John Martin

Hey everybody. My name is John Martin. I work at NHRMC on the 6th floor Med Diab. I have worked there since Feb. I really enjoy working with everyone on that floor no matter how crazy it gets. I graduated nursing school last year in Aug, moved down here thinking I would get a job at the hospital right away but had to settle for CND instead. Don't get me wrong, thats a nice place to work too its just not what I had in mind. Apparently the hospital was on a hiring freeze? (at least thats what they told me) Anyway, with a little persistance I finally was offered a position. I plan to work on this floor for at least a year to gain experience. I want to transfer to an ICU of somesort b/c I believe I'm better suited for that type of nsg. I want to continue my edu because I don't want to look back and say "I should have' like alot of nurses I talk to say.

John M

John Martin

Hey everybody. My name is John Martin. I work at NHRMC on the 6th floor Med Diab. I have worked there since Feb. I really enjoy working with everyone on that floor no matter how crazy it gets. I graduated nursing school last year in Aug, moved down here thinking I would get a job at the hospital right away but had to settle for CND instead. Don't get me wrong, thats a nice place to work too its just not what I had in mind. Apparently the hospital was on a hiring freeze? (at least thats what they told me) Anyway, with a little persistance I finally was offered a position. I plan to work on this floor for at least a year to gain experience. I want to transfer to an ICU of somesort b/c I believe I'm better suited for that type of nsg. I want to continue my edu because I don't want to look back and say "I should have' like alot of nurses I talk to say.

John M

Jennifer

Hello, my name is Jennifer and I just graduated this past May from Cape Fear Community College. I started working right away at New Hanover Regional Medical Center on the cardiac medical surgical telemetry floor. I am off orientation now and on my own. It's a little scary at times, but I am learning so much everyday and becoming a stronger nurse. I really enjoy working on the cardiac floor, I've always been interested in cardiac. I was a little apprehensive about returning to school so soon after graduating. I also just graduated from UNCW this past May with a psychology degree. So, I have been in school for awhile now. But I feel that now is a good time for me to get my bachelors in nursing. I am a new nurse and I am at the most vulnerable time in my career to be learning new information and to incorporate this new information into my clinical settings.
In my spare time I like to go to the beach, listen to music, and play volleyball. I am currently in the process of moving right now, so this is taking up all my extra free time. But I'm excited about the move and ready to be settled in. Some things about myself are that I can handle stressful situations while staying calm and I am able to make the most of the situation until a resolution can be found. I look forward to jumping into this course and learning some valuable information. This picture is from the cruise that I went off after I graduated with my fiance Larry. It was a relaxing vacation very much needed.

Michael Bury

Hello everyone my name is Michael Bury and I’m an Adult Medical/Surgical & ICU Step-Down nurse at Duke University Hospital. I have been working at Duke and on this unit for one year. I graduated from Coastal Carolina Community College with my ADN in 2009. My professional goals are something that has really taken into motion considerably in the last 7 days. First of all I obviously want to obtain my BSN and plan to complete this program in 2012. Currently I’ve been pursuing a position in the Adult Medical ICU or CTICU. After I finish my BSN I plan on joining the Navy and would like to do critical care transport/rescue with the Marine helicopter pilots. Within my first four years in the Navy I would like to begin pursuing my MSN in education and obtain a teaching position at Coastal Carolina Community College, UNCW, or Cape Fear Community College. Last August I got married and moved to Chapel Hill. My wife is currently in her 2nd of 4 years of Pharmacy school at UNC. I recently tore my achillies tendon and still have been rehabbing it, but prior to that I enjoyed playing basketball, running, and surfing when I was on the coast. I am not too concerned with returning to school since it has not been long since I graduated and over the summer I took 2 online classes to enter this program.

Sonja Hilburn

Hello my name is Sonja Hilburn. I am 34 years old married with 2 children Kinley 4, and Weston 2. I graduated my LPN at Bladen Community College in 2001 and ADN at Southeastern Community College in 2004. I currently work at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in the Emergency Services department. 3 days a week I work in the Cardiac Decision Unit where we perform a variety of stress test. I am completing my BSN as a stepping stone to oneday complete my FNP.I live in Bladenboro and am very passionate about horses. I enjoy showing and breeding quarter horses.

