Networking Opportunities NURS-6003 Module 1: Discussion
Networking Opportunities
In this module, you begin laying the foundation for your academic and professional success. Your efforts begin with a vision that includes your own definition of success. Your vision may vary from those of your colleagues, but this does not mean you have to take these first steps alone.
Walden University and the College of Nursing also have a vision and mission, which include helping you to make your own vision a reality. Members of your new academic community, such as faculty, support teams, and fellow students, can also be helpful. Current practitioners and other member of the professional community can also help you to clarify your vision.
This Module’s Discussion asks you to consider how the Walden mission and vision as well as the College of Nursing’s mission and vision apply to your professional and academic goals. You will also begin to identify individuals and teams who can help you along the way as you begin designing the “blueprint”—your Academic Success and Professional Development Plan—that will guide you toward your own vision for academic and professional success. Finally, you will explain the importance of networking and how it can help you achieve your professional and academic goals.
Note
: Unless otherwise noted, initial postings to Discussions are due on or before Day 3, and response postings are due on or before Day 6. You are required to participate in the Discussion on at least three different days (a different day for main post and each response). It is important to adhere to the weekly time frame to allow others ample time to respond to your posting. In addition, you are expected to respond to questions directed toward your own initial posting in a timely manner.
Resources
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
To Prepare:
Review the Walden and College of Nursing mission and vision statements, Walden’s goals and University Outcomes, and the MSN and PMC Program Learning Outcomes presented in this Module’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 with whom you may collaborate in support of your efforts as a student at the university and as a professional within your organization and career.
Consider the importance of networking and how it may help you achieve your professional and academic goals.
By Day 3 of Week 1
Post
a brief introduction of yourself to your colleagues. Include an explanation as to how Walden’s vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives relate to your professional and academic goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner. Also include an explanation for how the Walden MSN Program Outcomes and perspectives relate to your professional and academic goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner. Finally, explain why networking is important and how it may help you achieve your professional and academic goals.
By Day 6 of Week 1
Respond
to at least
two
of your colleagues’ posts by suggesting additional individuals and/or teams with whom you wish to collaborate or by offering additional networking strategies.
Latrina Shonta Jurrell
Sep 1 10:52pm
| Last reply Sep 6 7:47pm
Reply from Latrina Shonta Jurrell
My name is Latrina Jurrell. Previously I worked as an analytical technician for 10 years. I have worked at Buckamn Laboratories, Cargill, Sherwin Williams, LMP, and Eurofins. I changed by career. I have been a Registered Nurse with 17 years of diverse experience. I have worked in critical care, pediatrics, oncology, and ambulatory settings. I am skilled in intensive care nursing, sedation and anesthesia recovery, infusion therapy, and patient navigation. I have worked in leadership as Charge Nurse and Patient Care Coordinator, with a strong record of fostering collaboration across multidisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes. I educate patients and families on complex treatment plans, guiding them through challenging diagnoses, and ensuring continuity and quality of care throughout the healthcare journey.
Walden University’s mission aligns closely with my professional goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner. I have seen firsthand how advanced practice providers can transform patient care through evidence-based practice and patient education. Walden’s emphasis on preparing scholar-practitioners resonates with my desire to deepen my clinical knowledge, engage in research-informed practice, and contribute to positive social change. By advancing my education at Walden, I will be equipped not only to provide high-quality, holistic care to diverse populations but also to advocate for health equity, mentor future nurses, and support initiatives that improve outcomes in underserved communities.
As I pursue my goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner, networking will be essential. Engaging with professional organizations such as oncology or critical care nursing associations will allow me to stay current with best practices and emerging research. I also plan to leverage my existing relationships with colleagues and mentors at institutions to gain insight into advanced practice roles and patient care innovations.
Networking will not only support my academic journey but also position me to advocate for patients, mentor other nurses, and contribute to positive social change within the healthcare system. By building and maintaining these professional relationships, I will be better prepared to transition into the Nurse Practitioner role and provide the highest quality of care to diverse patient populations.
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Bridget Wingate
Aug 29 3:45pm
| Last reply Aug 30 9:06pm
Reply from Bridget Wingate
Hi, my name is Bridget Wingate and I live in Ellijay, Georgia. I finally knew what I wanted to be when I grew up in my mid-30s, and I graduated at 39. This December will be my 10-year Registered Nursing anniversary and all 10 years have been in the aesthetic field. I specialize in treating patients with dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers, threads, sclerotherapy and various lasers at a facial plastics office in Atlanta. I also own and operate a boutique medspa in my little town where I provide aesthetic treatments to clients seeking natural, safe enhancements. Together, my husband and I have 6 children (3 still at home), 2 dogs (Harley and Willy), 30+ chickens and 5 turkeys (2 are babies and they are precious). Life is busy but blessed.
I chose Walden University because it aligns with my goals professionally and personally. The online platform allows me to juggle my life and school and family. Also, Walden’s desire to empower nurses as change agents through advanced knowledge and ethical practice reflects the goals I have set for myself; I want to expand my clinical scope, gain autonomy, and ensure regulatory protection for my business in the evolving legal landscape of medical aesthetics (Walden University, n.d.). Walden MSN Program Outcomes – applying evidence-based practices to enhance patient outcomes and leading systemic change collaboratively – reflect my academic and professional goals to grow from merely providing services to safeguarding patient safety while offering innovative care in aesthetics. As the American Nurses Association (ANA) explains, nurses must be prepared to meet “the rapidly shifting expectations of practice” with critical thinking and lifelong learning (ANA, 2021, p. 9). For me, that means gaining the credentials and evidence-based tools I need to stay current in both clinical excellence and state law compliance to protect my patients, my license, and my business.
Networking is beneficial in both clinical nursing and entrepreneurship. First of all, I find that the camaraderie of like-minded individuals, all juggling life with its ups and downs in pursuit of a common goal, creates a sense of family-like unity. Local networking will help me locate preceptor sites and networking with fellow medspa owners helps keep services offered fresh and updated (Schmidt, n.d). Lastly, I value networking with those that have legal industry insight because compliance is a top priority to protect my investment of time and money and to grow with confidence.
I aim to build not only a successful medspa, but one grounded in strong clinical ethics, safety, and professional autonomy. I believe partnering with Walden will help me achieve my goals. I look forward to this journey with all of my colleagues.
Warm Regards,
Bridget Wingate, RN
References
American Nurses Association. (2021).
The nursing scope and standards of practice
(4th ed.). ANA.
Schmidt, K. (n.d.).
5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networkingLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
Retrieved November 14, 2018, from https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/
Walden University. (n.d.).
Vision, mission, and goals.
https://www.waldenu.edu/about/who-we-are/mission-vision
Links to an external site.
IMG_0014.jpg
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Diana Lynn Nix
Aug 27 11:14pm
| Last reply Aug 30 9:36pm
Reply from Diana Lynn Nix
Initial Post
My name is Diana Nix RN, BSN, VA-BC. I am a vascular access RN with previous experience in Neuro Trauma ICU and ER. I have worked with all age groups across many demographics as a travel nurse. My professional and academic goals are to achieve a lifetime of learning, advancing my skills as I go, sharing my knowledge, providing the best care possible to my patients, and to have a great working relationship with the interdisciplinary teams I work with. Like Walden, I value my contributions to society and the impact I can have (Walden University, n.d.). I also strive for professional excellence through research projects and collaboration. I will always treat my patients with dignity and respect, and hope to make a difference in my community by providing culturally competent care and improving the health outcomes of those that need it the most. I want to make a difference by improving the care that patients receive by overcoming challenges in the hospital setting and creating positive changes. I will strive to always be ethical in my decisions and helping patients and their families come to informed and educated decisions about their care or the care of their loved one (Walen University, n.d.). I want to educate my patients and families on ways to contribute to their health and how to improve their diseases and outcomes by compliance with instructions and medications, and access to community resources when needed.
Networking as a practitioner is important. You have to have good working relationships with other practitioners and doctors, as well as other staff members. Taking care of patients is a team approach, often with different specialties and levels of expertise (Schmidt, K., n.d.). Networking also helps us to grow and change as we challenge ourselves personally and professionally. This is how we change specialties or start a new position. We also network when we join professional organizations to learn from the experts in our field and to stay up-to-date on best practices. Networking can also lead to positive changes through committees to improve practices, policies,and procedures. Networking will help me to better care for my patients by taking a collaborative approach to diagnostics and treatment. I can also learn and grow from the experts in my field with learning conferences and trainings.
References
Schmidt, K. (n.d.). 5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networkingLinks to an external site. [Blog post]. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/
Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalogLinks to an external site.. Retrieved Aug 27, 2025, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
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Ndidi Joan Egemonu
Aug 27 10:51pm
| Last reply Aug 30 2:18pm
Reply from Ndidi Joan Egemonu
My Goals and Walden University Vision and Mission Discussion DQ
Main DQ
Hello everyone, I am Ndidi Joan Egemonu, and I live in Jacksonville, Florida. As a nurse with many years of experience in different nursing specialties, a career that started in my home country, Nigeria, I still needed to give more. My academic goal has always been to achieve higher education and use the knowledge to impact lives, especially those from my community. As a community leader in the greater Nigerian community in Jacksonville, I have been fortunate to give talks to my community on multiple health topics. During this, I discovered two areas that most of the community does not like talking about: hospice and mental health. Many of the members are aware of the end-of-life journey and preparations, and the resources available to help them grieve positively, but occasionally remain in denial. The aspect that shocked me most was the level of denial about mental health despite its ravaging impact on the people. There are many reported cases of domestic abuse, spousal homicide, and much more. This was where I discovered the void that motivated me to advance my career in mental health. The knowledge I will acquire in this career will be used to impact people individually and collectively. I understand that a holistic approach to life must be employed to achieve stability. I started searching for a college with a similar Vision and Mission to acquire this knowledge. I shared my desire to get into a college willing to invest in me to help me achieve my goal, and my friend recommended Walden University.
