Tell me about yourself:
I am my parents' firstborn, born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where I lived with my mother and sister in a single-room apartment. As far back as I can remember, we were extremely poor, often going days without food. By the time I was 11, we were constantly searching for shelter and our next meal.
My father lived in Chicago, Illinois, and when I learned that I would be leaving Haiti to live with him, I felt both blessed and heartbroken. Despite our struggles, I did not want to leave behind the only family I had ever known. But even at that early age, I told myself this was an opportunity to help my mother escape poverty.
From when I was 11 until I turned 20, I kept my promise to ensure my mother and siblings had food and shelter and went to school. My biggest regret in life is losing her to an unknown illness just before my 21st birthday. I had completed her immigration application and was preparing to bring her to the U.S., but she passed away in April of that year鈥攋ust months before I turned 21 in July. Her death devastated me, and I struggled in the aftermath. However, I made another promise to myself: I would learn everything I could to understand why she died.
Over time, life took its course. After having my first two children, I returned to school to study nursing and earned my associate degree in nursing (ADN) in 2003. I later pursued my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and graduated in 2015.
Today, I am a 53-year-old mother of four, but after my sister passed away in 2004, I also took in and raised my niece, making it five children in total. I am now a proud grandmother as well. My father, who lived to be 94, passed away peacefully in his room at my home in 2023. He had a history of age-related medical conditions, and I was honored to care for him in his final years.
Through every challenge and triumph, my Christian faith has been my guiding force, giving me strength and resilience in my personal and professional life.
What drew you to Salem State?
While searching for a graduate program, I was accepted at River University in New Hampshire. However, I followed my instincts and applied to 春梦直播, and I was accepted. It just felt like the right choice. This decision has proven to be one of the best I have ever made.
What made you decide to start a graduate program?
I sought to advance my nursing career and transition from bedside nursing to an educator role. As a preceptor, I found joy in teaching and mentoring my colleagues. Recognizing my knowledge gaps, I developed a deep desire to explore evidence-based nursing practices. I knew furthering my education was essential to making a meaningful impact in the field. Since graduating in 2003, nursing has evolved significantly, and I realized that while helping my colleagues grow, I also needed growth. I committed myself to gaining the necessary knowledge and comprehension to become a proficient nurse educator with the ability to inspire confidence in those I teach.
What makes your program/department exciting and unique?
Combining my 23 years of nursing experience with the knowledge gained in my nurse educator program has provided me with a unique opportunity to help new nurses succeed. My passion for behavioral health nursing aligns with my educational journey, reinforcing my purpose and calling. If I can positively influence even one nursing student and help them understand the interconnectedness of the art and science of nursing, I will have fulfilled my mission.
What are some highlights of being a student here so far?
One of the greatest highlights of my time at 春梦直播 is the strong sense of community among professors and classmates. I even met my best friend in the program. The learning experience feels personalized, with faculty who are always approachable and supportive. Every professor I have had the privilege of learning from has contributed to my success in this program.
A favorite class or professor you have had and why:
One of my most impactful classes was Advanced Research with Professor Robin Leger. Research was a challenging subject for me during my BSN program, so I decided to take what I anticipated to be the most challenging course first. To my surprise, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Professor Leger鈥檚 step-by-step approach helped me grasp the bigger picture, and her guidance proved invaluable as I now approach my Capstone Presentation.
A club you are part of, your role, and your favorite part about it:
As a single parent working full-time, my schedule did not allow for club participation. However, a proud moment for me was having my two younger children witness my induction into Sigma Theta Tau, a significant personal and professional accomplishment.
What is the best advice you鈥檝e received from a professor?
鈥淵ou are going to be a great nurse educator!鈥 鈥 Professor Robin Leger. At the time, I was unsure of how my journey would unfold, but her belief in me reinforced my confidence and determination.
Anything you enjoy in your free time?
As a born-again Christian, my faith is central to my life. Outside of work and school, I dedicate time to studying the Bible and praying with those seeking spiritual growth. I also cherish moments with my children and granddaughter. Additionally, I find joy in mentoring nursing students during their clinical rotations, particularly as they prepare for graduation. I love to travel, cook, and care for my family in my leisure time.
I am grateful for the opportunity to grow, learn, and serve others through this program and for the support and encouragement I have received throughout this journey. 春梦直播 has been my anchor, second only to God, in helping me to complete my MSN-Ed with Honors.
A special thank you to my family and friends for their patience and unwavering support throughout the years of this journey.