenUniversity and #WaldenUniversityAlumni to interact with others and learn about their Walden experiences. I feel that this networking strategy might be employed not only professionally by using a hashtag of a hospital in which you are interested, but also by using a hashtag of a subject in which you are struggling and need study resources. Numerous nurses maintain Instagram vlogs in which they offer various study guidelines and tools in an entertaining manner. As we are our own community, I am always searching for opportunities to create relationships with other nurses.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

Walker, A. (2018, May 24).10 Networking Tips for Nurses Who Hate Networking. Nurse.org.

https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/.

When comparing colleges, various variables must be considered. The institution itself is the initial factor to evaluate. Would you rather attend a private liberal arts institution or a major research university? Will you accept nothing but the finest of the finest schools? Find TheBest allows you to search with several search filters. You can search by state to locate New York or California institutions, or you can search by geographic region, degree type, cost, test-score enrollment rates, and more. P.R Andrew (2018). With this being my second degree from this institution, I can confidently say that picking Walden was an excellent decision. I earned my bachelor’s degree through the AIM program, and it has been an exciting adventure. I intend to become a PMHNP within the next couple of years while acquiring the abilities necessary for an advanced job.

Networking is the process of establishing meaningful relationships with others, which help you achieve your economic, social, and emotional objectives. When planned properly, networking becomes a method for identifying and targeting specific places and activities that lead to relationships with others who can assist you in achieving your goals. Greenwald, C.S (2020). I have encountered numerous mentors and leaders during my Walden experience and nursing profession. You must be willing to advance and not allow your pride stand in your way. Accomplish not let anyone claim you can not do it. Excellent post!

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

P.R Andrew. (2018, February 16). Let FindTheBest Help You Choose the Best College. PR Newswire US

Greenwald, C. S. (2020, March 1). Up Close and Personal: Building Authentic Trust Relationships by Networking In the ever-increasing world of technology, in-person networking and marketing are essential to create genuine trust relationships and help you to grow your business. Law Practice, 46(2), 34.

I appreciated reading your article. Indeed, Walden provides us with possibilities to be agents of social change. Most of the time in life, we watch others accomplishing amazing things, and we wonder how they got started and where their confidence came from. Knowledge is power, and its good use to improve the lives of others is even more potent.

As I go through our reading list, I am both overwhelmed and heartened by the fact that, by the time I complete this program, I will be equipped with the knowledge and bravery to impact change in my local community and beyond.

Listed in the Walden University Catalog (n.d.) are a number of anecdotes of individuals who brought their Walden education back to their communities. I, too, was beginning to feel lost and “boxed in” in my profession, but now I have renewed optimism.

According to Schmidt, nurses are increasingly involved in virtually all aspects of patient care. The accomplishments of nurses will have a favorable effect on their companies as a whole. He continued by stating that networking informs nurses about current events and industry trends. Networking can also assist nurses obtain new positions. I am certain of this since, despite all my degrees and bad networking, I have not advanced in my career as I had hoped. However, I will now use what I am learning about networking to advance in my field.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

Schmidt, K. (n.d.). 5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking. BluePipes Blog. https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/.

Walden University (n.d.) Connect to Walden. Retrieved June 4, 2021, from https://www.waldenu.edu/connect

It’s great that you found your calling of being a Nurse. I’m sure your experience as CNA, medical assistant, and lab technician broadens your overall view of healthcare even more which will definitely help you in the future as you will be working with these healthcare specialties as a  nurse practitioner. All of us chose Walden University as a choice of school due to the fact that our mission, vision, and goals align with the ones Walden University holds, which includes preparing the students “for the greater good” to help the communities in need (Walden University, 2020). As you’ve mentioned that you want to help the minorities in need, there is a huge number of disparities within communities when it comes to access to education, healthcare, mental health, and addiction medicine help. I truly believe we can make a difference by becoming the providers within our communities as we hold a high sense of compassion that has been taught to us since the beginning of our nursing careers. As you’ve mentioned the importance of networking, I do want to mention that working on our networking at the beginning of our journey will help us transition to our new role easier. It all starts with our program advisor and extends to and beyond our clinical practicum. Expanding our networking to organizations, LinkedIn profiles, clinical preceptors during practicum, physicians and NP colleagues would greatly help up find the area where we can fit in and fulfill our vision and goal (Writers, 2020). 