Maria McPherson

Hello,

My name is Maria McPherson and sorry for the delayed responses. I just got all registered and in the course. I'm sooo excited. I've been a registered nurse for 10 years and have worked many different roles in nursing. When I began my career I worked for 5 years on a surgical unit, a year and a half in quality/case management and for the last 3 and a half years I have been the Nursing Informatics Analyst at Columbus Regional Healthcare System. I love my current job! My goals are to obtain my BSN and then my informatics certification. My career path has become the joy of my life, even if it is stressful. I take everything the nurses and doctors do at our facility and convert it to an electronic version so that we can achieve a complete electronic health record. I'm also a full time mother with 8 year old twins. I have a boy and a girl so it's the best of both worlds. I do however spend as much time doing things for them as I do at work; so in the middle of all that I working on my course work. Woo, it makes me tired just thinking about it. I look forward to this course and working with each and everyone of you. :)

Michelle Spiccioli

Hello, My name is Michelle Spiccioli and I am just beginning the RN to BSN program this semester. I am excited to continue by education and work to become the best healthcare provider I can be. I currently live in Wilmington NC and I work at Wilmington Health and Rehabilitation Center. This is my first job as an RN since I graduated and so far I enjoy long-term health. However, I definitely think I am ready for something a little bit more challenging. I honestly enjoyed mostly all areas of nursing I experienced during clinicals and would love to get experience wherever I can.

I graduated in May 2009 from Penn State University with my Associates degree, and after finishing my BSN, I hope to continue on to get my Masters and become a Nurse Practitioner, specializing in women's health. Maybe even take a break from school and do some traveling nursing!

I moved to Wilmington a year ago with my cousin from Pennsylvania. I was ready for a change and to get out of that cold! I absolutely love it here, though being away from all my family is hard sometimes, but the beach makes everything better!

Priscilla Caprio

Hello, I am Priscilla Caprio, I work in the ICU at OMH. I am a new grad. I have 3 children they are 5, 4 & 3. I quilt and make bags. I have decided to continue to go to school while I have the energy. I was a Corpsman for 5 years before so I have experience. My goals are very simple, I would like to get through this semester and my long term goal would be to graduate in May with my BSN.

Katherine

I have been nervous, too, especially with the technical difficulties of learning UNCW website and lack of confidence with my skills in online learning. Yet, it was comforting to read most of us are facing similar challenges.

Most of my life has been focused on my family. My husband and I will celebrate 30 years of marriage on our next anniversary. My three children are precious to me, but now they are 22, 24, and 26 years old and busy with their lives. So when they began to go to college, my desire to return to school was renewed.
Then, I began to focus on nursing and education. After becoming an RN in 2004, I gained valuable experience in the areas of telemetry and medical-surgery surgical at Southeastern Regional Medical Center (SRMC) and Loris Hospital, SC. Then, I worked with the Mullins School District as a Nurse Home Visitor, under a 3-year federal grant. I was involved in nursing care and preventive care measures for pregnant women and children under the age of 5 years old. The grant was designed to help anyone, regardless of income and insurance, yet targeted for pregnant teens, the undeserved and impoverished community. Over the short time span, I saw positive outcomes and rewards in working with the community, and our youth of tomorrow. Although the grant position ended, my heart desires to again work in this area of nursing.

Recently, I began to work as a float nurse for SRMC again as I continue in my education. I wish I could become a nurse midwife, but the reality is I am soon to be 51 years and I find pursuing education and working challenging now. Yet if I can get my RN-BSN, my goal is to work with the schools in NC, education, or with mothers and children again.

Nicole Kuhn

Hello Everyone! My name is Nicole Kuhn, and I have been a nurse for 5 years. Currently I work as the charge nurse for the Orthopaedic Surgery Department at the Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune. Upon graduating from Nursing School in New Hampshire, I moved to Boston and trained at an Orthopaedic Specialty Hospital, which is where I met my now husband., Michael.

Soon after meeting Michael, I learned that he was on Active Duty for the Navy and he had received orders to Camp Lejeune. At that time, I decided to take on a travel assignment, which led me to Onslow Memorial Hospital and subsequent assignments for one year. I then took the position at the Naval Hospital, where I have remained for the past 3 ½ years.

I live with my husband, dog, and cat in Emerald Isle, NC and adore it! I also have two stepchildren who we visit frequently in Maryland.

This is the first time I have taken an online course and have been an adult learner, so I am definitely experiencing some fears about this life decision. I hope to complete this program and move on to the FNP program. My ultimate goal would be to work in Orthopaedics, probably because this is my comfort zone.

I am really looking forward to working with everyone this semester!

Wanda Treto

My name is Wanda Treto and I work in the NICU at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, in Wilmington, NC. I graduated from CFCC in 2008 and have been working as a RN for 2 years. I previously have a year experience in Medical/Surgical Nursing prior to NICU. I am enrolled in the BSN program full-time. I plan to enroll in the MSN program for Family Nurse Practitioner in the next few years. Continuing my education will allow me to have different job opportunities and be a little closer to becoming a FNP.

I was born and raised in Burgaw, NC and still currently live there. I am married to my husband Tony and we have 3 children. I have two very active boys who are 11 & 12, and a sweet little girl who is 6yrs old. They keep me very busy, so I am going to have to work extra hard this semester! I enjoy watching my kids play sports, shopping, and photography. I look forward to working with everyone this semester!

