Being a nursing professor is a way to express and feed my spiritual side. I remember what it was like to be a student and I always enjoyed precepting new nurses. Teaching has given me an opportunity to be a contributor in building nursing career foundations.
Grand Canyon University’s College of Nursing and Health Care Professions is unique because each student is an active participant in their education. All courses detail the expectations and are relevant to the nursing profession. The contacts you will make from networking are endless. As an instructor, I get to have the pleasure of learning something new in each course from students from all over the country and the world.
At GCU, I teach Professional Dynamics, an entry course for nurses that are obtaining their BSN. The discussion forums cover reflections on successful characteristics, nursing trends, standards and scope of practice and the driving force behind nurses advancing their degrees. It’s the first exposure to the learning platform for many students who may be new to the APA format and LoudCloud, so it’s important to be patient while they learn the ins and outs.
I also teach Concepts in Community and Public Health where we discuss the dynamics of a community and how nurses can support positive health promotion and cultural diversity. Another course, Health Assessments, is a chance to review health history, assessment and screening from infant to older adult while perfecting observation skills.