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

Walden University (2020). College of Nursing. Retrieved from

https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/fieldexperience/son#s-lg-box-3837398

Writers, S. (2020). Professional Networking in Nursing – 2019 NurseJournal.org. Retrieved from https://nursejournal.org/articles/networking/

My Goals and Walden University’s Mission and Vision

According to Walden’s College of Nursing website, its vision is to “transform the provision of nursing services along the continuum of care and across the human life span to meet the needs of individuals and local and global communities (Walden University)”. This ambitious vision is set into action through Walden’s mission to “[seek] enhancement of critical thinking skills, abilities to select and implement evidence-based practices, and core and specialty nursing knowledge in order to transform society (Walden University).”

When searching for a University to further expand my nursing knowledge and skills in order to provide the best nursing care possible, I wasn’t really sure where to start; or even exactly sure of what I was looking for. However, when I found Walden University through a mutual friend and Walden Alum, its mission and vision really hit home for me.

I should start by introducing myself. My name is Elizabeth. I was born and raised in Southern California. As a child, I did not really know what I wanted to be when I grew up. I did know, however, that I wanted to help people and make a difference in people’s lives. Through the years my passion for nursing became my calling and I set out to become a critical care nurse; where I personally felt that I could make the biggest difference. As a critical care nurse for half a decade, I began to really reflect on my career in the last 5 years and realized that I had hit a point in my nursing life where I had officially navigated from “novice to expert” (Benner).  

Of course, in nursing there is always learning to be done, and I do not mean “expert” in a way where I know it all and there is nothing left to learn; but more of an “expert nurse [who] no longer relies on principles, rules, or guidelines to connect situations and determine actions” (Benner). I was able to get through my shift with enough critical thinking, nursing skills, and knowledge to feel 100% confident that I was taking care of my patients in the best way possible.  I hit a point where I felt that I was ready to learn more in order to be more for my patients’ and their families.

This was a ground-breaking moment in which for the first time in 5 years I felt lost in my career. So many different options in nursing; how would I possibly choose the right one? This is when I found Walden University and suddenly so many things became so much clearer. When I read Walden’s mission and vision which, in sum, strives “to meet the needs of individuals and local and global communities” and “transform society” through critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and specialized nursing knowledge I felt like it was calling out to me. Although I was not sure how I wanted to continue to expand my career in nursing, I knew that my goal and vision for my future was to further expand my nursing knowledge through evidence-based practice in order to promote my critical thinking skills to make a difference in the lives of the individuals and communities that I am blessed to work with. Being able to accomplish all of these things in addition to mastering Walden’s MSN learning outcomes, such as “exhibit[ing] ongoing commitment to professional development and value of nursing theories/ethical principles …”, in order to transform myself and create a positive social change at the individual, community and global levels, as Walden’s mission states, would make me feel truly accomplished as a nursing professional providing care to others.

Building relationships and Networking Opportunities

In addition to gaining all of the book knowledge and expanding my critical thinking skills from my courses at Walden, it is also crucial to begin to create relationships and a “social network” that would help make my goals more attainable. According to Schmidt, “a social network can be defined as a network of social interactions and personal relationships.” Building this network and establishing these relationships early on can help make a bigger impact in the long run.

For example, taking the first step to achieve my career and educational goals all started through a mutual relationship that I established in the past. A previous coworker who attended Walden several years ago that I have kept in touch with, was the one who first directed me to the university when I felt like I was at crossroads in my nursing career; not knowing which path I wanted to take. Had I not kept this relationship, I may have never found Walden and may still be in the same lost place that I was just a few months ago.