Gretchen Hartman

Hello! My name is Gretchen Hartman (soon-to-be Gretchen Willis). I am a new graduate RN as of May of this year. I am currently working with children in a PRTF, but I will be beginning a new job working with the elderly at Wilmington Health & Rehab in a few weeks. In my spare time, I enjoy running & reading. I am also getting married in October, so I am very into wedding planning. My fiance's name is Trey. We have a beagle/lab mix named Lola and a calico cat named Bella.

I'm a bit nervous about returning to school while working full-time, wedding planning, and beginning a new job. However, I am very excited simultaneously!

Anita Aviles

Hi everyone. My name is Anita Aviles. I am in my first year of RN-BSN. I am currently taking full time courses. First time taking online courses, and I am a little overwhelmed, but maybe it will not be that bad. I have been a nurse for 3years now. Graduated from Sampson Community College in 2007 from Clinton NC. I am currently working one full time job in Dunn hospital in a Medsurge floor, and a part time job in the hospital in Smithfield NC. I really enjoy it, but I am ready for a new experience. I am hoping to proceed with my studies so that one day I can become a FNP. I have two children, a husband, four dogs, two fish, a goat and some chickens. I almost have a whole farm, but they make the house come alive. Anyways, I want to wish good luck to everyone, and I know that with some good effort, we can get through this.

Lesslie Overton

My name is Lesslie Overton, I am originally from right here in Wilmington. I graduated from East Carolina University in 2002 with a BA in Psychology. After graduation, I decided I did not wish to pursue my masters in psychology and made the decision to go back to school for nursing. I graduated from Coastal Carolina CC in 2007 with my ADN. Since then I have been employed with New Hanover Health Network at Cape Fear Hospital. Cape Fear is primarily an Orthopedic hospital, although I do see some medical patients. It has been a valuable learning experience working there, and my coworkers have taught me a lot.

In my spare time I enjoy going to the beach or just being by the water in general. I am just recently engaged and plan to get married next fall. I do not have any children, but one very spoiled cat who may think he is a child. I adopted him while I was in school for my ADN, and he found it to be a hobby of his to sit right on top of my textbooks while I was trying to study. I am very lucky to have my family only about 10 minutes away from me.

My reasons for returning to school are to further my nursing education and hopefully one day return for my masters in nursing. I am undecided on which specialty or concentration to go towards, but in the meantime, I decided to go ahead and get to process started. I have some interest in Nursing Education and maybe teach students or become the hospital educator for employees.

Sandra Queen

Hello All!! My name is Sandra Queen and I am writing to you from my hotel room in beautiful Orland Florida where I am in the middle of my family vacation to Disney World!!!. I am the mother of 7 children 5 boys, and 2 girls, (14-24) and the grandmother of 2, one boy and one girl (4 & 2). 5 of my children are adopted and my family is the opitomy of the words "cultural diversity." I am married to a retired US Marine and have been for the last 23 years which is what brought me to North Carolina. I am originally from California, but have lived all over the country while I was in the Navy myself as well as the years I spent with my husband. I spent my first 8 years after my time in the Navy staying home and taking care of my children, some whom have special needs, then spent the next 6 teahcing Health Promotion to the Marines at MCAS Cherry Point, in Havelock, NC, which is where I call home. When most of my chidren were in school, I decided to go back to college, and after struggling over a few very difficult hurdles, I recieved my ADN, and began orienting to the operating room at Carolina East Medical Center, in New Bern, NC. After 6 months, I tool over a charge position, and shortly after that, I decided that I wanted to continue my education, earn my BSN, and then continue on to Anesthesia school. I love my job, and am very happy in the OR, but I am the kind of person who has to keep moving forward!!

I am currently enrolled full time in the RN/BSN program and am hoping to complete the program this year! I am really looking forward to working with you all and will appreciate any advice those of you who have been in the program for a while can give me.

Shernika Cobbs

Hi everyone, my name is Shernika Cobbs. Most people call me Ann. I have been a nurse for 10 years. I have always and currently am working on a Med-Surg Unit, which I enjoy greatly. I love bedside care. My unit has experienced a little of it all, working with: Nephrology, Urology, Ortho, Med-Surgical, and overflow of Cardiac. I obtained my Med-Surg Certification in 2009. Obtaining my BSN is more of a personal goal than professional at this time. I currently work full-time and I am a full-time student, anticipating completing my BSN in one year. I wish everyone the best of luck and I look forward to this challenge.

Audrey Cox

My name is Audrey L. Cox and I am forty nine years old. I am married to a wonderful man who happens to be my best friend, his name is Michael and he is the Fire Chief of Lumberton Fire Department. We have three sons, Corey – 26 years old who is married to a wonderful lady name Kristen. They have a three year old son name Gabriel. Adam – 25 years old, and Jeremy – just had his 25th birthday. “That’s right we are a blended family”. Yes, I am also a Nana! I have a beautiful grandson, blond hair and blue eyes and he brings such joy to our family. He is such precious child and full of life.