I chose Walden University because its vision and mission align with mine, and its curriculum and academic program are rich, focusing on its depth, breadth, and stimulating learning environment. It offers an abundance of opportunities and a high-quality, comprehensive experience that goes beyond a standard curriculum. Walden’s PMHNP curriculum is exhaustive and robust, covering a wide range of subjects and topics in a thorough and well-organized manner, ensuring students receive a broad and deep education. Through Walden’s interdisciplinary approach that connects and integrates multiple fields of study, students can see the relationships between different subjects, which helps them to foster a more holistic understanding, a vision I hold dearly.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Outcome
Walden’s MSN program is skills- and outcomes-focused, preparing students to be broad communicators who apply critical thinking in real-world situations. Knowledge acquired at Walden is less discipline-specific but embraces the wider concerns of the humanities and social sciences”(Walden University,2025). It offers students more synergistic, integrated, and coherent paths to experimental and active learning, preparing them to become scholar-practitioners. MSN curriculum in Walden addresses significant and enduring questions and prepares students to think like historians, political scientists, psychologists, sociologists, literary critics, anthropologists, etc. (Walden University,2025). The scholar-practitioner prepared at Walden is a package with holistic knowledge to impact the world. This aligns with my vision to foster change through a holistic approach. The experiential and active learning in Walden offers the MSN students expanded opportunities for mentored research with both proactive academic and non-academic advising and support, and this fosters a sense of community, cohorting, and promotes belonging and connection, and helps build confidence in a scholar-practitioner.
My vision for social change
is to use the holistic knowledge acquired at Walden to correct the knowledge deficit in understanding the need to seek help instead of focusing on the stigma associated with mental health. I will achieve this by engaging people and educating them with every encounter.
Explain why networking is essential and how it may help you achieve your professional and academic goals.
There is a common saying that knowledge is power. No single person monopolizes knowledge; brainstorming, collaborative interactions, and mentorships are ways to learn and improve ourselves. This cannot be achieved without networking. Walden University’s mission and vision cover this aspect and make the faculty, academic, and non-academic staff available to the students for networking. This includes the library resources, the technical support, the enrollment, and the financial officers. There are alum associations, professional groups, and some social media platforms one can join and learn from. Networking is crucial and will help me achieve my professional and academic goals by giving me access to job opportunities, receiving mentorship and support from peers, staying informed about new advancements and best practices, and fostering collaboration to improve patient care. It will provide a vital support system for me when facing challenges and burnout, helping the broader profession evolve through shared knowledge and advocacy for better healthcare policies and environments.
Walden University. (2025).
College of Nursing: Mission
. Walden University Catalog and Handbook.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/catalog/nursing
Walden University. (2025).
Vision and Goals.
Walden University Student Handbook.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals#s-lg-box-30140618Links to an external site.
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2025b).
Academics: College of nursing: Master of science in nursing (MSN)
. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – College of Nursing – Academics at Walden University.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/catalog/nursing/master-science/nursing#s-lg-box-29662482
Links to an external site.
Wofford, P. (2018).
10 networking tips for nurses who hate networking
. Nurse.org. Retrieved from
https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/Links to an external site.
Links to an external site.
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Crystal Prado
Aug 27 9:33pm
| Last reply Aug 30 10:16pm
Reply from Crystal Prado
Hello everyone, my name is Crystal Prado, and I’m based in Miami, Florida. I’ve dedicated the last 17 years to growing my career in healthcare, starting as a CNA, then becoming an LPN, and eventually an RN. I’m currently working toward my MSN at Walden University with the goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner. I’ve had the opportunity to work in several clinical areas, including MedSurg, Telemetry, Stepdown, ER, and Surgery. Emergency medicine, however, has always been my true calling, and I plan to specialize as a Trauma Nurse Practitioner after completing my degree.
What drew me to Walden University is its strong focus on addressing real-world challenges through education. The university’s commitment to creating positive social change and supporting learners from all backgrounds aligns with the kind of nurse I strive to be (Walden University, n.d.). In emergency settings, I often see how social and economic issues affect patient care, and I believe that with the right education and tools, I can make a meaningful impact.
Walden encourages its students to think critically and act with purpose. This focus on reflection, inquiry, and community improvement supports my goal to become more than just a skilled clinician; I want to be a leader who advocates for improved healthcare access and better outcomes, especially for underserved populations (Walden University, n.d.).
The MSN program is designed to build advanced clinical knowledge, leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of evidence-based practice, all of which are essential for my future role as a trauma nurse practitioner. The program outcomes also emphasize collaboration, ethical decision-making, and system-level thinking, which will prepare me to not only care for patients at the bedside but also contribute to broader healthcare initiatives (Walden University, n.d.).
Professional networking is something I’ve learned to value more as I advance in my career. Forming connections with other nurses, faculty members, and healthcare leaders provides opportunities for mentorship, support, and collaboration. According to Schmidt (n.d.), networking can help nurses stay current, grow professionally, and open doors to new roles. Even for those who may feel shy or unsure about networking, there are ways to approach it that feel genuine and comfortable, such as participating in professional organizations or engaging in online communities (Wofford, 2018).
By building a strong network, I hope to gain insights from others in the field, share my own experiences, and grow both personally and professionally.
References:
Schmidt, K. (n.d.).
5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking
[Blog post]. BluePipes. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/
Walden University. (n.d.).
Walden University catalog
. Retrieved October 4, 2019, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
Wofford, P. (2018).
10 networking tips for nurses who hate networking
. Nurse.org. Retrieved from https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/
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Abimbola Adegborioye
Aug 27 8:14pm
| Last reply Aug 30 6:01pm
Reply from Abimbola Adegborioye
Introduction and How School Mission Aligns with Being a Psych NP
Introduction
Hello, class. My name is Abimbola (Abi) Adegborioye. I live in Plantation, Florida, and I am originally from Nigeria, West Africa. I am a wife and mother of three beautiful children: 22 years old, 19 years old, and 18 years old—two boys, and the last, a girl. Currently, I work as a Board Certified family Nurse Practitioner in a skilled nursing facility that specializes in geriatric nursing in South Florida. My focus is on Pulmonology and pain management.
The issue of mental health care has become one of the most urgent problems in the modern healthcare system, and particularly among vulnerable and underserved groups of people. As a student in Walden University’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program,’ I aim to integrate evidence-based practice with compassion to ensure more individuals get access to care. This discussion describes how the mission and vision of Walden, the MSN initiative or program outcomes, and networking with others can help me as a scholar-practitioner to realize my academic and professional aspirations (goals) and ambitions.
‘
How the Walden Mission, Vision, Goals, and Social Change Initiatives Match with My Goals
’
The ‘mission and vision at Walden University’ are compliant with my professional and academic intentions and plans of becoming a ‘Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.’ Walden aims to build a diverse learning community that tackles the issues faced by society and also create outstanding social changes (Walden University, n.d.). Such devotion is aligned with my objective of broadening psychiatric services to underserved groups of the population, including homeless veterans and rural adolescents with untreated depression. Through an emphasis on quality, integrity, and student-centeredness, Walden can enable me to apply knowledge to the creation of transformational changes in the outcomes of mental illnesses.
How My Goals Align and Relate to MSN Initiative or Program Results
The ‘outcomes of the MSN’ initiative or program available at Walden will also help me in the professional practice as a Psych NP. The program is geared toward evidence-based practice, advancing equity in health, and life-long education (Walden University, 2025). The findings also match my interest in implementing trauma-informed CBT therapy in community clinics and the use of telepsychiatry to attend to adolescents in remote settings with a lack of accessibility. The focus on reflective practice will enhance my abilities to become a qualified and ethical scholar-practitioner capable of doing innovative and advocacy work within the mental health environment across various contexts.
The Value of Networking to Meet Academic and Professional Goals
Networking will be fundamental in achieving my academic and professional goals as a Psych NP. Interactions and networking with faculty, peers, and interdisciplinary health teams will help establish cooperation and mentoring and facilitate engagement and the exchange of knowledge (Hamlin, 2024). Networking will open career opportunities, professional references, and tips to help me develop a long-term practice. Networking is a crucial aspect and competency emphasized by professional organizations, such as the ‘American Association of Nurse Practitioners,’ as a method of becoming a leader, advocate, and expanding the NP association to the healthcare system (Fernandez, 2022). These affiliations will foster or promote my growth and advancement as a student and professional practitioner. Networking Opportunities NURS-6003 Module 1: Discussion
Conclusion
Finally, the mission and social change efforts at Walden, the program outcomes of the MSN program, and the different networking opportunities all fit my academic and career pursuits as a future ‘Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.’ All materials (resources) and strategies (plans or approaches) will enhance mental health care and lead to my personal or individual accomplishment. As a scholar-practitioner, I will be able to transform individuals’ lives and make mental services accessible to them, and become part of Walden’s dream as an assurance to deliver and achieve desirable social changes.
