Application for the Fast Track Nursing Program

Since starting my nursing career at Penn, my commitment to primary care across the lifespan has consistently been reaffirmed. While the accelerated nursing program has challenged me, I utilize outside resources when necessary while building upon proven personal strengths and learning strategies. This approach will help me succeed through the family nurse practitioner (FNP) fast track program and as I become a leader in my field. Because of my experiences, qualifications, and passion for primary care I believe I am uniquely eligible for the fast track program.

Throughout the summer and fall, Penn’s nursing program has supported my growth both professionally and personally. Initially, N103 (Psychological and Social Diversity in Health and Wellness) piqued my interest because I was able to give words to something I always knew – socioeconomic and environmental factors heavily influence health. As an individual committed to supporting the wellbeing of others, I hope to strengthen the health of populations through clinical care, research and policy addressing these social determinants of health. Later, my N720 (Nursing of Children - Theory I: Child and Family Development), N215 (Nursing of Women and Infants), and N225 (Pediatric Nursing) classes were notable in that through these classes I was able to fill the dual role of providing family teaching and patient care. Consistently, though, I find myself pulled towards discussions of patients' psychosocial and discharge care needs – typically roles more closely aligned with primary care. I excelled in N235 (Psychiatric Nursing), which more than teaching me about psychiatry, taught me how to engage with patients and quickly build a therapeutic relationship. Of course, the truly ...

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...nician (EMT) 9 years ago, I have gained technical skills and the ability to rapidly build a rapport with patients. Already, this experience has facilitated numerous valuable encounters during clinical while setting me apart over other candidates who may be less comfortable in the care setting. Indeed, even as a nursing student, my comfort working with patients and members of the care team has allowed me to materially and positively affect patient care on numerous occasions. Additionally, my first degree in Chemistry gave me the tools and analytical nuance to pursue systematic research. Combined with my nursing education and passion for nursing research, these proficiencies uniquely prepare me to be at the forefront of evidence-based family practice nursing. Further, the fast track program will make pursuing a doctoral degree more logistically feasible for me.