I graduated from Southeastern Community College in 2007 with an Associate Degree in Nursing. I had always had a dream to pursue a profession where I could provide care, support, education and compassion to others, thereby leading to the path of Nursing. I have always wanted to obtain a four year degree and I have finally begun my journey. Education is on-going and beneficial for so many reasons. Continuing my education will increase my professional growth as a nurse as well as my marketability and level of expertise as a professional nurse. After I graduate with a BSN I plan to pursue my Masters in Nursing Education or Nursing Informatics.

I currently work at Southeastern Regional Medical Center as a Clinical Application Analyst. I have been with the hospital for twenty years. My primary job duties involve planning, building, implementation, education and on-going support of the clinical applications i.e., electronic charting, E-MARS, used by the RNs, LPNs, NAs, CC and MDs at Southeastern Regional Medical Center. I enjoy good music, literature, outdoors, exercise, new experiences, traveling and family time.

Heather Smith

Hello, my name is Heather Smith. I work at NHRMC Behavioral Health Hospital formally known as the Oaks. I began working in psych as a new grad after graduating from BCC in 2008. I recently just accepted the position of coordinator. I have a wonderful husband of 8 yrs. A 6yr old that will start the 1st grade this week and am a full time student. My goal is to graduate in the spring and begin working on my masters next fall. I am nervous about taking 17 hrs and juggling a new full time position and and family. But with faith, family and support I believe I will achieve. I look forward to mtg everyone thru online conversations. I hope everyone a great semester

Sara Gassaway

Hello everybody! My name is Sara Gassaway and I'm hoping I haven't bitten off more than I can chew by taking the program full-time! I am a full-time Cardiac Cath Lab RN with call at Cape Fear and am taking a co-req (statistics) at a local community college. All this while I'm a military wife (who's husband is extremely supportive) and mother to a 15 month old girl and almost 3 year old boy. We're also trying to sale our house because we have orders to Germany next year, which is why I have to take the program full time!

I graduated from Wake Technical Community College in 2006 and started in the ER. I recently left the ER (I was working with Jenny Keys, a fellow classmate). I have found the Cath Lab to be a wonderful change from the ER (no stumped toes in the cath lab!) My long term plan is to obtain my BSN while in the Cath Lab and after school get into the ICU. After I feel confident that I have learned enough from the ICU I intend to go back to school for my CRNA.

My satisfaction in nursing comes when taking care of critically ill patients. I thrive when I know that they have one foot in the grave and the other on a banana peel. In addition, I also feel very fortunate to be able to explain, educate and comfort the family members of my critically ill patient.

Gwen Baldwin

My name is Gwen Baldwin. I have two beautiful children, Cheyenne is 14 and CJ is 4. I have been a registered nurse for ten years. I graduated from Southeastern Community College in 2000. I currently work as a part time instructor at Robeson Community College. I am very excited about being back in school. My long term goals are to complete the BSN program in May and start a masters program in August of 2011. I am really undecided in regard to what masters program I will be attending, but I am leaning more towards a Masters in Education. I wish everyone the best of luck in the journey that we have ahead.

Samantha Wayne

Hello! My name is Sam and I am a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at NHRMC. I graduated from Cape Fear Communtiy College in May 2009 and have been working as an RN there ever since. I am not married and have no children. My spare time is spent with my boyfriend Noah and all of our wonderful friends either at the beach or during dinner and drinks. I love to travel and have visited a multitude of places all over the world! My feelings about returning to school, initially, were that I must be crazy. After the initial shock when all the dust in my brain settled, I felt empowered and motivated. I just want to be the best I can at what I love to do.

I was born in Kansas City, MO and my family moved to Dallas, TX at 4. At 8 my family moved to Raleigh, NC and that is where I grew up. I played soccer and danced my entire life straight through high school.

Anna Whitby

Hello there! My name is Anna Whitby and this is my first semester of the RN-BSN program. I am a recently graduated nurse at Coastal Carolina Community College in Jacksonville,NC. I decided just to go ahead and finish through while I had the time and resources to; otherwise, who knows when I would go back to school! It seems like I’ve been going my whole life! I am divorced with two children, my son is five and my daughter is four. They are truly my motivation! I plan to do my courses full time. I am still job searching…used to work in Labor and Delivery / Postpartum as an LPN and surgical technician but want to do something different -like work with children. I truly believe that through God, all things are possible and it has been a blessing to make it this far! I would eventually like to open my own practice in the future, but am taking it one step at a time! I’m excited and nervous all at once and hope that this semester goes smoothly! It’s great meeting you. Take care and Godbless~

Tina Jessup

Hi! My name is Tina Jessup. I am a nurse at NHRMC in the CCU. My specialty is hearts, and I love working with heart patients, unfortunately our unit is so big we get quite a bit of medical icu patients. I am married with one child a little boy, Cooper who is 21 months old, with one on the way due in 21/2 weeks. In my spare time, well I don't really don't have a lot of that right now. I work on Saturdays and Sundays, and am with my little boy the rest of the week. So most of my spare time is doing things with him, whether it's going swimming , going to the aquarium, music classes, art classes, or just going to the park. We stay very busy. My husband is amazing with our son as well always taking him places and doing things with him on the weekends while I am at work.