References
Fernandez, A. (2022, June 16).
The benefits of networking for nurse practitioners.
American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Retrieved August 27, 2025, from
https://www.aanp.org/news-feed/the-benefits-of-networking-for-nurse-practitioners
Links to an external site.
Hamlin, K. (2024).
Professional networking in nursing.
NurseJournal.
https://nursejournal.org/resources/networking-in-nursing/
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2025).
Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree | Walden University.
Waldenu.edu.
https://www.waldenu.edu/online-masters-programs/master-of-science-in-nursing
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.).
Academics: Student handbook: Vision, Mission, and goals.
Retrieved August 27, 2025, from Waldenu.edu.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals
Links to an external site.
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William Statum
Aug 27 7:14pm
| Last reply Aug 30 1:58pm
Reply from William Statum
Hi Classmates!
My name is William David Statum; my father and I have the same first name, so people call me David. I am a proud dog dad to Baby Bella, a beautiful Chihuahua; she is sleeping in my lap while I write this post. I live in southern Middle Tennessee. Nursing school was a midlife career change for me. I have been a nurse for 13 years. I have spent the majority of my nursing career focusing on substance abuse and addictions, food insecurity, and hunger. I worked with local drug treatment court programs, and my family and I started a food bank in my rural community; the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed things quickly. We began by helping a few families, and literally overnight, we have been serving more than 1,500 families each week for the past seven years. I have learned that all things derive from relationships, so I spend a considerable amount of time establishing them. With this networking model, I can obtain the resources I need to help people. In all things that I do, whether through faith or profession, communication has been a driving force, and I am excited to begin this post-MSN PMHNP certification, where I can grow into my calling.
Walden’s vision of a community that values knowledge and professional competencies is important to me. We all have things to offer, and when we build an inclusive, knowledge-based environment, we can learn from one another. Not so much as touting our own accomplishments, but, instead, using that knowledge from those accomplishments to bring change where change is needed, growth where it is required, and inclusion to learn and resources to solve critical societal challenges where greater global goodness is necessary.
Walden’s goals to adhere to that vision provide a safe, academic environment that demonstrates tangible learner-centered, process-centered approaches toward achieving academic excellence. It feels good to be learning in an environment that appreciates my educational and professional background and uses it as a catalyst to help me reach my goals. I enjoy learning and growing, so this learning model resonates with me. I looked at several similar programs, but most of them are test-based courses; I learn better by discovery, research, and critical thinking than by learning only to pass one exam per course. I get so nervous in those other environments that it hinders my progress toward achieving my learning goals and helping build positive social change.
A significant portion of my daily activities involves promoting a safe environment to foster social change. Our feeding program operates efficiently each day, so we have deliberately based all conversations on whether they add value to the mission of the food bank. That concept is not original with me. Dolly Parton is quite a positive force in Tennessee. I actually met her once at Walmart. In an interview, when promoting an album in England, the interviewer told her that one of their princesses invited her to tea. Ms. Parton’s response was in the form of a question. Is the princess helping her promote her album? Since the answer was no, she suggested that perhaps they could get together at another time. She was trying to effect social change within her own immediate environment, respecting the time and talents of those who were helping her achieve her goals while there.
Walden’s initiatives to support positive social change through the development of principled, knowledgeable, and ethical scholar-practitioners have had a profound impact on me, as this word-mapping has already influenced how I lead, set goals, and contribute to making society better (Walden, 2025).
Walden’s MSN Program Outcomes, emphasizing evidence-based practice, leadership, advocacy for health equity, and social change, directly align with my goal of becoming a scholar-practitioner by providing a framework to synthesize theory and practice (2025). I anticipate that this emphasis toward scholarship and practice, supported by confidence gained from completing this program, will assist me in efforts to analyze health data, promote quality improvement, advocate for vulnerable populations, and lead change in diverse healthcare settings, ultimately advancing your professional and academic goals while contributing to societal well-being. This confidence will help me establish new networking relationships to advance my career with greater ease and less anxiety. (Savard, et. al., 2023) Networking with like-minded healthcare professionals could become a catalyst to begin nurturing relationships that offer access to hidden job opportunities, opportunities to find mentors and career guidance, emotional support, and a strong peer network to prevent burnout, increased knowledge about different specialties and new developments, and the chance to influence the healthcare system by advocating for change. Honestly, networking has been challenging for me, probably because I lack confidence sometimes. Knowledge and nursing skills foster professional confidence, so I am excitedly looking forward to shifting my mindset to that of a scholar-practitioner, which will enable me to reframe my understanding of networking and ultimately reach my goals of building a successful practice, helping my community, and developing relationships to offer significant and tangible assistance for those in need.
References:
Savard, I., Al Hakim, G., & Kilpatrick, K. (2023). The added value of the nurse practitioner: An evolutionary concept analysis.
Nursing open
,
10
(4), 2540–2551. https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.1512
Walden University. (2025). Academics: Student handbook: Vision and goals. Vision and Goals – Student Handbook – Academics at Walden University. https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals#:~:text=Walden%20University%20strives%20to%20produce,a%20commitment%20to%20lifelong%20learning.
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Thais Banos Silverio
Aug 27 5:27pm
| Last reply Aug 30 4:09am
Reply from Thais Banos Silverio
Main Post
My name is Thais Banos Silverio. I have been a registered nurse for more than five years, working in different departments. In recent times, I have worked in the emergency and critical care units providing healthcare services to the most vulnerable patient population. In my experience, I have recognized the value of nurses, especially in the management of high-stress situations and the ability to make informed, critical, and relevant decisions that can improve patient outcomes. As an individual who has worked in the emergency unit, I have also contributed to supporting both the patients and the family members through quality communication and interpersonal relationship skills. I am pursuing my education to continue improving my academic goals, championing diversity, collaboration, and strengthening my commitment to realizing opportunities for personal growth and professional development. My focus is on the best ways by which I can contribute to the general health and well-being of every member of society, especially those with mental health complications living in underserved communities.
Walden University operates on a vision, mission, and value statement that prioritize social change. Through this institution, it is easier to align my goals and academic restoration with its agenda because of the flexibility of the learning environment, allowing for continuous education and maintenance of my responsibilities as a nursing professional (Walden University, n.d.). My desire to join Walden University was also because of their ability to interact with scholars and other professionals who are dedicated to positive change and lifelong learning. The focus of this University is to ensure that healthcare personnel are capable of advancing the delivery of competent services across different life stages while also serving the interests of the community (Walden University, n.d.). In the capacity of a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am confident that I will be capable of contributing to the expansion of access to mental health care services, addressing issues of stigma, isolation, and discrimination through compassionate and evidence-based solutions.
The MSN program at Walden University is supportive of my development as a nurse leader. Through the course instructions, I will be part of the population that contributes to critical thinking, applying research, and making ethical decisions. I am confident that through these outcomes, it will be easier to align my operations and desires with an integrated approach to evidence-based art interventions and quality solutions targeting mental health care while enhancing the nature of outcomes for the community and clinical settings (Walden University, n.d.). Walden University also provides an opportunity to network with other students, the faculty, and academic advisors. These will be critical players in my journey as I build connections, access mentorship, academic support, and opportunities for professional collaboration.
References
Walden University. (n.d.).
Walden University catalog links to an external site
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved from
https://catalog.waldenu.edu
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.).
Walden University catalog links to an external site
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved from
https://catalog.waldenu.edu
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.).
The writing center links to an external site
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved from
https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter
Links to an external site.
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Amanda Michelle Perez
Aug 27 4:56pm
| Last reply Aug 30 2:26pm
Reply from Amanda Michelle Perez
Hi everyone, my name is Amanda. I’m from Miami, Florida and have been working as an RN in the ER of a level one trauma facility for 3 years. Prior to becoming an RN, I was working as a medical assistant and office manager for a urgent care company down here in South Florida. Working in these urgent and emergent environments has trained my brain and body to always be ready and unfortunately for my family and friends, I never stop moving even when I’m off the clock. With this experience, I’ve been exposed to many different types of patient populations and disease processes at every stage of its progression.
As an RN pursuing an advanced degree, my idea of success is waking up each morning, healthy, feeling content with the choices I have made that led me to where I am. I don’t believe success can be measured, but can be the impact you leave on others, making sure it’s better than the way you found them.
I felt that continuing my education to become an FNP was my way of contributing back to my community with all the experiences and lessons I’ve learned whilst working in such a harsh environment. Coming from an immigrant family with a long line of nurses and nurse practitioners I not only felt it was my duty to continue on but I have this sense of passion and pride being given the opportunity to follow in my family’s footsteps. When it came to choosing a program to attend, Walden’s vision and one of their goals made it an easy and obvious choice. With a vision surrounded by creating an environment that values knowledge and professionalism to drive for a greater societal change (Walden University, 2025). Walden’s College of Nursing furthers the university’s vision by emphasizing their dedication to a diverse nursing population. This encapsulates my goals as a future FNP in one short sweet sentence. Being exposed to many patients who are unable to properly manage their care, my goals for future self are to be easily accessible to more patient populations.