In this same fashion, many professionals discover once in a life-time opportunities that they otherwise may never have known existed, such as nursing conferences, volunteer opportunities, and even employment opportunities. As a matter of fact, “both Yale University and Cornell University …[claim] that 70% of all jobs are found through networking” (Schmidt). I look forward to further developing my networking skills at Walden and using these relationships in any way that I can in order to continue to help others and further enhance social change in a positive manner. As the old proverb goes, “there is power in numbers” and this could not be truer when it comes to building relationships and networking, especially in the health care industry.

References

College of Nursing Mission and Vision. Walden University. (n.d.). https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/fieldexperience/son#s-lg-box-3837398.

Dr. Patricia Benner. Nursing Theory. (2020, October 17). https://www.nursing-theory.org/nursing-theorists/Patricia-Benner.php.

MSN Learning Outcomes. Walden University. (n.d.). https://catalog.waldenu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=179&poid=72167&returnto=65560.

Schmidt, K. (n.d.). 5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking. BluePipes Blog. https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/.

Vision, Mission, and Goals. Walden University. (n.d.). https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=179&navoid=65155.

I do agree with you that Walden University provides an opportunity for continuous education for nurses and encourage career progression from one level to another. An advanced nurse training is a requisite to improved patient care and satisfaction through improved implementation of EBP projects (Mlambo et al., 2021). Nurses are also encouraged to network and create lasting connections with other healthcare practitioners. A nurse with a wide and suitable network is able to progress well through the career, meet new challenges and gain new knowledge and experiences (Drake, 2017). Additionally, this helps the nurse to access more opportunities that are rewarding and fulfilling. Through the university framework, students have the opportunity to establish life-long relations and collaborations that are meant to promote their career progression and advancement to the highest level of practice (Vatn & Dahl, 2021). There is a broadened perspective about nurse practice and this can help one easily work through multicultural communities and create a good social and cultural balance while supporting health care and well-being among community members.

References

Drake, K. (2017). The power of networking. Nursing Management (Springhouse), 48(9), 56. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.numa.0000522184.39403.65

Mlambo, M., Silén, C., & McGrath, C. (2021). Lifelong learning and nurses’ continuing professional development, a metasynthesis of the literature. BMC Nursing, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-021-00579-2

Vatn, L., & Dahl, B. M. (2021). Interprofessional collaboration between nurses and doctors for treating patients in surgical wards. Journal of Interprofessional Care, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1080/13561820.2021.1890703

Professional networking opportunities emphasize development of relationships and interactions among nurse practitioners and scholars. I have been a registered nurse (RN) with a BSN and my intent is to specialize as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Having a family and trying to advance one’s education can be complex but I believe that my resolve to go back to school is critical in changing my career advancement and attaining requisite qualifications to improve the quality of care outcomes. My goal is to specialize in psychiatric mental health as nurse practitioner to help individuals, households, and communities as well as the health system deal with the opioid epidemic and associated mental health issues. Through this, I can bring social change to families and patients. After reflection on furthering my education in nursing, I realized that getting a master’s degree as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) will offer the education, knowledge and skills that I require to serve the population (ANCC, n.d). Therefore, my academic and professional goals entail getting a master’s degree and probably getting a terminal degree like Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to position myself as a psychiatric-mental nurse practitioner who can practice independently. Through the incorporation of personal and professional values like compassion, empath, integrity and hard work, I will offer patient-centered care for better outcomes.

Getting the right school is essential to meet my professional goals. The Walden University’s School of Nursing (SON) (n.d) vision and mission statement inspires me to understand that I can attain these goals. The school’s vision is having a unique learning community where knowledge is considered valuable when it allows graduates to develop solutions to critical society problems to advance the greater global good. As a master’s student, the knowledge and skills I acquire in through this university and its nursing school should be applied to effect change in communities in different areas of healthcare provision.

