Our 2021 Pathfinder Students and Mentors

Nurse, Heart and Kidney Unit 

I am a bilingual dedicated and patient-focused Registered Nurse, who can work effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced clinical setting. I am able to work as a team member, interact effectively with a wide range of patients, staff and families. As a Conway Nursing Pathfinder, I can learn how mentorship works and learn new skills for my professional development. I have noticed that nurses are having a lot of difficulties in their first year working on the floor. My purpose of becoming a Conway Pathway mentor is to share my experiences, knowledge and skills that I have been able to get through the years.

Clinical Nurse, Heart and Kidney Unit 

Mentoring has always come very natural to me. I have enjoyed mentors in the past when I have taken on new challenges, including nursing school or a new job. The value of mentorship is irreplaceable. To be able to learn and grow from someone who has been on your path allows you to be open and understand that struggles are necessary for growth. Mentoring relationships are extremely powerful and can lead to great success for both the mentor and the mentee.

Manager, Research and Development Programs

I appreciate the vision of the Conway Pathway program and investment that offers the students and new graduates a relationship-based program with resources connected to a clinical practice setting. I enjoy mentoring and it provides an opportunity to share and give back to Children's National. I have mentored several nurses and am currently mentoring nurses interested in conducting translational nursing studies and new members of NRAC.

Nurse Manager, Emergency Department at UMC 

I mentor high school students as they are in the process of deciding the next state of higher learning and preparing for SAT exams. It is important for the new generation of nurses to have quality mentors who can speak to the state of nursing, experiences and expectations in the role.

I will benefit from this program as being a mentor by strengthening my communication and relationship skills/qualities. Also, this will help me with staying connected to the education that is being provided to the current nursing student, as well as assisting the mentee in preparing for a career in nursing.

Clinical Nurse, Unit 4 Main 

I like to being a Conway Pathway mentor because I genuinely aspire to motivate and encourage nurses of the future. I enjoy sharing both past and present experiences within my nursing career, that have molded me into the strong nurse I am today. My passion for the nursing profession and education is what inspires me to help others reach their goals both professionally and personally. Through this mentor program I will gain the reassuring satisfaction that I have made a positive impact on someone's future.

Nurse Manager, Cardiac Intensive Care Unit 

I have served as a mentor in my unit-based mentor program for years and have mentored four nurses. I also mentor outside of Children's National Hospital in a personal capacity with youth from my church.

I want to be able to reach those that have an interest specifically in nursing. I hope to be able to help support and influence new people into the profession of nursing.

I benefit from learning from the mentee. This helps me to be connected and have a greater understanding on what is needed and how I can be of help.

Clinical Coordinator, Children’s School Services

Being a Conway Pathway mentor gives me an opportunity to share my vast experiences in nursing with the next generation of young nurses. I have been blessed to have people sow into my life both personally and professionally and I feel it is my responsibility to do the same. Developing a mentoring relationship will also help enhance my communication and leadership skills and which leads to long-term authentic professional relationships.

• Graduate of Potomac High School
• Currently attending Marymount University

Ever since I was little, I wanted to be a person who could help others. By the time I reached middle I had my mind made up. I wanted to be and still want to be a nurse then later become a nurse practitioner, so that’s why I want to get my bachelor’s degree in nursing. A big reason that I want to be a nurse is because of some of my experiences in the hospital. The nurse sat with me and explained everything, she even let me listen to my little sister’s heartbeat. Essentially, my goal is to become a nurse and eventually a nurse practitioner in one of those specialties, and in turn, being able to make a difference in someone’s life. I am an empathetic and resourceful student. I am a fast learner and work well with others. I want to put my skills to work in the medical field as a nurse (specifically a NICU nurse).

• Graduate of Coolidge High School
• Currently attending Trinity Washington University

I did not know that there are so many kinds of nurses, and when I found this career of registered pediatric nursing, I thought that it would be the perfect major for me. I think this program is a great opportunity to help me become one. I am interested in becoming a registered pediatric nurse because I would be able to do the two things I enjoy: help kids and provide healthcare. I had the opportunity many times to attend field trips where I could see other nurses and how they explained what they do on a daily basis and what their life is like being nurses. It was something that caught my attention, so I started to research nursing and that is when I decided that this is what I want to do. As a first-generation college student in the United States, it is difficult to find the support since one is new to the college path. This program would allow for me to get this help and extra support that I know I will gain great knowledge from and help me in the long run in my career. It is a great opportunity and one that I know will take me far in places.

• Graduate of Elizabeth Seton High School
• Currently attending Trinity University 

Although nurses are busy all day long, they form a special connection with patients that impacts their day. Hard work and commitment are rewarded. Not only does this career have a lifetime of stability, but there are many advantages. I am a highly passionate and dedicated individual who works quickly and effectively. This career, in fact, chose me because of my eternal love and caring nature for kids. Having a mentor/mentee relationship will facilitate my success due to talking with someone who has experienced in a field that I take interest in. Furthermore, this will help me succeed with the aid of my mentor guiding me in the right direction. I feel that the role of a mentor is to support you and encourage you to overcome your difficulties and problems. As well, mentors can be someone who can push you to your fullest potential and actively listen to you. Finally, mentors leave the greatest impact on their mentees because of all the lessons they learn from them.