When it comes to networking, in my personal opinion I feel that healthcare is a bit overlooked. Throughout my career, I joined the Emergency Nurses Association and was able to make friends and meet colleagues in my area with the same life and career interests. Because nursing is constantly evolving, maintaining professional relationships is especially important when your wish is to keep your knowledge fresh and relevant (Schmidt, n.d).
Schmidt, K. (n.d).
5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking.
5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking
Links to an external site.
Links to an external site.
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2025).
Academics: Student Handbook: About Walden
. Student Catalog, Student Handbook, and University Guidebooks – Student Catalog, Handbook, and University Guidebooks – Academics at Walden University. Retrieved August 27, 2025, from
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/about-walden
Links to an external site.
Links to an external site.
Links to an external site.
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Zenia Alvarez
Aug 27 2:37pm
| Last reply Aug 29 9:25pm
Reply from Zenia Alvarez
Module 1 Discussion
My Professional Goals and Walden University’s Vision
Hello everyone! My name is Zenia, I graduated in 2013 as a Pharmacy Technician and worked in that field until 2020 before pursuing nursing, completing my degree in 2020, and gaining experience as a school nurse and in COVID testing. In 2023, I began working for Florida Blue as a Navigator Nurse, collaborating with a Community Specialist to help members and the community better understand and act on their health and basic needs. Most recently, I completed my FNP in June 2025, where I have recognized the growing need for mental health support in the community. In my pursuit of a career in nursing, I should select a college that drives excellence, equity, and social change. The mission and the vision of Walden University fit into my professional and academic goals since they will contribute to the creation of evidence-based practice, nursing leadership, and innovativeness. In this discussion, I outline how the philosophy of Walden and the results of my MSN program will enable me to develop as a scholar-practitioner and how networking can facilitate my long-term success.
The mission and vision of Walden University rest on setting up a multi-ethnic body of scholar-practitioners at the University, and in pursuing life-long learning and social change (Walden University, 2025). This complements my aspirations of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) that lowers the disparities, which occur in relation to access to mental health care. The university also reflects my vision of social change, as I personally want to change the way in which poorly served groups can be helped in regard to mental health outcomes. The education that can facilitate the interaction of theory, research, and advocacy can help bring the much-needed change in the professional service as an academic.
The mission statement of the College of Nursing contains the description of the necessity of having education in nursing that is empirically relevant and academically demanding (Walden University, 2025). This will help me attain my objective of achieving cultural competence in practice, which must be achieved when dealing with patients of diverse backgrounds. It is established that culturally competent nursing mitigates disparities and enhances patient-provider interactions (Kamimura et al., 2020). As Walden offers a program design with the inclusion of contextual learning, I am certain that I will be able to develop the appropriate set of skills that would allow me to address the mental health needs of diverse populations and serve as a leader within a specific practice in the realm of psychiatric nursing.
My MSN program outcomes also match my academic and career plans. Particularly, the program targets the area of evidence-based practice execution and integration of the scientific evidence in the patient care process (Walden University, 2025). In psychiatry, a critical importance is placed on evidence-based care, given that the decision regarding the treatment process must be safer and effective, based on clinical principles and evidence (Varcarolis & Fosbre, 2020). Upon learning these outcomes, I will be in a position to administer high-quality and equitable care and meet my dream of facilitating mental wellness in populations.
Another of the program outcomes that can be directly associated with my professional development is the area of systems leadership and policy advocacy. Graduate-prepared nurses are expected to transform the healthcare systems and effect changes in policies that are aimed at improving patient outcomes (AlMekkawi & El Khalil, 2020). This is of utmost importance in psychiatric nursing, as the barrier to care that comes with stigma and structural disadvantage of the population with mental disorders is an obstacle to accessing care. I will use this training to influence the government in implementing policies that will make psychiatric services readily available in both urban and rural regions.
The importance of networking is also necessary both at the professional and academic levels. Investigations show that with professional networking, one can find mentorship, career growth, and assured partnering deals to enhance practice in their areas of medical care (Wani, 2024). Through networking, we are in a position to share the knowledge and support each other; these are two aspects that are critical in addressing the complex needs of patients. By developing their connections with both faculty members and other clinicians, and professional organizations, I will further position myself in the profession to be a clinician who can contribute more value to the community.
In conclusion, the MSN program outcomes of Walden University are well aligned with my personal and professional goals. The emphasis that they have on social change, evidence-based training, and culturally competent training assists me in growing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Networking and collaboration will go hand in hand to enable me to advance as a scholar-practitioner who will achieve better outcomes of mental health within diverse populations.
References
AlMekkawi, M., & El Khalil, R. (2020). New graduate nurses’ readiness to practise: a narrative literature review.
Health Professions Education
,
6
(3), 304-316.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hpe.2020.05.008
Links to an external site.
Kamimura, A., Higham, R., Rathi, N., Panahi, S., Lee, E., & Ashby, J. (2020). Patient–provider relationships among vulnerable patients: the association with health literacy, continuity of care, and self-rated health.
Journal of patient experience
,
7
(6), 1450-1457.
https://doi.org/10.1177/2374373519895680
Links to an external site.
Varcarolis, E. M., & Fosbre, C. D. (2020).
Essentials of psychiatric mental health nursing-E-book: A communication approach to evidence-based care
. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Walden University. (2025).
Academics: Student Handbook: About Walden
. Student Catalog, Student Handbook, and University Guidebooks – Student Catalog, Handbook, and University Guidebooks – Academics at Walden University. Retrieved August 27, 2025, from
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/about-walden
Links to an external site.
Wani, P. (2024). Connecting for success: the role of networking in medical education.
Cureus
,
16
(11). DOI: 10.7759/cureus 74643
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Marien Joanna Bomwell
Aug 27 2:18pm
| Last reply Aug 31 8:27am
Reply from Marien Joanna Bomwell
Hello everyone,
My name is Marien Bomwell, and I am excited to start the Nurse Practitioner program here at Walden. I have been a Registered Nurse for 4 years in the Emergency department. Before becoming a nurse, I worked in the ER for 6 years as an ER tech, and I loved the fast-paced environment, adrenaline, and excitement. Having that prior experience and the exposure to unpredictable situations and patients with a variety of medical needs motivated me to start my nursing career. I wanted to expand my skills and clinical knowledge, and help others through those demanding situations, which gave me a solid sense of purpose.
My goal now is to continue learning and broaden my professional nursing knowledge. In my opinion, becoming a Nurse Practitioner will strengthen my relationship with patients and have a considerable impact on the overall health of a diverse range of patients. For this reason, I picked Walden University. Its vision aligns with my professional goals, as it will enable me to manage the challenge of continuing to work with its adaptable learning alternatives. Walden’s mission will help me prepare with evidence-based practice to stand for the communities in need. Additionally, Walden’s social change initiatives to promote the worth and dignity of communities will guide me in managing health inequalities and supporting vulnerable populations (Walden University, 2025a).
At Walden, the MSN Program Outcomes and perspectives align with my professional and academic goals by helping me enhance my leadership skills and contribute to delivering better nursing care within society. The program outcomes will also enable me to communicate more efficiently in various ways when diagnosing, implementing a plan of care, and preventing illnesses for different populations (Walden University, 2025b).
In relation to networking while in Nurse Practitioner school, it is essential because it will enable me to exchange knowledge with others and provide a support system that motivates me and helps reduce my stress levels, thereby enhancing my performance. Professionally, networking will help me find the right mentor who can share their perspectives on what to do and what not to do for career growth, as well as establish the necessary connections for job opportunities (Schmidt, n.d). Networking Opportunities NURS-6003 Module 1: Discussion
References
Schmidt, K. (n.d).
5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking.
5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2025a).
Vision and Goals
.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2025b).
Learning Outcomes.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/catalog/nursing/master-science/nursing#s-lg-box-29662482
Links to an external site.
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Nerlande Bellevue
Aug 27 1:40pm
| Last reply Aug 30 6:03pm
Reply from Nerlande Bellevue
Hello everyone,
My name is Nerlande, and I currently reside in Broward County, Florida. I have been working as a nurse for the past five years. In this period, I have acquired a strong passion for contributing to advancing positive health outcomes for my patients and the communities I serve. This course gives me an opportunity to advance my academic journey here at Walden and grow alongside each of you.
My goals as a nurse are in tandem with Walden’s mission and vision, which emphasize academic excellence, promoting social change, and the need for evidence-based practice. This aligns well with long-term commitment to providing patient-centered care (Walden University, n.d.). Walden’s vision serves as a guiding force in helping me become a scholar-practitioner who applies clinical expertise and, at the same time, advocates for equity, quality, and innovation in healthcare. In addition, the College of Nursing’s mission to prepare nurses for leadership and transformative practice will significantly help in expanding my influence beyond bedside care. This will go a long way to ensuring health promotion and patient education in my line of duty.
Consequently, the MSN program outcomes support my professional and academic development. With their heavy focus on leadership, collaboration, decision-making, and evidence-based practice, the outcomes serve as an integral path to my growth as I transition into advanced practice roles. Besides, I regard them as benchmarks for the knowledge and skills I am looking forward to acquiring. In the long run, they will be critical in strengthening my clinical competencies and help me contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession and the communities I serve.
