Interview with Deb Horvath, RN. about her experience in the online RN to MSN degree program
Interview by Sherry Jones Mayo, RN, EMTP, DAAETS
Author of Confessions of a Trauma Junkie: My Life as a Nurse Paramedic
Contributing writer to LPN to RN Online
Non-traditional students used to be older folks who had already raised their children and "empty-nested" their way back into school. Today the non-traditional student is often one who is in the work force and chooses to take the next step in a path toward career and educational advancement. Standing still can mean losing ground professionally; if you are not moving forward, you may fall behind.
Deb Horvath was an LPN 15 years ago who quickly moved into an ADN program and worked most of her career in a busy Detroit Trauma Center Emergency Department. Contemplating an ADN to MSN program (specializing in Informatics), Deb considered her options.
"My choice to continue my education was influenced by a diploma nurse who has been practicing for over 35 years. As she enters what should be the 'best' years of her career, she stands in fear because her educational level is not enough to allow her to continue to be an educator." Deb's resolution to take action on goals caused her "to make decisions that would allow me to have autonomy and the ability to make decisions for myself in the later stages of my career."
Not that her later years are coming any time soon: Deb is 40. Watching the changing nursing environment, and academically stalled in her current management level position prompted contemplation: life happens even without a plan. Goals become dreams, and time passes. Deb took control and enrolled in an online ADN to MSN program.
"Initial thoughts surrounding advancing my degree were influenced by the threat of disbanding ADN programs, and encouraging BSN as an entry level for all nursing positions. Additionally, I lacked technological skills and felt that if I did not get up to speed I would become obsolete. A further note that influenced my decision is the ever-increasing workload in nursing, as well as is the mean age of our profession. Continuing my education would further my options… and allow me to be an innovative leader that could assist the next generation of nurses."
Critically thinking through the rationale for advancing one's education can provide clarity, effectively overcoming doubts or fears.
"All nurses want more autonomy but without education they do not know what to do with it. The chasm between those holding associate degrees and those with doctorate degrees causes communication issues, such as those experienced between nurses and physicians. This also feeds the machine of oppression that nurses experience."
"The personal benefit of transitioning to a higher degree is the gratification of being an advocate for my profession. How else can nursing rise up through the ranks without continued education? How else can nursing become advocates for health care without showing our presence in the field through research and evidence-based practice?"
Want FREE information about the Online RN to MSN program that has nurses talking?
Evidence supports Deb's position. Without advanced degrees, the LPN, ADN, and BSN are limited in their advancement potential. Many nurses who consider furthering their education seek out experienced nurses for a mentoring relationship.
"Without mentoring, nurses cannot create those connections with colleagues so desperately needed when the road gets rough. A long history of 'nurses eating their young' can be abolished through confidence in nursing practice which comes with higher education."
As Deb moves from the mentee to mentor role, she is more adamant about nurses of any age proactively taking charge of their professional outcomes through education.
"The face of nursing is changing as rapidly as any other field, so we have to keep up with technological changes, and set a path for our profession that incorporates advanced degree nurses. Money, influence, better pay, and incentives may be the objective; however, the bigger picture is the change to our healthcare system that needs to take place. Nurses with advanced degrees have the backing to move into influential positions and make the changes that are appropriate for positive patient outcomes."
Having traveled the traditional brick and mortar classrooms for LPN and ADN, Deb loves the benefits of her online education.
"My program at Walden University is geared toward the working professional. I participate in asynchronous discussions allowing for fluid conversation without feeling as if I have to be in the classroom daily. The knowledge allows me to find ways to assimilate the information to real world situations, and the interactions are professional with those who want to influence change in our profession. The cost is also reasonable, and doing homework in your pajamas is a bonus."
Considering the benefits and challenges of working full-time as an Assistant Clinical Leader for the St. John Hospital-Macomb Emergency Room (Michigan) while attending school full-time, Deb promotes online learning as the only practical choice.
"I have learned that online learning is the educational option of the future. Ease of use, cost containment, the high level of professional interaction, and the exposure to students around the country is simply extraordinary. It can be done in your pajamas just as successfully as if you were traveling to a traditional university. I would not consider a traditional school again because I feel working at the computer affords me a much greater scope of influence. Scholarly integrity is of the utmost importance; this forum is appropriate and has proven to be a phenomenal learning opportunity."
For those who are not ready to jump into the commitment of a full-time program, Deb advises testing the waters.
"Take at least one online class to see how you like the forum, research the online universities and check credentials, chose a school that offers programs that are in line with current job trends, and chose a university that has a mission and vision that aligns with your set of values. Technology thwarted initial thoughts of continuing my education online. After researching several programs, I learned that the program at Walden requires that you successfully complete a training session on how to maneuver through courses before beginning the program."
"What do I say to those considering this transition? Do it now! It is a short-term investment on a long-term goal."