The MSN program outcomes and perspectives relate to my professional and academic goals as they expect one to acquire skills as an advanced nurse practitioner to implement change in their communities. The program’s perspectives include having social change and deployment of skills to generate local solutions to local challenges (Walden University, n.d b). These relate to my goals of providing quality care to families and developing interventions based on evidence-based practices. As I become a scholar-practitioner, it implies that I should show more dedication and commitment because of the challenges of the combination. As such the MSN program outcomes and perspectives will help me understand what is expected and what lies ahead for effective adjustments.

Networking is important as it allows one to interact with goals, share best practices in care, and get the motivation and inspiration to pursue professional and career development paths. Networking will help me achieve my professional and academic goals through interaction with colleagues to develop inter-professional and multidisciplinary collaborations (AANP, n.d). Through the collaborations I will enhance approaches to patient situations and offer the best optimal care interventions.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) (n.d). Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse

Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) Certification (PMHNP-BC). https://www.nursingworld.org/our-certifications/psychiatric-mental-health-nurse-practitioner/

American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) (n.d). The Importance of NP Networking

 and How to Get Involved. https://www.aanp.org/news-feed/the-importance-of-np-networking-and-how-to-get-involved

Walden University (n.d.) Social Change. https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change

Walden University (n.d.b). Walden and Social Change.

            https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/social change/mission

People grow up in communities where everyday challenges require advanced skills to solve them practically. The same case applies to the nursing profession, where nurses acquire skills to solve health problems. I grew up in communities where mental health and substance abuse have ruined many people’s lives and dragged community progress. I firmly believe that helping people overcome these problems can create a better society for all. Walden University offers a suitable program that would enable me to achieve this crucial personal goal.

Walden’s vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives relate directly to my professional goals and path towards becoming a scholar-practitioner. Walden University envisions a situation where graduates can apply knowledge to the immediate solutions of critical societal challenges while creating career professionals capable of transforming themselves as scholar-practitioners to effect positive social change (Walden University, 2021). The goal is to produce agents of social change, and I believe that the degree program is an excellent opportunity for me to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to make society better through mental health care. Walden University depicts positive social change as improving human and social conditions (Walden University, 2021). Mental health care will undoubtedly advance the betterment of society.

Concerning the MSN program outcomes and perspectives, the program is designed to enable students to identify society’s health needs, become leaders, manage technology and information, and develop a lifelong commitment to learning. MSN-prepared nurses should integrate research to guide decision-making and lead in developing cost-effective healthcare strategies to reduce health disparities (Walden University, 2021). As a scholar-practitioner, I perceive professional development as a lifelong commitment as I continue acquiring skills to transform health outcomes for diverse populations.

Like other professionals, nurses need professional networking. It is challenging to go through the nursing journey successfully without the necessary professional and social support. Networking allows nurses to explore the field and develop strong support systems within the healthcare field (NurseJournal Staff, 2021). It is important for career advancement, information, and mentorship. Mental health and psychiatric care professionals need professional support and information on nursing trends and advancements. Nurses also need to come together to influence healthcare systems to implement processes and procedures that advance patient-centered care.

In conclusion, nurses have different career objectives that prompt them to pursue different specialties in various learning institutions. Walden University’s vision, mission, and goals align with my professional and personal goals. I believe that it can also offer me the networking opportunities I need to grow as a professional and individual capable of advancing positive social change.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

NurseJournal Staff. (2021, Jun 7). Professional networking in nursing. NurseJournal. https://nursejournal.org/resources/networking-in-nursing/

Walden University. (2021). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). https://catalog.waldenu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=179&poid=72167&returnto=65560

Walden University. (2021). Vision, mission, and goals. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=179&navoid=65155

Networking Opportunities

In this discussion board I will introduce myself, discuss Walden University’s foundation in relation to my aspirations, and the importance of professional networking. It is important to understand that each nurse has a unique background that influences the care they provide. Gaining nursing experiences and creating professional relationships can provide life long positive influences impacting patient’s lives, families, and communities.