Eventually, networking is truly a vital part of academic and professional success. As such, I believe that it is important to build and enhance relationships with faculty, peers, and other healthcare professionals. Such relationships are crucial in collaboration, mentorship, and the exchange of diverse perspectives (Wofford, 2018). Hence, as I navigate this program, these connections will be vital in engaging and expanding my professional opportunities in advanced practice nursing.
References
Walden University. (n.d.).
Walden University catalogLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved October 4, 2019, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
Wofford, P. (2018).
10 networking tips for nurses who hate networkingLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved from https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/
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Kenneth Ejiofor Oruka
Aug 27 12:36am
| Last reply Aug 30 9:51pm
Reply from Kenneth Ejiofor Oruka
Hello everyone, my name is
Kenneth Ejiofor Oruka
(But you may simply call me Ken). I was born and raised in a one-room shack in the suburb of Enugu State, Nigeria. It was never easy for my parents, especially my mother, who was determined to see us succeed even as she had nothing to support six of us. She struggled and got severely depressed when I was still in elementary two. All hopes seemed to have vanished for all of us, but from that a young age, I knew I was different. I braced up the challenge, engaged in different childhood labor and petty trading. When other kids were playing, I would be thinking of what the next day would look like. I never watched any Television until adulthood, no childhood memories, and no friends. When others played, I studied borrowed textbooks under kerosene lamps, sketching every letter and words as if they were a map out of my poverty. I faced every post study assessment question with desperations and starvation of someone who hoped on knowledge as my only inheritance.
Why did I choose Nursing as a Profession?
I didn’t pursue nursing because it was simple—I chose it because it mattered. Of the many things that my mother laid her hands as a means of surviving, being an untrained/uneducated ‘home birth attendant’ was the one that earned her the most respect, as she was often referred to as ‘home nurse’. Hence, I believed that I could continue building on my mothers’ legacies by obtaining a degree in nursing. Interestingly, I simplified nursing as what my mother was doing and expected it to be a cheaper alternative to the other courses since I would be training myself.
Moreover, I viewed nursing as profession that is far beyond technical expertise. To me, it’s about truly hearing people when the world is too rushed to listen. It’s about being present—physically, emotionally, and ethically—when someone is at their most fragile. It’s about earning the profound trust to care for life itself; all of which my mother was known for in the community. Because of this, I was determined to enjoy the discipline of the training, the breadth of opportunities, and the universal importance of the role. It was my honest desire to help uphold that foundation—not just to treat disease, but to foster health, justice, and empathy. I chose a life of service, science, and strength that will build on my mothers’ effort and also make me different.
Across Nations: The Journey of an African Nurse
I am pleased to state that beyond all odds, I made it as a nurse—shaped by the pulse of Africa, where resilience isn’t optional, it’s instinctive. My training was forged in crowded wards and under constrained conditions, where care meant creativity and compassion meant everything. I have stood beside pain that had no diagnosis, relied on intuition honed by necessity, and spoken up even when my voice was dismissed. I’ve led quietly, persistently, even when the spotlight pointed elsewhere.
But my identity isn’t confined by geography. I realized that am not only an African nurse, but a nurse with a global calling. Having conquered hunger locally and escaped generational poverty, I knew that it was time for me to seek international recognition, not for praise, but for parity. I wanted my expertise to be acknowledged, my credentials to carry weight, and my insights to shape conversations beyond borders. I envision collaboration across nations, contributing to health systems worldwide, and bringing the depth of my experience to global platforms. This is a journey that I am committed to accomplishing.
Connecting Vision to Impact: How My Aspirations Reflect Walden’s Mission
Walden University’s commitment to empowering a diverse network of professionals to drive meaningful social change (Walden University, n.d) strongly aligns with my personal and professional path. Specifically, the University “envisions a premier, inclusive online learning community where knowledge and professional competencies are valued for their contributions to solving critical societal challenges and advancing the greater global good”. As a nurse trained in Africa, I’ve directly encountered the inequities in healthcare—limited access, under-recognition, and resource gaps. My mission extends beyond delivering compassionate, evidence-based care; I strive to champion equity and amplify the global presence of African-trained nurses.
The university’s dedication to cultivating scholar-practitioners who lead through service and innovation mirrors my academic aspirations. I’m eager to advance my nursing education, engage in impactful research, and guide others through mentorship. I view my role not only as a clinician, but as a catalyst—someone who leverages knowledge to dismantle systemic obstacles and empower communities.
Aligning The Walden University
College of Nursing Mission with My Aspirations
The College of Nursing’s dedication to providing education that is both academically rigorous and culturally attuned resonates with my aspiration for a learning space that respects my heritage and equips me for global impact. I’m drawn to Walden’s flexible, practitioner-driven approach, which empowers me to blend hands-on experience with scholarly advancement.
Their focus on social transformation and leadership cultivation aligns seamlessly with my vision of launching international health collaborations as a means of ‘take-it-back-home’ effort and driving policy changes that elevate African-trained nurses within the global healthcare landscape.
Becoming a Scholar-Practitioner: My Journey Toward Global Relevance
Embracing the scholar-practitioner path at Walden empowers me not only to learn but to lead in knowledge creation. My goal is to advance research that showcases the ingenuity and resilience of African healthcare systems, while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to address urgent global health issues. Guided by Walden’s mission and vision, I pursue this work with integrity, intellectual rigor, and a deep sense of purpose.
Aligning Walden’s MSN Outcomes with My Vision as a Nurse
As a nurse committed to achieving global recognition, building on my mother’s unnoticed effort, and effecting meaningful change, I view the Walden MSN program not merely as a pathway to a degree, but as a transformative framework aligned with my professional aspirations. The program’s core competencies—advanced clinical practice, leadership development, evidence-based inquiry, policy engagement, and patient-centered care (Walden University, n.d.)—are directly supportive of my long-term goals. Ultimately, Walden prepares me not only to excel professionally, but to serve with purpose, lead with vision, and contribute to a legacy of equity and transformation in global health.
Professional Networking as Steppingstone to Realizing My Academic Goals
In today’s competitive personal, professional, and organizational landscapes, professional networking has emerged as a vital tool for individual success (Faizan, 2025). According to Akkas (2023), Scholars have also identified a range of variables, including networking, that significantly influence an individual’s career success. Networking goes beyond swapping business cards or adding LinkedIn contacts—it’s about forging meaningful connections that help propel you toward your aspirations, particularly in a profession as evolving and people-focused as nursing. Schmidt (n.d.) noted that Nurses occupy a vital and increasingly multifaceted role in patient care, contributing significantly to nearly every operational aspect of healthcare organizations. Their expertise positions them to influence the design and execution of institutional processes and protocols. When nurses are empowered to lead in these areas, the resulting improvements enhance both the organizational environment and overall system performance.
Schmidt (n.d.) further notes that professional networking encompasses structured interactions and affiliations that arise within occupational or career-related contexts. Fundamentally, professional networking serves as a conduit through which individual expertise evolves into broader impact. It enables the transition from practicing as a competent nurse within a localized setting to becoming a globally recognized leader contributing to the advancement of healthcare across international boundaries.
Sources of Professional and Social Networking
To cultivate meaningful connections and advance professional development, Walden University (n.d.) recommended that individuals may engage with a diverse array of networking channels, including:
Institutional and Educational Affiliations
University alumni networks (e.g., Walden University Alumni Association)
Student-led organizations and campus groups
Faculty, staff, and peers within academic institutions
Classroom-based interactions and cohort relationships
Professional and Civic Engagement
Industry-specific associations and credentialing bodies
Conference, seminar, and workshop participants
Volunteer and service-based organizations
Former colleagues and workplace contacts
Political and advocacy groups
Personal and Community-Based Networks
Friends and extended family members
Neighborhood and local community connections
Social clubs, hobby groups, and fitness communities
Faith-based institutions and religious communities
Military affiliations and veteran networks
Service professionals (e.g., legal, medical, financial, real estate, travel, veterinary)
Parent-related networks (e.g., PTA, youth sports, scouting organizations)
Digital and Online Platforms
Social media platforms such as Facebook (including university-specific groups), Instagram, Twitter
Professional networking sites like LinkedIn
Interest-based platforms including Meetup.com and Ted.com
Academic and research collaboration networks
Why Networking Matters
The motivations for nurse practitioners to cultivate professional networks are diverse and continually evolving. According to Goolsby and Knestrick (2017), engaging in networking fosters connections that facilitate access to emerging opportunities, enhance personal and professional growth, support collaborative research initiatives, promote involvement in health policy advocacy, and strengthen the implementation of evidence-based practices.
How Networking Would S
upports My Aspirations
Advancing Academically:
Building relationships with faculty, alumni, and peers at institutions like Walden opens doors to joint research, collaborative projects, and mentorship that deepen your development as a scholar-practitioner.
Growing Professionally:
Active participation in nursing organizations, conferences, and online communities keeps you informed, strengthens your professional identity, and prepares you for leadership opportunities.
Achieving Global Impact:
Engaging with international colleagues and institutions enables you to champion policy change, contribute to global health efforts, and ensure your insights shape conversations beyond borders.
References
Akkas, M. (2023).
Role of networking skill to career success
.
https://doi.org/10.57240/DUJMBK02
Links to an external site.
Faizan, R. (2025). The Importance of Professional Networking: A Pathway to Career Success,
Scientific Societal & Behavioral Journal, 1(1), 59-65.
