This week we're featuring Shannon Carlson for #MeetSDStateNursing. Shannon is a student in the online RN to BSN program. We love getting to know our students and appreciate that she shared her story with us.
I started in the medical field in 1993 as a CNA working in a nursing home/assisted living. In 1995 I started working at a Rule 36, which was a group home specialized for SPMI (serious and persistent mentally ill.) From a young age I always new I wanted to be a nurse but working at the Rule 36 sparked my passion for mental health. I was an LPN for 10 years, went back for my RN (associates) and have been an RN for the past 11 years.
In January of 2019 I decided to enroll in the RN to BSN program at SDSU. I was initially worried about enrolling in an online program but things with the RN to BSN program are so organized. Cami, professional academic advisor, is so helpful with any questions and assisting with enrollment in the appropriate classes and all the instructors are easy to connect with, organized with the class instructions and willing to help out any way they can.
This past spring I was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer and the instructors were amazing in supporting me with completing class work around my surgery and chemo treatments. This experience has also helped me relate to patients that I work with as I have been the patient many times for the past six months.
I plan to continue at SDSU in the masters of nursing online program.
The majority of my nursing experience has been in mental health and pediatric home-care. I am currently working at the Calli Institute in Maple Grove, Minnesota and Accurate Home Care with two clients. I have worked with one of my clients for the past 21 years and she has taught me so many things.
I am currently involved in the SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) organization in my hometown, Buffalo Minnesota. This organization holds a special place in my heart as my brother died by suicide two years ago. His death has taught me many things, deepening my passion for mental health.
I would encourage anyone to pursue a career in nursing. The opportunities are limitless and you can find a position in almost any field you are interested in, especially a lot of specialties. The biggest part of being a nurse is the impact your patients will have on you. They will teach you so many things and inspire you in ways you could never imagine. This field reminds you how amazing people are and all the good that is in the world. Thank you for listening to my story.