Pursuing Graduation with Leadership Distinction in Community Service as a student in the College of Nursing here at the University of the South Carolina has challenged me to shine the light and support those who are disadvantaged. Throughout my entire college career here at USC, I have immersed myself in numerous avenues of getting involved and giving back to those who are less fortunate. These include but are not limited to Service Saturdays (The Leadership & Service Center), The Personal Touch Program (Palmetto Health Richland), Alternative Breaks (One World Health, Nicaragua), Birthrigh of Columbia. iaddition to limitless collaborations with SNA (Student Nurse’s Association), Men In Nursing, and Chi Eta Phi.

 

As a student, I have come to a few realizations that can be found under the Key Insights section of my e-portfolio. These realizations have shaped my growth as an individual and will guide me further into the future and throughtout my professional career:

• "Integrating Professions In Healthcare"

• "Amplifying Service With Advocacy"

• "It Takes More Than Communication To Communicate"

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Actor Denzel Washington once stated "At the end of the day it is not about what you have or even what you have accomplished. It is about who you have lifted up, who you have made better." It has always been my drive and passion to give back to the people of my community. Rather young or old, age is not a determining factor for those who are in need. The Leadership Section of my e-portfolio emphasizes my plan to close the gap between underpriveldged communites and college readiness. 

 

Being a nursing major at the university has given me the platform to better involve myself in the community. Every community, rather large or small, has people that can be reached with the love that nursing provides. It is a profession that allows you to see people at their worst, all while helping them become their best. Spending such a large amount of my time serving others has taught me the compassion and humility that I will need every single moment pursuing a career in nursing. It is a lesson that I will keep with me when those 12-hour shifts get tough! My passion for medicine is matched only by my love for people, so my decision to specialize as a nurse comes from the heart. Regarding my career plans, upon graduation, I plan to further my studies with a master's degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner and eventually a doctorate degree as a Doctor of Nursing Practice.