Self-Introduction

My name is Krystal Simmons. I have worked in the healthcare system for over fifteen years in various settings. Some of my favorite nursing experiences include working in the primary care setting for seven years and the medical floor for almost two years.  I live in rural southern Ohio, married with two girls. In my free time I enjoy nature by running, hiking, kayaking, and swimming. 

 Dreams, Missions, and Visions

The vision and mission statements Walden University stands by promotes a modern curriculum in a challenging atmosphere that collaborates with each nursing professional’s lifestyle meeting the needs of individuals, families, and communities (Walden University, 2021). My plan for school is to become a family nurse practitioner and continue working in my rural hometown. I started this journey in 2017 after watching several nursing students complete clinicals at my primary care office. In 2019 I moved from the primary care setting to the inpatient medical floor to expand on my nursing background and experience. I feel that working on the medical floor has helped me become a better leader which will enhance my nursing as a practitioner in the future. Walden University’s MSN learning outcomes lists qualities a nursing professional will possess at the end of the program which includes the ongoing commitment to professional development, enhanced communications skills, and evidenced-based high-quality healthcare delivery skills (Walden University, 2021).

 Academic and Professional Networking

Starting out as a state tested nursing assistant in 2003, I have learned that continued education opportunities, new experiences, and effective communication skills are some core materials that make up good nursing professionals. With almost twenty years of service in the nursing field I have developed several professional mentors and role models who have inspired and motivated me to strive for my nurse practitioner degree. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) is just one group of professionals aimed at improving the health of the nation by supporting the advancement of the nurse practitioner role (American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 2021). Professional networking in the nursing field can take place in work and in continuing education settings. Professional networking within nursing professionals can influence healthcare systems, advance careers, and promote professional support in an ever changing, demanding profession (Schmidt, K., 2020).

In conclusion, I feel that gaining new experiences, creating new relationships, and learning to provide modern high quality evidenced based care will aide in my professional nursing development. Optimizing nursing experiences and relationships improves overall outcomes in all nursing aspects.

Discussion: Networking Opportunities NURS 6003 References

American Association of Nurse Practitioners. (2021).  Retrieved August 29, 2021, from https://www.aanp.org/membership

Schmidt, K. (2020). 5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking [Blog post]. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-professional-networking-seriously/

Walden University. (2021). College of Nursing. Retrieved August 29, 2021, from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/fieldexperience/son#s-log-box-3837398

Walden University. (2021). Walden University catalog. Retrieved August 29, 2021, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu

I am Kathrine Deedon, I currently live in Dayton, Ohio and I have been practicing as a Registered Nurse in step down units for the past 12 years. I have an 8 year daughter and a 3 year old dog. My daughter is my motivation in everything that I do and I strive to be better for her and of course for myself. I have begun this journey to challenge myself and to progress in my Nursing career. I am excited to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been at the bedside for 12 years and I have learned a lot. I believe that the wealth of knowledge and experience that I have gained from my practice definitely will help me to be the best Family Nurse Practitioner that I can be. I have a desire to help others in need and to provide a safe space for them. 

My professional and academic goals are in sync with Walden’s vision, mission, goals and social change initiatives. For example, I believe that diversity is essential in achieving my goals. We all bring something different to the table and I believe that bringing our different ideas and perspectives can bring positive change. I also strive to be a life-long learner and furthering my education is one way I can continue that journey. Walden university will help me achieve my professional goals by preparing me academically with the tools and knowledge I need to become the best Nurse Practitioner that I can be. 

My definition of success may differ from my classmates and colleagues but I think the foundation of success is similar across the board. I want to be able to graduate with my degree as well as pass boards so that I can ultimately practice as a family nurse practitioner once I graduate. Some of my examples of success include: learning something new from the class, passing the class and ultimately learning how I can use what is taught in my classes in my practice. Another example of success to me is when the lightbulb goes off in my head and I get the Eureka! moment. Also, success to me is for my daughter to see me graduate and receive my degree. 

