Final Thoughts . . . . .

This is my last posting for this blog. I will be crossing the graduation stage in 9 days. It’s hard to believe that the road I decided to follow 2½ years ago has finally ended. There have been times I thought this point in time would never happen; it’s taking forever to get here; and where did the time go.

I know I won’t miss the administrative side of TWU and the constant frustrations since the beginning. I will dearly miss my classmates and my professors. I will miss bantering with Dr. A. I know that I’ve probably have not been the easy student to deal with but I bet I’ve been one of the more interesting students. ;)

In one of my very first postings in one of your class, I talked about a professor (Dr. Drake) who encourage students to push some of the limits and think outside the box because that is what graduate education is about; discovering of the new and challenging the establish. You agreed, but at that time neither of us dreamt that I would be one of your students for five classes in four semesters. I do believe that my challenges of the establish has probably upset you, but I think is shows my deadication and the significant number of hours spent on just thinking about so many hours thing outside the box". You have remotely had to put up with me going through some rough times, such as my father’s death. I truly appreciate your patience, encouragement, and extension of deadlines.

Although this is an online program, I have developed a lifetime friendship with one of my classmates. In spite of the pressure and madness of balancing families, work, and school, Ginger Hinshaw has become one of my closest and dearest friends. She’s incredible and is teaching now in the undergrad program and in the PhD program. TWU’s quality and reputation will continue to be strong with professors like her. It’s also nice to know that although I’m finishing and beginning a new career, I will be able to stay connected to the CON through her. I know at sometime down the road, I will apply to be at least an adjunct clinical professor.

I do know that I’ve discover so many things about myself that 3 years ago, I would have laugh if someone had been able to foretell the future as to what I’ve learned; how my professional skills have grown; my new passions for nursing research, informatics, and healthcare law; my rejuvenated passion for nursing; and pride in my honed writing and communication skills. Additionally, I’ve determined that my drug of choice is learning and school. I think the only ones disadvantaged by this will be my children. Being strong academically will probably be mandatory for them. But I have made sure that they have well funded Coverdell accounts that should get them both through graduate school!

I’ve also discover a new self esteem, a stronger inner soul, and a professional “peace”. I’ve created papers, presentations, etc. that I am truly proud of. I have survived personal events and tragedy because I found solace in the various requirements of my classes. The source of my professional “peace” is my newfound skills, qualifications, education, and professional security as a nursing educator in spite of the current unstable economical climate.

There is so much more I would like to express in terms of how the Nursing Education Program has completely changed my life in a wonderful and positive direction. Saying thank you is just not enough.