• Graduate of Coolidge High School
• Currently attending State University of New York College at Oswego

I am someone who understands you must work hard to achieve what you want in life. I feel the opportunity to be a part of this program will allow me to build the foundation necessary for a successful future and career. My long-term goal is to become a professional pediatric nurse. Currently, I am part of the NAF Academy of Health Sciences at my high school. This program has allowed me to explore careers in the health sciences and learn from different healthcare professionals. There are also other opportunities in Children's National Conway Nursing Pathway Program such as job opportunities and internships to apply for during breaks and academic semesters. These outside resources will help me see the world and expand my knowledge outside the classroom. From my high school experience, I know how beneficial working with people from different backgrounds and cultures are. It is a great privilege to join the Children's National Conway Nursing Pathway Program.

Marymount University BSN Program 

As a first-generation Native American college student, I know the challenges that Native American children and families face with healthcare. Becoming a pediatric nurse, I will have the chance to make a change in my community and advocate the importance of care for the children. It is my desire to become a registered professional nurse because I love being around children and I want to be able to ease their fears when being seen by a physician. When growing up I remember being afraid of going to the doctor. By having a mentor while going through this learning experience I will be able to have the best support system, encouragement, guidance, advice and a role model to look up to.

University of District of Columbia Community College Clinical Nurse GI I R Unit, Chamberlain RN-BSN Program 

Nursing to me, it's not just another occupation/career. Nor is it just a way of getting a bigger paycheck. To me, it's a calling. A calling to serve, to lead, to help and to care. A worthy act of service, that is often underappreciated and misjudged. And one of the coolest things about it is, watching every individual who falls under this profession, find their own style. If there is one thing that I have learned about nursing, it's always allowing yourself room to learn. And one of the best ways to do that, is by learning from others who were once in your shoes. A mentoring relationship will provide me with the tools I need to obtain and achieve my goals leading up and throughout my registered nurse professional career. Having someone to express my concerns, doubts and challenges with whom I know to have my best interest at heart, will boost my confidence and strengthen my motivation. Having a mentor is like having a coach, whom you can count on to steer you in the right direction and guide your footsteps along the way. If selected into this program, I know for sure, my pathway to success in my nursing professional career is certain.

Trinity University BSN Program

As a first-generation college student, not only will I make a difference in the medical community, but also in the Latino community. Due to there being a lack of Hispanic nurses within the healthcare industry, this results in health disparities in our healthcare because of the language barriers. Being admitted to the Conway Program will not only give me the knowledge to be able to influence change but provide me the experience to help and grow in areas that are needed. This mentorship program will benefit me greatly by having someone there to help guide me to my goals and ambitions. My passion for community engagement and service to others will allow me to excel greatly in this program. I would love the opportunity to be able to serve my community and other health minorities. This will be my journey...

Howard University BSN Program

Through several personal, volunteer and professional experiences I have recognized my passion for nursing in pediatrics. The influence that these opportunities and occurrences have had on me are everlasting. Through mentorship and the several examples set before me I have been able to witness success in pediatric nurses in various circumstances. I have learned that pediatric nursing is not one of the easiest fields, but it is one that nurses must be truly dedicated to and my main goal is to become one of the best pediatric nurses. Having the opportunity to participate in the Children’s National Hospital Conway Nursing Pathway Program would not only be conducive to my success in pursuing a career in pediatric nursing, but it would also grant me a mentorship relationship that would aid me in excelling in all my future endeavors.

Bowie University BSN Program 

I took initiative to begin my future in pediatric nursing through my volunteer work. I independently searched for pediatric volunteering opportunities in my areas and discovered the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington, D.C. This nonprofit organization had a facility located within Children’s National Hospital that catered to children and their families awaiting treatment. I was so moved by the cause that I immediately sought to join Children’s National. The Conway Nursing Pathway Program will provide me additional and continual mentorship that I desire and will aid me in the completion of my nursing degree. Through encouragement and additional assistance on any areas I have concerning nursing school and life as a new grad, having a mentor is imperative to achieving my future endeavors, just as they have helped me in the past.

Psychiatric Technician, Chamberlain University BSN Program 

Once I received my acceptance letter to nursing school, I was so excited. Numerous nurses who I currently work with inspired and encouraged me to work hard towards entrance into this program. I believe that mentorship is a very important component in the nursing field. I believe that it is highly important for nursing students to learn and grown in their professional career by being taught by seasoned nurses. I have been an employee at Children’s National Hospital for about 10 years. I am inspired by the nurse’s ability to endure during difficult situations. I believe that the Conway Nursing Pathway Program will allow me the opportunity to provide care and continue to learn and grow as a nursing student and soon as a registered nurse. Upon graduating from university, I would love to continue to work in psychiatry as a RN pediatric psychiatric.

