What motivated you to pursue a career in nursing?- A Perspective from a Nursing Student

My name is Smritilekha Mondal, and I am a final-year student in a GNM nursing program. Recently, I was asked a thought-provoking question that inspired me to share my response with those considering various careers, especially encouraging young people to think of nursing as a viable profession.

What motivated you to pursue a career in nursing? 

As a child, I spent a lot of time in hospitals due to my health. During those difficult moments, I often felt anxious and overwhelmed, but I found comfort in the compassionate care provided by the nursing staff. The way the nurses supported both me and my family during those tough times left a lasting impression on me. Their patience and dedication not only helped me as a patient but also offered solace to my loved ones.

Witnessing firsthand how nurses help patients during their most vulnerable moments inspired me. I observed the joy on patients’ faces when they recovered and left the hospital, and that motivated me to choose nursing as my career.

Here are some key reasons why I believe nursing is an excellent career choice:

➢ Rewarding Nature

➢ Helping Others 

➢ Respected and Trusted Profession  

➢ Job Satisfaction 

➢ Job Security and High Demand 

➢ Professional Growth 

Helping Others

Even from my childhood I wanted to bring a change in my surroundings. I remember the flood in our area during 2013-2014 when many people sought help. I broke my piggy bank to give what I could, but I realized that financial help isn’t always sufficient; I could do much more as a nurse.

Rewarding Nature

During my clinical placement at Apollo Hospital, I witnessed the profound impact of nursing. Seeing patients recover and express their gratitude to the nursing staff was incredibly fulfilling. Their smiles and blessings reminded me of the joy that comes from patient care.

Respected and Trusted Profession  

At the government hospital I frequented, I noticed the respect nurses received from patients. It was striking to see patients turn to nurses with their concerns, sometimes bypassing doctors altogether. This trust highlights the vital role nurses play in healthcare.

Job Satisfaction  

At the end of the day, knowing you’ve positively impacted someone’s life is immensely rewarding. This sense of fulfillment, along with the pride of making my family proud, reinforces my commitment to this career path.

Job Security and High Demand  

Nursing is a profession in high demand, as highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic when nurses were essential in every healthcare setting. The crisis underscored the importance of nurses as the backbone of the healthcare system, emphasizing the urgent need for more qualified nursing professionals.

Professional Growth  

As nurses, we have endless opportunities to learn and grow. Every experience we gain is invaluable for our professional development. Recognizing the continuous demand for nurses allows us to seize opportunities not only as students but also as staff nurses in various healthcare settings.

I wish you all the best in your career choices and hope you consider nursing as a fulfilling and impactful option!