A Chicago Nurse Proves It's Never Too Late To Go Back To School
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nursing is one of the top occupations in terms of the largest job growth from 2008 to 2018. With growth in the field, more and more employers are valuing those with advanced degrees in nursing. Adrienne Schultz is the assistant vice president for Patient Care Services for Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Zion, Illinois and is a prime example of how continuing education can help advance a career.
With 18 years of experience in health care administration, Adrienne can offer insight on how her education has helped her achieve success in her career.
What inspired you to enter nursing?
"My mother became a nurse, and instilled in me the desire to help others just as she chose to do in her career, and her mother before that. I have always gravitated towards management positions in which I could give of myself to help others."
How has your education helped you achieve overall success in your field?
"So much of what we do is based on evidence-based practice; to be a better nurse requires the ability to research what has already been done, and to apply your learnings to your practical everyday life. Going back to school to achieve my M.S.N. with a nurse executive concentration taught me more about how to access and utilize the huge wealth of information that is now available to anyone on a computer. My education has given me the tools I need to succeed in today's fast-paced, Internet-friendly world."
What are some words of advice you can offer those looking to go into this field?
"It's never too late to further your education. I went back for my master's degree after many years of practice, and I have three small children at home; there is never a 'perfect' time to do it, but you just have to put your mind to it, and commit the time and energy. That life-long love of learning is what drove me to pursue my master's degree, as there is always more to learn and more ways to grow, both personally and professionally."
Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a bachelor's in communication and is currently working on her master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