Howard University BSN Program 

The bonds that I’ve built with children I’ve worked with over the years have positively impacted my decision to become a pediatric nurse. A career in pediatrics will allow me to continue to touch the lives of the children I encounter as well as enable me to act as a role model. I have a natural rapport with children that will be of great benefit to my nursing practice as a pediatric nurse. Being able to connect to children is extremely important because pediatric patients often don’t understand why they are undergoing certain treatments or procedures. Becoming a Conway Pathfinder and having the opportunity to have a mentor who acts as a guide and role model would be a great asset to the advancement of my career. This relationship will help me cultivate a safe space to grow into my nursing practice. They have the experience and have probably made mistakes that I can learn from. Having someone that I can trust and knowing that there is someone who has my back will help me build the necessary confidence needed as a new nurse.

Emergency Room Technician - Dual Enrolled College of Southern MD-AND Program and Frostburg State University BSN Program 

I genuinely enjoy helping people. I find being able to help at the most difficult and vulnerable times in a person’s life truly special. I enjoyed my experience in the Emergency Medical System (EMS) as a volunteer EMT-B/EMT-P. Through my experiences I also confirmed that I have a huge passion for pediatrics; kids can easily brighten my day and it fulfills my purpose when I can brighten. A couple of years after high school, I obtained my first job at Children’s National working in Emergency Department (ED) registration and then an Emergency Room Technician. My long-term goal has always been to grow at Children’s National to eventually reach the RN position. The Conway mentoring relationship would certainly facilitate my success in becoming an RN. I value the support and partnership bringing the best version of myself into fruition.

University of Virginia BSN Program 

Three years later, I embarked on the journey to become a professional nurse, and the first few weeks of a clinical assignment during my second year brought reassurance that I had chosen the right profession. I also realize that if I serve as a pediatric nurse, my experience with children will not compensate for the fact that I have never been in a parent’s shoes. Unfortunately, not all of the tools I will need as a nurse can be mastered by reading any number of textbooks, I have been inspired to read the profiles of former pathfinder mentors and learn that seasoned nurses working in the field have retained the same drive to nurture that I’ve witnessed in so many dedicated nursing professors. They seem to have developed resilience and the adaptive strategies that enable them to thrive and remain positive in an environment where fear, burnout and discouragement can be more contagious than germs. I would treasure the opportunity to absorb the wisdom of a practitioner who models the art and the best practices of the high calling of nursing.

 

New York University BSN Program

In my life, I have always felt an overwhelming need to care for others, and more than often this need is centered around children. I have had many great opportunities to explore my love for children, but many was outside of the clinical space. Mentorship with a pediatric nurse will teach me how to interact with kids beyond a personal level, through a professional and career-oriented lenses. Understanding how to create joy for these children in need, while continuously ensuring their wellbeing, is a difficult task to undergo, and it requires years of practice. Receiving mentorship from an experienced, professional pediatric nurse will allow me to get a head start on the work I want to do to perform my job to the best of my ability.

Catholic University of America BSN Program

I am one of the lucky few who knew what they wanted at a young age. I had spent every summer of high school as a camp counselor, which helped lead me to nursing. I became a caregiver, safety expert and supporter of the children who attended the camp. As a pediatric nurse, I’ll offer myself as a guide, resource and supporter for families and their children. I value learning from every nurse I work with to curate my own unique style of nursing practice. My goal is through forming a close relationship with my mentor, I can use our time together to develop my skills, focus on what is important and jump into the world of pediatric nursing. A mentor will have already experienced the transition from nursing school to working as a pediatric registered nurse and could share their experiences.

Marymount University BSN Program 

My spark for nursing all started when I was a young girl but has continued throughout my young adulthood. Due to event that have occurred in my life, I've made the decision to pursue a nursing career. The opportunity to be a part of the Conway Nursing Pathway Program, my one goal would be to help provide the best care to a patient and be the reason why a patient and their family smiles. I want to be one of those nurses that has a passion for their career and that not only makes their patients feel welcomed but their families as well and supported during long periods of hospitalization. Lastly, I want a nursing career that pushes me to my limits and makes me better as a human being.

Patient Care Technician, Neuroscience Unit, Stratford University BSN Program

In 2012, I applied to be a nursing assistant at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. I am still currently employed at Children’s National and my passion for nursing has grown. I have experienced so much while being employed at Children’s National and I want to continue to become more involved and more educated in healthcare to be a registered nurse. I believe that mentorship is important in aiding success toward the goal. Mentorship allows one to gain additional knowledge and skills beyond the workplace setting. Throughout my journey in the healthcare field, I have met so many different people and many still play an encouraging role in my career. I am grateful for all the opportunities that I have gained, and I will be mindful of the different techniques, skills and practices that I have learned over the years. I am eager to learn and become the best pediatric nurse that I can be!