My personal feelings about returning to school are mixed. It is such a busy time in our lives right now, but I am also not getting any younger. I am very nervous about balancing school, a baby, a toddler, my husband, and all the other everyday life occurrences. I have a very strong faith in God and know that He will help me get through this. My ultimate goal is to become a NP but not really sure in what area. I look forward to growing and learning with all of you, and wish everyone the best of luck.

Kristi Cannon

Hi! I am Kristi Cannon. I have been a nurse for 15 years. I live in Brunswick County,NC and work as a home health nurse. I am a native of Brunswick County, so I feel at home seeing many of my patients, as several of them have known me since I was born. I love working with home health/hospice patients and their families. I also work PRN on the Med-Surg floor at Brunswick Community Hospital because I enjoy the acute care setting also. I am married and have 3 children, a 19 year old daughter who is in the LPN program at BCC, a 17 year old son who is a high school junior and a 10 year old son in the fifth grade. I am nervous about returning to school because I'm not too swift with the computers.

Holly Thompson

Hi! My name is Holly Thompson and I have been a nurse since 2003 where I graduated from Robeson Community College in Lumberton, NC. Since that time, I have worked on a Telemetry Unit at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, worked as a staff nurse, Continuous Quality Improvement Nurse and a Patient Care Coordinator at a private Hospice agency in Lumberton, and now I am currently a Documentation Specialist Nurse at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton.

I have a wonderful four year old son who keeps me on my toes! In our spare time, we love going to the beach, lake or pool when weather permits. We also enjoy riding four-wheelers and spending time outdoors when it is not too hot. Whatever sounds fun, we like to try it! I find a lot of enjoyment in traveling and shopping!

It is my intention to obtain my BSN from UNCW, as this is a personal goal of achievement. My college experience started at UNCW right out of high school and I would like to finish where I started. I am also looking to further my education for career advancement. With no sure goal in sight beyond a BSN, I am taking things day by day. I hope that this class will help me advance my nursing knowledge and aid in an easy transition into the other nursing courses to come. I feel we learn new things everyday and I hope this class will broaden my knowledge even more. Since computers are not my specialty, I am very nervous about taking these courses online. I hope that I am successful in this class as I sure it will be a learning experience for me. I look forward to learning with all of you!

Terry Hayes

I am Terry Hayes, formerly known as Therese Hayes. I work for Brown Mackie College, teaching PN students (for last 3 years) and love it. My passion in nursing is teaching, so I have had many roles as a teacher, including hospice, homecare, school nurse, visiting nurse on military base, pre and post op nurse in eye clinic, starting of the tobacco education program(in 1996) and facilitator for ADHD group (in Yuma, AZ for 6 years). Spare time before starting school included camping, gardening, and computer puzzles. I am married to a football jock, while I, myself, do not really enjoy sports. I have grown children, and 5 grandchildren (ranging from 13 years to 5 years of age). After receiving my ASN from UNCW in 1981, I had no intention of getting my Bachelors degree. But in 2003, I got a BA in psychology. Because teaching nursing students require instructors with an MSN, I am now pursuing my BSN, then MSN in education. The timeline makes this next year rather fast paced, and I am anxious about 5 classes, full time work and keeping sane. Since we use online resources for our students, I feel comfortable with online classes. The one piece that I have dreaded (since kindergarten) is writing. But I am determined to succeed, so here I go. With support from Heavenly Father, my husband, children and best friend, I can do this.

I love humor in learning. I am determined to succeed, and will continue to teach until I can no longer talk.

Allison Bounds

My name is Allison Bounds. I am a nurse at Southeastern Regional Medical center in the Emergency Department and the ED's Express Amit unit. I have been a nurse since last June 2009. I graduated from Richmond Community College in Hamlet North Carolina. I decided to get my BSN degree because I have so many classes already towards my BSN from when I was a student at UNC-Pembroke. Also, I plan to continue my education and get my Masters degree, I am still unsure what area of nursing I will choose to get my Masters in. I am 26 and single. I have no children, but I have 4 nieces and nephew. I stay busy with them. They range from 12 months to 10 years old. I have a great dad and mom. I love to read and go to the movies. Most of all I love to spend time with my family.

I hope that by going back to school I gain skills and knowledge to further my nursing career. In the future I hope to work with patients at a cancer and/or hospice.

Janna Wojtech

Hi everyone! My name is Janna Wojtech. I graduated from Cape Fear CC May of this year. I decided to take this summer off after completing nursing school and not rush into getting a nursing job. I have been working as a nanny for three small children. I have recently started the search for a nursing job so please keep your fingers crossed that I find something soon! I am not married, no kids- although I have a toy Pomeranian that I consider my little baby. I’m nervous about taking classes online but I am looking forward to getting to know all of you!