DOI: 10.63329/av3nz1236
Goolsby, M. J., & Knestrick, J. M. (2017). Effective professional networking.
Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners
,
29
(8), 441–445. https://doi.org/10.1002/2327-6924.12484
Schmidt, K. (n.d.).
5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networkingLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
[Blog post]. Retrieved August 26, 2025, from
5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d). Vision and Mission. Retrieved August 26, 2025 from
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals
Links to an external site.
.
Walden University. (n.d.). Networking. Retrieved on August 26, 2025, from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/careerservicescenter/networking/home
Walden University. (n.d.).
College of NursingLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
Retrieved August 26, 2025, from
https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/fieldexperience/son#s-lg-box-3837398
Links to an external site.
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Lavonia Nicole Landrum
Aug 26 9:47pm
| Last reply Aug 30 10:58pm
Reply from Lavonia Nicole Landrum
My name is Lavonia (Niki) Landrum. I am 33 years old and have been a nurse for 11 years. I have spent the majority of my career on a surgical orthopedic floor of a small, 100-bed, rural hospital in South Georgia. I also have experience as an OR circulator, mental health nurse, and spent the majority of the pandemic on our COVID-19 unit. I have been at my current facility for 11 years next month. I have a wonderful husband, and together we have two 15-year-old boys, a 14-year-old boy, and a 9-year-old girl. After many years as a charge nurse and full-time mom, I am finally ready to begin my journey to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Since graduating from nursing school in 2014, I have worked in many different roles. Each one brought a new set of challenges that I was eager to approach head-on. While working through the pandemic in 2020, I decided to return to school to obtain my Bachelor’s Degree, graduating in 2022. Although I thought this was the end of my educational path, just two years later, I began dreaming about furthering my education to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. This led me to researching many different schools and talking to numerous advisors while searching for the best fit for me. Walden University was one of the many schools that I contacted; however, it immediately ascended to the top of my prospect list.
Walden’s vision and mission statements mirrored my needs for an “inclusive online learning community” that provides the necessary knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the public (Walden, 2025). This aligns perfectly with my goals, both short and long-term. I intend to work full-time while continuing my education, and upon completion, I will practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner in my community. I was also intrigued that I would be able to connect with like-minded nurses throughout the country, as “Walden University provides a diverse community of career professionals with the opportunity to transform themselves as scholar-practitioners (Walden University, 2025).” This connection with future Nurse Practitioners across the country will be invaluable throughout my upcoming career.
As a student, networking provides a vast wealth of knowledge and experience to be shared among like-minded individuals pursuing higher education. These relationships can not only assist in the successful completion of the program but also provide future collaboration for patient care. Networking amongst medical professionals “serve as an invaluable resource for knowledge that can be instrumental in advancing the nurse’s career (Schmidt, 2020).” This networking can assist in providing the best care to patients, ultimately improving their outcomes.
References:
Schmidt, K. (2020, September 4). 5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking. BluePipes Blog. https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously
Walden University. (2025). Academics: Student handbook: Vision and goals. Vision and Goals – Student Handbook – Academics at Walden University. https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals#:~:text=Walden%20University%20strives%20to%20produce,a%20commitment%20to%20lifelong%20learning.
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Donna Carol-Baxter
Aug 26 9:08pm
| Last reply Aug 31 8:12am
Reply from Donna Carol-Baxter
My name is Donna Baxter. I have been a nurse for 15 years, with experience in Medical Surgical, Cardiac, ER, and Critical Care. I recently fulfilled my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and have transitioned into academia as an undergraduate nursing professor, while maintaining my clinical skills in the acute care setting. I am excited to start the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program and look forward to expanding my knowledge to contribute to the vulnerable populations.
I chose Walden University and the College of Nursing because their mission and vision closely match my goals as a DNP-prepared nurse, educator, and administrator. Their emphasis on social change, leadership, and lifelong learning aligns with my goal of improving mental health care and making a significant difference in vulnerable populations. (Walden University, n.d.-b)
As I develop my Academic Success and Professional Development Plan, I recognize the importance of engaging with the academic community. Faculty mentors me in refining my passion for working with mental health populations through teaching and enhancing my clinical skills. Support teams, such as advisors and library staff, assist me in accessing resources and staying organized. Fellow students provide collaboration and shared experiences that broaden my perspective. Connecting with practicing mental health professionals offers practical insights and helps me clarify best practices for patient care. (Turi et al.)
Networking is fundamental for achieving both professional and academic success. Building relations with faculty, peers, and experts provides mentorship, teamwork, and career opportunities. It also creates a reassuring community, offering encouragement and responsibility as I pursue my goals. Through networking, I can strengthen my impact as a nurse educator and administrator, ultimately advancing care for mental health populations. (Walden University, n.d.-b) Networking Opportunities NURS-6003 Module 1: Discussion
In summary, Walden’s mission and vision provide a background for aligning my academic journey with my professional goals. Leveraging my educational and professional networks will guide me in developing my blueprint for success and accomplishing my vision of improving mental health care through leadership, education, and practice. (Walden University, n.d.-b)
Reference:
Turi, Eleanor, et al. “The Effectiveness of Nurse Practitioner Care for Patients with Mental Health Conditions in Primary Care Settings: A Systematic Review.”
Nursing Outlook
, vol. 71, no. 4, 1 July 2023, pp. 1–23, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0029655423001008,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2023.101995
Links to an external site.
.
Walden University. (n.d.-b).
Vision, mission, goals, and social change
.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals
Links to an external site.
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Lauren Smith
Aug 26 8:40pm
| Last reply Aug 28 10:52pm
Reply from Lauren Smith
My name is Lauren Smith and I am currently a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in a Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit in Tampa, Florida. I am pursuing my Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate here at Walden University. I am very excited for this opportunity to further my education as a student enrolled at Walden University as its vision and goals resonate with me, particularly the goal “to produce graduates who are scholarly, reflective practitioners and agents of positive social change” (Walden University, 2025,
Goals
section). I believe that as an advanced practice provider I have the knowledge and skills to guide those in my community and society to shift toward health promotion and prevention. This is important to me because I want to lead a long, healthy life and focus on prevention rather than treatment so I can enjoy what the future has in store for me as I watch my 4 young children grow.
Similar to how Walden University’s goals impress upon me, the Mission of the College of Nursing excites me as it is “dedicated to excellence in nursing education, provides programs to transform diverse nursing professionals into champions of change who will improve health outcomes and advance health equity (Walden University, 2025,
College of Nursing, Mission
section). Despite my career as an intensive care nurse and nurse practitioner, recently I have been eager to interact and care for patients who are not critically ill. For well over a decade I have been taking care of acutely ill pediatric patients, which can weigh on a provider over time. I’m eager to start a new chapter and practice in Family health, which will allow me to shift from caring for the critically ill to promoting advancement in health and wellness to my patients.
As I progress on my new journey it will be essential to establish connections and networks where I can learn and grow continuously, as this avenue of Family practice is new to me. I plan to start with my local network and contacts in the medical community as I embark on the search for practicum sites. I recently learned about the Tampa Bay Advanced Practice Nurses Council, which is a resource for networking within my local community where they have meet ups and continuing education opportunities (TBAPNC Tampa Bay Advanced Practice Nurses Council, n.d.). Additionally, I anticipate associating myself with professional nursing organizations such as Nurse Practitioner Associates for Continuing Education (NPACE), which will be a great resource for continuing education (NPACE Nurse Practitioner Associates for Continuing Education, 2025,
Advance your career. Shape the future of healthcare).
Within the Walden University community, I plan to connect with my Academic Advisor to discuss my course curriculum and ensure I remain on track as this is a fast paced curriculum. I have signed up for a round table discussion on preparing and planning for my practicum.
References:
NPACE Nurse Practitioner Associates for Continuing Education. 2025.
Advance your career. Shape the future of healthcare.
https://www.npace.org/
Links to an external site.
TBAPNC Tampa Bay Advanced Practice Nurses Council. (n.d.).
https://tbapnc.enpnetwork.com/https://tbapnc.enpnetwork.com/https://tbapnc.enpnetwork.com/https://tbapnc.enpnetwork.com/
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2025).
College of Nursing: Mission
. Walden University Catalog and Handbook.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/catalog/nursing
Walden University. (2025).
Vision and Goals.
Walden University Student Handbook.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals#s-lg-box-30140618
Links to an external site.
SC
Sherry Clair
Aug 26 2:50pm
| Last reply Aug 30 2:30pm
Reply from Sherry Clair
I graduated from nursing school in 2009 and began my career as a Labor and Delivery Nurse—a role I once considered my dream job. I celebrated with families during their most joyful moments and provided comfort for some during the worst day of their lives. I shared with my family then that I planned to dedicate my entire nursing career to being an L&D nurse. However, after the birth of my middle child, my perspective—and ultimately, my professional goals—changed profoundly.
During my son’s medical visits, I encountered multiple instances of insensitive and uninformed remarks from healthcare providers. One of these remarks directed at me while the provider was examining my son on my lap; ‘You knew about it while you were pregnant, and you still continued the pregnancy?’. These experiences were heartbreaking coming from individuals that I held in high esteem. They were also illuminating compelling me to advocate for compassionate, unbiased care for individuals with disabilities. Motivated by these personal encounters, I have sought to influence positive change within my professional and local communities regarding the medical care for people with intellectual and physical disabilities.
