Admission Essay Example: Appalachian State University

As a prospective nursing major, I can name numerous things that I am optimistic about regarding college and the workforce; yet, I also have some reservations and doubts about nursing. My great grandmother was the first person who captivated my interest in nursing by telling me stories about her experiences during her career. While my great grandmother never truly explained how strenuous nursing is; she never painted nursing as facile, always telling me that it takes an exceptional person to overcome the demanding nature of the profession and succeed as a nurse. While at Appalachian State, I look forward to being able to gain workplace experience that may help answer my questions as well as overcome any qualms I may have in order to be the most successful I can be as a nurse

One of my strengths is that I am a strong-willed individual, and I am never afraid to speak my mind if I feel disrespected, which means I can be obstinate and unyielding at times. Recently, I have begun to wonder if I have the emotional ability to take on the problematic behaviors and vitriolic words that nurses must contend with each day. I know that I will be caring for people who are going through some of the most enervating days of their lives, and treating people with kindness regardless of their behavior is something I strive to do. While I wonder about my ability to have equanimity and grace with my patients, nursing is something that I have always identified with and I am optimistic that I will be able to overcome any challenges relating to it.

Furthermore, as I learn more about the role and responsibilities nurses face, I worry if I will have the mental stamina for the long shifts and disheartening outcomes I will face as a nurse. When it comes to the thoughts and feelings of others I am an extremely sympathetic and understanding person. While I believe that sympathy is one of the most important traits in a nurse, I wonder how having sympathy will impact my mentality as I am simultaneously surrounded by people experiencing heartbreak, triumph, and fear. My overarching goal is to become a neonatal nurse, but I struggle to comprehend how the heartbreaking moments will affect my mentality. As I major in nursing at Appalachian State, one of my goals is to better learn how nurses regulate their emotions in the midst of dismay and success. I also hope to gain experience and understanding about the impact that nursing will have on my mental health. 

Regardless of my concerns about the mental and emotional demands of nursing, I have remained enthusiastic about the chance to overcome these doubts and reach my fullest potential as an honors student at Appalachian State. The Honors College will give me an enriching experience that will challenge me to become a more zealous and insightful learner while also allowing me to be as prepared for the challenges of nursing as possible.