I find that it is very important to network with other professionals in my field to be able to succeed because the field of nursing is always changing. As a healthcare professional, I believe that our ultimate goal should be to provide high-quality care to our patients. We cannot do this alone and we must work together. Specifically I think that it is important to network with other Nurse Practitioners, Physicians Assistants and Medical Doctors so that I can learn what they have gone through to get where they are at in their career. They have a wealth of knowledge that I find to be valuable and beneficial to my learning. Healthcare is fluid and books can only prepare so much. We need hands-on experience to be able to learn, grow, and succeed in the field of nursing and healthcare.

By networking, we can build the relationships we need with with other members of the healthcare team. The relationships that I form can ultimately help me with finding someone who is willing to teach me and take me under his or her wing during my practicum. I will be able to form rapport and trust between myself and other leaders in healthcare. Networking is essential in becoming the Family Nurse Practitioner that I strive to become. Humans by nature thrive on relationships and I think that networking will also help me along in my journey because I will also build friendships along the way. I know that I will benefit from networking and being able to bounce my ideas back and forth between my colleagues. I also believe that there is strength in numbers.

Networking Opportunities in Nursing 

My passion for the nursing profession started way back when I was only 10 years old. I would take care of my grandma, who was diabetic, by making sure that she took her diabetic medication in time, and always remind her to always monitor her blood sugar levels. I however started working as a registered nurse in 2005, in an acute healthcare setting. The lead nurse in this hospital portrayed all the leadership skills I hope to get someday. She was always compassionate, with good communication skills, and could find solutions to any problem despite the magnitude (Reynoso, Bueno, & Pavlic, 2017). She is the reason behind my inspiration for advancing my nursing education in attaining a master’s degree and become a nursing leader someday.   

Upon thorough consideration of available options, I found Walden University’s mission, vision, goals, and social changes to align appropriately with my desire in advancing my education so that I could become a nursing leader. The nursing profession is evolving and as a result, I need to acquire relevant knowledge and skills for sustainable positive social change. In line with my objective, the university mission, vision, and goals are aimed at promoting and facilitating collaborative alliances, through research and community engagement in providing a sustainable positive social change (Walden University, 2020).  

The main reason behind advancing my education and becoming a scholar-practitioner is to better my knowledge and experience in critical thinking and decision making to help in promoting service delivery to community members. Walden MSN Program Outcomes and perspectives are quite consistent with my professional and academic goals. For instance, the University is committed to empowering changemakers, building the community, and raising social change outcomes across the university (Walden University, 2020). These are exactly what I expect at the end of my training period.  

References 

Reynoso, D., Bueno, M., & Pavlic, D. (2017). Development of a Formalized Mentorship Program for Newly Licensed Registered Nurses at a Large Community Medical Center. https://repository.usfca.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1745&context=capstone 

Walden University. (2020). College of Nursing. Retrieved August 31, 2020, from https://www.waldenu.edu/about/colleges-schools/college-of-nursingTop of Form 

Hello Carmen, it is a pleasure to be able to meet you. I have always taken an interest in your field of nursing since in my RN program, due to my clinical experience. Mental health has been a popular topic that has been on the rise due to the many case within popular celebrities that come out to the light. Being from a Hispanic ethnicity, the older generation tend not to believe or feel that suffering from something like depression can be related to somebody suffering from the affects of hypertension. In my community, there have been plenty of outreach programs that help Hispanics with different mental health problems and have seen the benefits of these programs. It is awesome to meet someone who has so much drive and interest into this field of nursing. I personally feel mental health is an important topic when it comes to living a health life and it should be assessed to better help people cope with such disease such as depression, anxiety, and in the young population autism. The world needs more nurses committed to this diverse group of patients. I wish you the best of luck in this class and as well in your future classes.