School Nurse
Mrs. Bliss went to undergraduate school at the University of Virginia while majoring in nursing. She then went to University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for her masters in Exercise Physiology & Sport Science. Currently, Bliss works as a school nurse in Texas.
Interview:
What inspired you to become a school nurse, and how did your experiences along the way shape your decision?
Bliss enjoyed working in the healthcare atmosphere and valued having a job that kept her active. During high school, she participated in an internship at a hospital that heavily influenced her decision. She recommends gaining experience wherever possible, as it can provide clarity and direction.
Why did you choose to pursue your undergraduate degree at UVA, and how did that program prepare you for a career in nursing?
At the beginning of college, Bliss’s major was undecided. She chose the University of Virginia (UVA) due to its variety of major options and pathways of study. She moved into nursing after her second year, inspired by conversations with older students who had completed the program. These students reassured her about what she would encounter in clinical and hands-on nursing rotations, helping to build her confidence.
What were High School achievements that helped you gain admission to UVA?
Bliss acknowledges that her grades and test scores played a role in her admission to UVA. However, she also believes the admissions process considered her holistically. She was actively involved in her community, serving on the City Youth Council in Arizona, where she met with the City Council to provide a youth perspective on local issues. Additionally, she volunteered in children’s programming at her local library, earning the “Volunteer of the Year” award in her junior year of high school.
What advice would you give to high school students who are applying to nursing programs and want to stand out in the application process?
Bliss advises students to stay true to themselves during the college application process. She believes it is easier to write or talk about things you are passionate about. She also encourages students to find opportunities to gain experience in the fields they are interested in, as this can make applications stand out.
Looking back, is there anything you wish you had done differently in high school or college that could help students interested in pursuing nursing today?
Bliss worked part-time in a clothing store during high school and college but wishes she had pursued a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification sooner. While she eventually earned her CNA certification in college to work in a medical setting, she believes starting earlier would have provided her with even more valuable experience.