Ann Pratt

My name is Ann Pratt. I look forward to furthering my education with all of you, and am excited to learn from all of your experiences in the nursing field. This past May I graduated from an ADN program in Twenty-nine Palms, CA. Two weeks after graduation my husband, 6 year old daughter, two dogs, cat, frog, and I took a road trip to Jacksonville, NC. My husband is in the military, so we are used to moving. My summer has been spent taking the NCLEX Kaplan course, studying, setting up our new house, and applying for jobs. Prior to nursing school I served four years in the military as a musician. My only nursing experience was in nursing school. I spent several weeks at the end of my ADN program following a RN preceptor in the emergency room at the Naval Hospital 29 Palms. The emergency room is my favorite specialty area. I would love to work in the emergency room right out of school but I am currently applying to med-surg positions in hopes to solidify my assessment skills and patient care so I can feel confident in the acute care setting. I look forward to taking this class as well as for other nursing classes this fall.

Michael Jones

Hi! My name is Michael Jones. I work at Cape Fear Hospital on the 2nd floor. The floor is divided up into two parts; the Orthopedic and the medical. I am fortunate enough to be able to work both groups of patients any given week. I am currently working on my BSN here at UNCW. I am very excited about starting the program however I am a little nervous about the "on-line" part of it all. I am not computer savy! My evental end goal is to become a FNP. In my spare time I enjoy doing theater and reading as well as being a movie buff.

Hope Shuping

Hey Everyone, I am Hope Shuping. I just graduated from the ADN program at Southeastern Community College in May and passed boards in June. I am currently working at Premier Living and Rehab at lake Waccamaw which is a long term care facility. I want to eventaully work in labor and delivery or be a nurse manager but I am sure that may change I as continue in my education process. I am 23 years old. I am engaged and plan to get married in the fall of next year. I am unsure about how this semester will go but I hope everything goes well.

Hope

Brittney Callahan

Hello everyone, My name is Brittney Callahan. I just graduated from SCC's ADN program in May 2010. I have been working at Loris Community Hospital on the medical/pediatric floor since June. I have been married for 4 years to my wonderful husband and we have a beautiful 9 month old baby girl. I am only going to be working part time during the BSN program so that I can focus on my family and school but still be getting nursing experience. I struggle with time management skills and look forward to learning how to better manage my time so that I and my family can benefit. Look forward to learning with everyone and good luck in all of your courses.

Heather Dufresne

My name is Heather Dufresne and that is my 10 year old son Hunter in the photo with me. I am a single mother and love the beach and traveling. I am a cardiac nurse at NHRMC. I am originally from Vermont where I graduated from Nursing School in 1999. My son and I are headed to Central America on September 30th to hike, swim, and learn about their culture.

Tammy Marquez

Hello everyone! My name is Tammy Marquez and I currently work on the surgical floor at Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville. I hope hoping to eventually transition into critical care, either in an ED or a surgical/trauma ICU. I am also hoping to become an acute care nurse practitioner at some point, most likely after a long break from school. I just graduated from Coastal Carolina Community College in May. I decided to continue with my nursing education right away while I am still motivated and still in school mode. I'm a little nervous about working full time and going to school full time during my first year as a nurse, but I'm determined to make it work. When I'm not working or doing homework I enjoy reading, kayaking, and spending time with my husband and our three dogs. I'm looking forward to a great semester!

Heather Bates

Hello to all, my name is Heather Bates and I am a full-time single mother of 2 (15yo girl and 11yo boy) whom I owe my current profession to. Being a single mother since my son was 5months old, I worked many hours in jobs ranging from clerical to being a deputy sheriff, but time with my children was always rare and precious. The time we spent together was often sleeping, getting homework done, or trying to eat. My path started since both my children have a knack for the strange, unusual, but generally overdone trips to the ER, my son was diagnosed with Factor 7 by our own FNP, and my father's begging of "can't you find something to do besides tote a gun" I decided to join the FNP path. I never had a desire to be a nurse but I also knew the shortage of pediatric hemotologist in the area so I started school to the ill delight of both my children. They enjoyed being able to spend time with me at night, however they hated the constant nagging of I am doing my homework so why are you not doing yours. I graduated from Brunswick Community College in 2008 with my ADN, started working 40 miles from home only because I enjoyed the hospital (i live 10 miles from another hospital) and have worked on a pediatric, psychiatric, medical floor as well as a surgical/ tele floor, which is where I am currently working. I enjoy the pace of the surgical floor and as some say a glutton for punishment. I intend to complete this step on my travels in 1 year, work full time and part-time, survive my daughter's 16th birthday, and keep all my hair on my head while doing it. I have faith that God had a plan for me when he set me on this journey and I have no intentions of failing him. I plan on one day opening my own practice with my mother as my LPN (she is 54 and has just started her lifelong goal of becoming a nurse). Good Luck to all and remember to keep your head high.

