Although nurses are surrounded by infected patients and risking their lives, this hasn’t changed the dreams of becoming a nurse for some high school students.
For senior Sierra Schneider, becoming a registered nurse has always been something she aspired to do.
“Becoming a nurse is a huge commitment but I wouldn’t want to do anything else,” Schneider said, “I’m excited to see what my future brings, and I’m not going to let COVID-19 ruin my dreams.”
Schneider will be attending Davenport University to receive a Bachelor’s degree in trauma nursing.
“There are people every single day I get to help, and if I can make one person happy and help them in anyway I can, that would make me feel complete,” Schneider said.
Even for senior Elley Owens her dream of being a labor and delivery nurse hasn’t changed during the worldwide pandemic.
“The job affects you so much in ways most people don’t think. You see so much in the field, sometimes it’s good things, and other times it’s the complete opposite,” Owens said, “The patients get up everyday knowing what will come, but they are still optimistic.”
At first Owens wanted to become a labor and delivery nurse because her passion lies within caring for babies. However, after having her own daughter, her reason quickly changed.
Now, she is choosing this field because her nurses helped her during a difficult time.
“I want to be able to be that person for other women and families,” Owens said. “Helping others means so much to me. It’s the greatest gift you can do for someone.”
Owens plans to work towards her Bachelor’s degree while working in the hospitals for tuition reimbursement.
Although Schneider and Owen’s perspectives haven’t budged from their positions in the medical field due to COVID-19, senior Courtney Provo’s has for the better.
“Although, COVID-19 has definitely made me view the job as a nurse differently because of the dangers of catching the virus considering you’re on the frontlines,” Provo said. “I work at the hospital right now and I wouldn’t think twice to stop working there. I love the adrenaline rush and supporting others through this rough patch in life.”
Provo plans on becoming a pediatric registered nurse through Michigan State University. She believes the medical field is a great fit because she’s very sympathetic and loves to help others. After attending the Kent Career Technical Center (KCTC), Provo knew that being a nurse was for her.
“To me, being able to help others means standing by their side and facing problems together,” Provo said.
