For Laura, becoming a nurse wasn’t just a career decision, it was personal. Diagnosed with a chronic illness at a young age, it was her experience as a patient that drew her to nursing. “The compassion, skill, and presence of the nurses who cared for me made a lasting impact,” she recalls. “It was through them that I saw how powerful nursing can be in shaping a patient’s experience and recovery.”
Today, Laura is a recently hired nurse in the Emergency Department (ED) at Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH). For her, it feels like coming full circle. “I grew up in Burlington,” she says. “So working at JBH felt like an opportunity to give back to my local community.”
Laura’s path through nursing school deepened her appreciation for the human side of healthcare. “One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the power of therapeutic communication and empathy,” shares Laura. “Truly listening to patients, showing compassion and building trust can be just as impactful as any clinical intervention when it comes to promoting healing and comfort.”
While Laura hadn’t considered emergency nursing as a potential career path, her clinical school placement shifted her perspective. “Being part of such a high-intensity environment, where autonomy, critical thinking, and rapid decision-making are essential, showed me how much I enjoy and thrive in that kind of setting,” Laura explains. “That placement was instrumental in shaping my identity as a nurse and continues to influence the way I approach my practice today.”
Transitioning from student to independent practitioner was not without challenges, but Laura is proud of how far she has come. “Looking back, the growth I’ve experienced from the start of nursing school to where I am now is truly astronomical,” she shares. “I’ve grown significantly in my clinical judgment, decision-making, and ability to provide safe, effective care under pressure.”
To others looking to pursue a career in nursing, Laura offers this advice: “Nursing will challenge you mentally, emotionally, and physically, but that’s where real growth happens. Stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Build strong relationships with your peers, they’ll become your greatest support. And never forget that you’re interacting with people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Because of that, even the smallest act of kindness or reassurance can leave a lasting impact.”
Outside of the hospital, Laura prioritizes rest and self-care. “For me, taking care of my well-being is all about making sure I recharge my battery,” she says. “Being well-rested helps me stay focused, manage stress, and provide the best care for others. I also make time for small moments of self-care to keep my energy balanced.”
Laura’s impact is already being felt by those around her. Her manager, Sarah, shares: “Laura is an outstanding nurse who truly deserves recognition. Though she’s relatively new to the profession, she already exemplifies the qualities of a wonderful nurse. Laura shows incredible compassion under pressure and consistently makes her patients feel safe and cared for. Her quick thinking, teamwork and eagerness to learn make Laura a standout member of the ED.”
Looking ahead, Laura is excited for what’s to come. “Nursing is a dynamic profession with so many pathways to explore. I’m eager to see where it takes me.
As we recognize Student Nurses Day, we celebrate Laura and all student nurses – those at the beginning of their nursing journey, with dedication, compassion and a commitment to care. Your work is shaping the future of healthcare one patient at a time.