Amy Williamson

Hello my name is Amy Williamson I have been a RN for 7 years and CEN for 5 years now. I have worked in the ER at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, NC since I graduated from Southeastern Community College in 2003. I have a very supportive husband and 13 year old daughter. I plan to complete this BSN program and then on MSN and FNP.

I am nervous about being in this class having to talk to everyone because I am a country girl and not so good with words. The classes I have been taking online are Algebra, Chemistry, Microbiology, and Spanish so I haven’t had many discussion boards.

Lacy

Hello, my name is Lacy LaBrier. I work in the ED at Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville. I have been a nurse for a little over one year. I am interested in specializing and obtaining an advanced degree in obstetrics.

To be honest, returning to school so soon has been a difficult decision. I am motivated to put myself in a position for flexibility and success in my future. Nursing advances so fast, I have to continue educating myself, to remain a knowledgeable caregiver and superior choice for employment.

I grew up in FL, then moved to NC by way of marriage to the military. I made the decision to stay here after my service term, to advance my career and education. I look forward to traveling and finding a new state of residency somewhere the snow sticks. In my free time, I use my cross-trainer, get in touch with my inner artist (paint, take photographs, or decorate) and shop.

Candice Core

My name is Candice Core and I have been an RN for 6 years. I currently work at Johnston Medical Center in Smithfield in the cardiac cath lab. I have also worked on medical-surgical units, endoscopy, and intensive care. I am excited about starting back to school because it is one step closer to obtain my master's degree. I am leaning towards an interest in Family Nurse Practitioner. I am a little nervous about taking online classes but I have taken them before and I know that we can all make it through these classes. I am eager to obtain my BSN and also to learn some new things through this class as well as others. I am married and have no children, but I do have a cat who I consider my child. I enjoy spending time at the beach, working outside, and reading in my spare time. I look forward to getting to know everyone and hope every one has a great semester.

Chantelle Guthrie

My name is Chantelle Guthrie and I currently work as a RN in the NICU at NHRMC. I graduated last year with my ADN and was a social worker for 10 years prior to going to nursing school. I am currently completing online coursework to be certified as a sexual assault nurse examiner. My long term goal is to complete a FNP program and become certified as a pediatric sexual assault examiner. I am married with 1 cat and my husband is currently deployed with the Army reserves in Afghanistan. My goal in this course and in the completion of this BSN program is to advance my knowledge base of nursing theory and practice. I think that continued education provides critical thinking skills and updated information on disease processes, treatment methods, and research. I also feel that continuing nursing education will better prepare me to provide optimal nursing care to patients. I have to admit that I am nervous about my ability to handle work and online classwork at the same time but I am going to try very hard to stay optimistic!

Crystal Taveras.

My name is Crystal Taveras. I have been an RN for 2yrs. I currently work in NICU and absolutely love it. I am very excited to be starting this program, this will be my first online program so I am a little nervous about it. My future goal is go on and get my Neonatal NP.

I am a military wife and have a little girl who is turning one in a couple weeks.

Susan Thompson

Hi. My name is Susan Thompson. This is my first semester at UNC-W. I am a full-time student and I also work at Scotland Memorial Hospital in Laurinburg NC. I am married and we have 3 kids. They are 17, 11 and 6. I am looking forward to us learning together. Best wishes to everyone.

Steven Walters

Hello everyone,

My name is Steven Walters. I 26, graduated from RCC with an associated degree in May of 2009. I worked on a Telemetry unit from July-December and since December I have been working in the Intensive Care Unit. I hope to get my BSN through UNCW successfully and one day go on to a masters program, preferably an Anesthesia program.

I used to teach Chemistry labs at NCSU and enjoyed that a lot. It is through teaching that I learned that I wanted to help people. Nursing was a good combination of hands on skill and the helping people and teaching that I had used in the past. I am single and without child at this point in my life. I enjoy the job I have now and look forward to what this program brings that can help me with my career. Good luck to everyone!

Randi Ducker

Originally posted on August 19

Hello everyone, my name is Randi Ducker and I am a new graduate from the RN program at Sampson Community College. I am currently working on the labor and delivery unit at a local hospital and I love my job. Although I am extremely nervous about managing online courses and a full time job. I look forward to working with and getting to know everyone.

Here is a little bit about myself: I am not married, and I do not have any children. I do, however, have two dogs that are just as spoiled as any child could ever be. I am a Christian, and that defines a lot about the person that I am today. God and I both know that I wouldn't be where I am today without him. My family and friends are also a very important part of my life and I don't know what I would do without them. Something interesting about me is that I go once a year and search for baby fawns that have recently been born and assess them to assist in whitetail deer research that my boyfriend is involved in. I would put a picture of them up here but apparently I am not that good with this technology yet and I cannot get it to work!

Janice Bennett

Originally posted on August 18

Hi, my name is Janice Bennett.

I have been a registered nurse for 12 years. I work full time in an oncology outpatient infusion clinic. I am married and have 2 children, a daughter that is 17 and a son that is 10.