Walden University’s vision to “solve critical societal challenges” and its goal of producing graduates who are “reflective and agents of positive social change” resonate deeply with me (Walden University, n.d.). As a mother and nurse passionate about this vulnerable population, I believe Walden’s mission fits perfectly with my academic journey and professional goals. Pursuing a Family Nurse Practitioner degree at Walden allows me to build on my foundation in nursing education and will give me the tools to provide holistic, respectful care to individuals with complex needs.
With approximately 13% of the population has intellectual or physical disabilities, and over 70% of this group require care from multiple medical specialties (Institute on Disability Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Disability Statistics, n.d.), care unique to this population is needed. My goal is to be an advocate and provider who not only delivers compassionate primary care but also provides access to comprehensive, multi-disciplinary services specific to this population.
The Walden MSN Program Outcomes emphasizes the development of practitioners who combine evidence-based practice, demonstrate ethical leadership, and engage in social change initiatives (Walden University, n.d. ). Qualities that are essential to my growth as a clinician and advocate. These outcomes align with my commitment to reflective practice and lifelong learning, which are vital for delivering quality care and effecting systemic change within healthcare settings.
Networking is an important component of achieving these personal and practice goals. By connecting with peers, mentors, and professionals across specialties, I can expand my knowledge, advocate for best practices, and collaborate to improve care models for individuals with disabilities. Such professional relationships provide opportunities to influence policy, improve access to care, and support holistic, patient-centered approaches.
In summary, my personal experiences and professional aspirations align closely with Walden’s vision, goals, and MSN Program Outcomes. I am dedicated to becoming a practitioner who not only provides compassionate care but also contributes to positive social change in healthcare for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.
References
Institute on Disability Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Disability Statistics. (n.d.).
Annual Disability Statistics Compendium 2025
.
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED673281.pdf
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.).
Walden University student handbook
.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals
Links to an external site.
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Harnell Seguerra
Aug 26 1:41pm
| Last reply Aug 26 8:30pm
Reply from Harnell Seguerra
Hi everyone, my name is Harnell, and I’ve been a nurse for 20 years.
After
I finished
my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, I
started
my career as an Operating Room Nurse.
Then I saw an opportunity to I could grow more with my knowledge, abilities, and skills in different settings. I decided to move to the Intensive Care Unit and stayed for 14 years.
Now is the time for me to advance my career to
a higher
level,
taking
my Master’s Degree.
To further my education, I decided to pursue a career as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and I found my online program at Walden University.
I was
very excited that I could go back
to school while working full-time.
To achieve this goal, I enrolled in Walden University and share the same vision, mission, and goals. As a student-centered program, it will help me enhance my academic abilities and skills (Walden University, n.d.a).
Being surrounded by multidisciplinary, I can
make
my knowledge and
skills
positive
.
Advancing my education will
nurture
my critical thinking skills and
help
me excel in my profession.
While I’m practicing in Critical care settings, this MSN program will cultivate me to demonstrate a high level of knowledge in
taking care of
critically ill patients. Walden University will help me get all the education I need and apply this learning to the issues and challenges in the workplace (Walden University, n.d.b).
Networking has been very important in the field of nursing. It plays a role in social interactions and personal relationships. We are all practicing in different nursing specialties, but we can narrow down ideas that can help ourselves and benefit our patients. Collaborating with all medical professions, including a former coworker, will develop a solid and strong relationship that may help me in the future (Wofford, 2018).
References :
Walden University. (n.d.a).
Walden University catalogLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved October 4, 2019, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
Walden University. (n.d.b).
Walden University catalogLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved October 4, 2019, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
Wofford, P. (2018).
10 networking tips for nurses who hate
networkingLinks
to an external site.
Links to an external site.
. Retrieved from https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/
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Reagan Bryant
Aug 26 12:09pm
| Last reply Aug 27 1:17am
Reply from Reagan Bryant
I have only cared for pediatric patients in Memphis, TN, and the surrounding areas throughout my nursing career. I currently work at a pediatric hospital on the surgical/orthopedics floor and at a psychiatric facility on the child/adolescent unit. The patients I work with have experienced different traumas such as abuse/neglect, gunshot wounds, and car wrecks. Caring for children from various backgrounds and experiences has ignited my passion to help children and families even more. My professional goal is to open a clinic as a pediatric mental health nurse practitioner alongside a licensed social worker and other medical professionals to serve those in my community.
Psychiatry and mental health have always piqued my interest. Mental health has been a controversial topic within the Black community, and I would like to help educate people and remove its stigma. To do that, I knew I had to further my education and find a school aligned with my own values. Walden’s MSN program had been recommended to me by a former student, but I also conducted my own research. According to Walden University (n.d.), their MSN program’s outcomes emphasize lifelong learning, supporting diversity and multiculturalism, and facilitating community social change. These values strongly align with my personal and professional goals.
The patient population I work with is often affected by socioeconomic barriers such as poverty, racism, and limited access to healthcare. These factors greatly influence mental health, and I want to understand better the social and psychological influences behind behavior to provide more effective care. Working at a behavioral health facility has allowed me to learn from psychiatric NPs, social workers, and therapists while observing the many factors that shape mental health outcomes. This experience, paired with Walden’s focus on social change, reinforces my decision to pursue advanced practice nursing to continue educating, advocating, and making meaningful change.
Networking has also played an essential role in my journey. Collaborating with psychiatric nurse practitioners, social workers, and therapists at my current facility has helped me expand my knowledge and gain new perspectives on treatment approaches. Beyond workplace connections, networking with peers, mentors, and professional organizations will help me stay updated on best practices and create opportunities to advance my career. Making myself open and available to others in this field will strengthen my ability to influence and serve my community.
References:
Walden University. (n.d.). Vision and goals: Student handbook – Academics at Walden University. Retrieved from
https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/
Links to an external site.
Schmidt, K. (n.d.).
5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networkingLinks to an external site. https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/
Links to an external site.
[Blog post]. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from
Hamlin, K. (2024, October 23). Professional networking in nursing. NurseJournal.org. Retrieved from
https://nursejournal.org/resources/networking-in-nursing/
Links to an external site.
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Sherley Alexandre
Aug 25 8:45pm
| Last reply Aug 27 7:13pm
Reply from Sherley Alexandre
Hi, my name is Sherley. I chose to attend Walden University because of its reputation for providing flexible online programs that fit well with my busy schedule. I was drawn to their focus on creating positive social change and helping students make a difference in their communities. I appreciate that Walden’s learning environment is supportive and designed to help working professionals succeed, which made it the perfect choice for me as I balance my job, family, and education (Walden University, n.d.).
I decided on Walden University because its mission to promote social good by educating ethical and innovative healthcare professionals aligns with my personal values. The Master of Science in Nursing program with a specialization as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner matches my goal of developing advanced clinical skills and taking on leadership roles in mental health care. Additionally, I valued Walden’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, which creates an environment that encourages growth and provides the necessary resources for success (Walden University, n.d.).
I hope to grow personally through my education at Walden by gaining more knowledge and skills in mental health care. My goal is to become a confident and skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who can provide comprehensive, compassionate treatment to my patients. I also want to enhance my research and critical thinking abilities so I can advocate effectively for my patients and make a meaningful impact in my community. I believe that Walden’s program will equip me with the tools needed to serve others better and improve mental health services (Nurse.org, n.d.).
Earning my MSN degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Walden University will help me reach my professional goals by preparing me for advanced practice roles. This degree will enable me to offer specialized mental health services and assume leadership positions within healthcare organizations. For example, I plan to work in community mental health clinics or outpatient facilities, helping patients recover and raising awareness about mental health issues. The skills I develop will also allow me to mentor other nurses and contribute to improvements in mental health care in my community (Walden University, n.d.).
Main Discussion Post
Hello, my name is Brinley! I am 25 years old and currently live in Georgia with my husband and our chocolate lab. I started nursing school at the start of the pandemic and have now been a nurse for 3 years. I started as a new graduate in the ICU, and I am still there currently. I love where I currently work, but I have always wanted to further my education. I am excited to gain my Acute Care Nurse Practitioner license ultimately. I am still uncertain about what specialty I want to work in after I graduate.
Walden’s vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives align with my professional and academic goals in several different ways. The first way is that I am currently still working full-time, so I need to find a school that would be accommodating to my work schedule. I love that Walden University offers nurse practitioner programs exclusively online, so I can continue to work while furthering my education. Another perk of being online is being able to connect with peers from all different walks of life. Walden offers learner-centered programs that allow me to incorporate some of my own needs into my academics. Walden University emphasizes producing scholar-practitioners who produce a positive social change (Walden University, 2025a). This allows me to achieve my professional goals by learning how to improve my patients’ outcomes and promote equity for all. I hope that by choosing Walden, I can expand my knowledge of diverse groups and continue advocating for them as a practitioner.
Walden’s MSN program further supports my professional and academic goals by educating me on global perspectives, which allow me to continue to evolve as a healthcare professional. They also use nursing theories and ethical principles such as integrity, human dignity, and social justice (Walden University, 2025b). These principles directly align with the kind of nurse I am today and the type of nurse practitioner I want to be. My goal as a future nurse practitioner is to be able to give my patients a more comprehensive and diverse view of healthcare.
