In this series, we are shining a light on nurses in Maryland who Lead Nursing Forward.
Meet Dr. Laura Schenk, DNP, RN, CNE, Nurse Support Program (NSP) II Grant Administrator.
In part two of this feature, Dr. Schenk shares about the most important lessons she learned as an educator, as well as her advice for aspiring nurse educators.
You can watch the video featuring photos and the voice of Dr. Schenk, or read the transcript below.
What is the most important thing you've learned in your career as an educator?
"One of the most important lessons I learned in my career as a nurse educator is to be
flexible and meet people where they are. It is important to remember that there is a
'human' behind every interaction.
You may not always know what struggles someone is going through. Being a source of support can make all the difference in helping someone to reach their goals.
Every interaction that I have with a student has also reminded me that I am always
learning, myself. Nurses are lifelong learners; this is a prerequisite for being
a good nurse and nurse educator.
You must be constantly striving to provide the highest quality in your practice."
What advice would you offer to those interested in becoming an educator?
"My advice for anyone that is interested in becoming a nurse educator is to make connections, network, and dream big!
I would not have succeeded in achieving my goals if it wasn’t for these three things. I am so grateful for the opportunities that I have had and the people that have inspired and helped me along the way.
My other piece of advice is to say 'yes' to new opportunities for growth, but at the same time, be selective and comfortable with using your 'no' voice when appropriate. Invest your time carefully and treat your mental energy as if it were a billion dollar real estate. Be selective and choose wisely what will take up space in your 'mental real estate'!
This also means that you need to make time for self care and what matters to you in your personal life. This is so important because it can be a positive driving force in your professional life."
Stay tuned for the next post in this series where Dr. Schenk shares about her vision for the future of NSP II.
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