I am nervous about managing work, school, and family, but I am excited about obtaining a BSN and plan to pursue a MSN. I am very thankful of the 100% online option!

Ready to get started.

Message from Debbie Banks

Hi to all, I am Debbie Banks and I actually plan to do most of my work for this course in the classroom at CCCC. I was sick and missed the first class so I am going through the first module with all of you and have really enjoyed reading your postings. I have been an RN and married for 34 years. Two huge accomplishments in one year. I graduated from one of the Diploma schools, so there were no college credits for us. Great education though. I just spent the last 4 years getting my AA degree at CCCC and have finally reached the University level. I have worked at Carolina East Medical Center in New Bern for the last 25 years and the last 22 years in the ICU. What a ride it has been. I look forward to the next 2 years of school and the reward and opportunities at the end of that journey. I have great support of 4 brothers, 1 sister and their families, Mom and Dad, my husband, son age 29 and daughter age 27 and their families which include 3 absolutely awsome grandchildren, ages 4,3 and 1. I am truely blessed. What makes me nervous? All this new technology and being able to keep up. You all sound like a great group to be partnered with. Good luck to us all.

Message from Sara Davis Valasek

My name is Sara Davis Valasek. I just graduated in May from CFCC with my ADN. I work on the 9th floor of NHRMC, which is cardiac med/surg telemetry unit. I am working on the surgical side of the floor. I have just started but I really love it. In my spare time I like to work in my yard with my husband, go boating and play with our 4 dogs. I am originally from Pittsburgh, PA but believe I will remain in the Wilmington area for the rest of my life - I love it here. I have a degree in Biology from Penn State University, so this will be my second Bachelor's degree. I feel like a Bachelor's in Nursing will open more opportunities for me. I am pretty sure I will go on to earn my Master's degree - but I am not sure what area yet. I am really excited that this program in 100% online as it will making working and going to school a lot easier. I look forward to working with all of you.

Message from Mary Batson

Hi, my name is Mary Batson, probably the one who's been around the longest of us all! My nursing experience has been mostly in labor and delivery, a place I never dreamed of being a part of for 30 years. (But mostly part-time: 7 children) My original love was pediatrics, but the spot available to me was rotating maternal child health units until I was asked to take an unusual opening in L+D because it was thought I had the potential for being a positive influence for the big changes beginning to happen in OB. My first experiences in OB were unbelievably medical. LOTS of forceps deliveries, lots of anesthetized mothers, total separation of mothers, babies and husbands during the birthing process.It was natural for me to fall into teaching childbirth classes, especially since I was a "naturalist" at heart and was beginning my own family and willing to pioneer for normal birth.It's been an exciting place to be a part of, especially when you can have some direct influence through the teaching. I currently work in L+D, teach classes for the Health Department every month, and teach privately as well. I LOVE mothers and babies.I love a lot of things- most especially God and my family.We live in Carolina Beach, where my husband grew up and where he and almost all of our children are involved in some aspect of being on the water- boating, fishing, diving. My fun thing right now is the kayak. The boys make fun of me because they see so many of them in the water getting in the way of the bigger boats. I like it because there's no motor, no upkeep, easy come and go, good exercise, and something I can do alone if I want. We're all outdoorsy, so being on the computer for 14 hrs of credit will be a huge accomplishment this semester. Why return to school? I guess because it stays in my mind and I know I can achieve more in nursing. If it wasn't for the family priorities, I would have done this long ago. A BSN will give me the confidence that I went the extra mile in nursing to gain skills and confidence in my field. I truly believe in the evidence based research for best practice and already see much of it in these courses we are taking. Hospitals are hugely challenged by this latest ideal that gives practitioners such power for standards and change. I'm excited and proud to be a part of a field that is making difference in the lives of people, and thankful UNCW nursing school is proactive in this way.

Message from Susie Jenkins

My name is Susie Jenkins and I have been a Registered Nurse for 13 years. I was a LPN for 5 years before deciding to pursue my nursing career. I currently work full-time as a Health Occupations teacher at Southwest High School. I’ve been teaching for 5 years now. I love teaching more than anything else. I also work two Saturday’s a month at Onslow Memorial Hospital, in the nursery. I really don’t have a clinical specialty. I’ve worked in many different areas like, nursery, post-partum, labor and delivery, emergency department, operating room, cardiology, pediatrics, Onslow Home Health Services, Britthaven of Onslow and the Onslow County Health Department as a Child Care Health Consultant. In my spare time I watch COPS and CSI with my daughter, improve PowerPoint’s for my Health Occupations classes, travel, watch my son play football, and read my bible. I’m remarried with a 16 years old, daughter and an 11 years old, son. We are currently attempting IVF on 9-18-09. I’m very excited about school and I hope we can all encourage each other. My goal is to complete my BSN and then move on towards masters in education. I think teaching 25 students with different and unique personally, is pretty creative.