Networking is essential, no matter what career you choose. By networking, I can connect with peers and professionals in healthcare who have been in my situation and can enlighten me on what to expect and offer guidance on topics they wish they had known before expanding their education. Through networking with peers, I was introduced to Walden University. My peers can also provide me support through my academics and help alleviate stress (Hamlin, 2024). I can also gain potential mentors who can help shape how I will be as a nurse practitioner. Most job opportunities are also found by networking; 80% of jobs are filled by networking alone (Schmidt, 2020). Referral bonuses also offer a nice reward from networking. Starting to network now might lead to meeting people who can help me achieve my long-term professional goals.
References
Hamlin, K. (2024, October 23).
Professional networking in nursing
. NurseJournal.org.
https://nursejournal.org/resources/networking-in-nursing/
Links to an external site.
Schmidt, K. (2020, September 4).
5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking
. BluePipes Blog. https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/
Walden University. (2025a).
Academics: Student handbook: Vision and goals
. Vision and Goals – Student Handbook – Academics at Walden University. https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals#:~:text=Walden%20University%20strives%20to%20produce,a%20commitment%20to%20lifelong%20learning.
Walden University. (2025b).
Academics: College of nursing: Master of science in nursing (MSN)
. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – College of Nursing – Academics at Walden University. https://academics.waldenu.edu/catalog/nursing/master-science/nursing#s-lg-box-29662482
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Nathalie Candide Crevecoeur
Aug 25 3:24pm
| Last reply Aug 29 12:51pm
Reply from Nathalie Candide Crevecoeur
Hi everyone, my name is Nathalie, and I’m a PACU nurse with 10 years of experience in telemetry, medical-surgical, stepdown, and ICU settings. I’m beginning the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track because I come from a culture where mental health has not traditionally been prioritized, and I want to help close that gap for patients and families in my community here in Florida.
Walden’s emphasis on positive social change and learner-centered education resonates with my purpose. The focus on quality, integrity, and student-centeredness mirrors how I practice at the bedside and how I aspire to lead as a future PMHNP, utilizing inquiry, reflection, and evidence to advocate for vulnerable populations and reduce mental health stigma. Walden University Outcomes, particularly facilitating positive social change, practicing legal and ethical integrity, and communicating effectively, align directly with the competencies I aim to develop as I transition from acute care to psychiatric practice (Walden University, n.d.-a).
The program’s call to build an individualized “blueprint” for academic and professional success fits my journey: I plan to integrate my critical-care assessment skills with advanced psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy competencies. By engaging faculty, support teams, and peers, I aim to strengthen clinical reasoning, information literacy, and culturally responsive care, key to becoming a reflective scholar-practitioner who can translate evidence into equitable mental-health outcomes (Walden University, n.d.-b).
Networking will be essential as I pivot specialties. Within Walden, I’ll connect with faculty mentors and classmates across regions to exchange resources on PMHNP best practices. Professionally, I plan to join local and national psychiatric nursing organizations, attend grand rounds, and cultivate preceptor relationships. Effective networking helps clarify career goals, surfaces learning opportunities, and builds collaborative support systems, especially valuable for someone moving from PACU/ICU to behavioral health (Schmidt, n.d.; Wofford, 2018).
My vision is to deliver safe, dignified, evidence-based mental-health care while advocating for access and destigmatization. I’m excited to learn with you all and to contribute to a community that turns scholarship into meaningful social change.
References:
Schmidt, K. (n.d.).
5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking
. {Blog post]. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from
5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.-a).
University outcomes and values
.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals
Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.-b).
Vision, mission, goals, and social change
.
https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-goals
Links to an external site.
Wofford, P. (2018).
10 networking tips for nurses who hate networking
. Nurse.org. Retrieved from
https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/
Links to an external site.
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Amy Barlock
Aug 25 1:17pm
| Last reply Aug 29 12:54pm
Reply from Amy Barlock
Hi, my name is Amy and I’ve been a nurse for 5 years. I began my nursing career at the beginning of the covid-19 pandemic and the med-surg with a focus on orthopedic floor I worked on quickly turned into a step down unit. After about a year and a half I decided to move to Gilbert Arizona where my now husband was living. I worked at MD Anderson Cancer Center and did outpatient infusion for almost two years there. A few years later we moved to North Carolina and have an almost 2 year old boy. I work for Duke Health as PRN at their oncology infusion center in Durham. I have always held a passion for health and wellness and my goal is to become an advanced practitioner who works in the functional medicine field. We love to travel and am very happy this program is online to allow me to continue to do so.
Waldens vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives relate to my professional and academic goals and to my becoming a scholar-practitioner because I believe that having a diverse community of career professionals is better than no diversity. “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 (Walden University, 2025).” Every individual in the world has a different experience and knowledge base and we can learn so much from them. I want to make an impact on my community as an advanced practice provider and part of Waldens vision is to “prepare distinguished graduates to advance the greater good of global communities (Walden University, 2025).” Positive social change aims to improve human and social conditions by promoting the worth, dignity, and development of individuals and communities. As a professional, my goal is to join professional nursing organizations and advocate for my community.
The MSN Program outcomes and perspectives relate to my professional and academic goals by aligning with the type of advanced practice provider I want to be. One that stood out to me is “Integratively assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate cost-effective healthcare strategies that reduce health disparities by patient/population advocacy for access to specialist nursing care (Walden University, 2025).” Integrity is huge and having strong moral principles is something I don’t take lightly and was happy to see this on their program outcomes. My academic goals also consist of being able to evaluate health needs of diverse populations, ongoing commitment to professional development, which is highlighted under Waldens program outcomes. I strive to do this not only for myself, but to be a role model for my son.
Networking is so important in this field and it can help me achieve my professional and academic goals. Networking helps you hear about job openings before they’re even advertised, which can make you stand out. By making these connections with others you can learn more about new practices in the field. Networking also builds trust and communication among different specialties. “Professional networking can help nurses achieve the fundamental knowledge required to take the next step. For example, nurses can develop relationships with individuals who work in their desired fields or roles with the intent of gaining knowledge. In other words, this professional contact may never lead to an actual job, but instead serve as an invaluable resource for knowledge that can be instrumental in advancing the nurse’s career (Schmidt, n.d.).” I can relate to this because this is how I found my current job here in North Carolina. I network on LinkedIn and came across a job posting for oncology at Duke. It wasn’t the department I wanted, but I developed a relationship with this person and she became such a great resource for me and then eventually a year and a half later I was able to land the job I was initially looking for.
Walden University. (n.d.). Nurse Practitioner Programs Practicum Manual for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Post-Master’s Certificate: Section 1: Introduction.
https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/msn/practicum-manual/introduction#s-lg-box-27713490
Links to an external site.
Schmidt, K. (n.d.).
5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networkingLinks to an external site.
Links to an external site.
[Blog post]. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from
5 Reasons Nurses Should Engage in Professional Networking
Links to an external site.
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Angalisa Rose Brittlebank
Aug 25 10:21am
| Last reply Aug 28 3pm
Reply from Angalisa Rose Brittlebank
The Foundation of my Academic and Professional Success
Success to me means being able to achieve a goal or desired outcome. It is being a better version of yourself.
I have been a nurse for 6 years now with experience in many different areas, but child/adolescent mental health is a passion of mine. While currently working as a school nurse, I have had the opportunity of working with school counselors and psychologists with whom have assisted me with accomplishing my goal of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
How does Walden/College of Nursing Mission/Vision apply to my Professional/Academic goal
As mentioned in my introduction, mental health my passion, while choosing a program that would be beneficial to my academic success, Walden’s mission statement for the PMHNP program states to”Provide holistic care for patients with psychiatric disorders and emotional challenges. Be a lifeline to those who are struggling.”(walden university,2025). Holistic Care in Nursing is key and I truly believe in this.
Networking
In my opinion, networking is important, because it can open doors to endless possibilities. When deciding which university to choose to further my degree, I utilized many different resources in making my decision. For example, talking with friends and social media sites.
References
Walden University.(2025)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program.
https://waldenu.edu
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Amanda Jean Rawlinson
Aug 23 10:56pm
| Last reply Aug 27 7:09pm
Reply from Amanda Jean Rawlinson
Hello, my name is Amanda, but I go by Mandie. I have been working as a Pediatric Psych Nurse for the past 3 years and absolutely love this field. I see the growing need for more providers and more people in general when it comes to this area of health care. I have also done a few travel assignments as well. I got married last year in November to my best friend, Eli. We have 2 crazy cats and live in Jacksonville, FL. I moved here to FL from IL (freezing cold).
Walden’s vision, goals, mission, and social change initiatives relate to my professional and academic goals by being all about the students. One of their core values is student centeredness. That just goes to show how important our success is to this program; they want to see us do well and succeed. Their goals are very similar in that aspect. They also provide students with so many different options when it comes to fields of study.
This program relates to my academic goals because they are dedicated to making us reliable, dependable, and competent in our field of study. We have ample resources available to use that we can utilize to better our education. They truly seem to care about their students and really want us to succeed.
Networking is important because you never know who you might meet and what they may have to offer. It also allows us to be more open and available to knowledge and things we might have not learned. We may also find mentorship in networking. It’s all about being open and making yourself available to opportunities. You want to make yourself known so they can also seek you out. Networking Opportunities NURS-6003 Module 1: Discussion