When did you become a nurse and why?

I started off in the medical field as a CNA in 2003, loved what I did but I knew physically and financially it’s not something I wanted to do forever. I decided to go back to school for my LPN and graduated 2006. While that was a great achievement for me at that time, I wanted more, more opportunity, more experience. I went back for my RN and graduated in 2014 with my Associate’s Degree. The hospital I started working at required us to have our BSN within 3 years, so I graduated with my BSN in 2017. I had NO plans on being a nurse when I was younger, my plan was to be a civil engineer. My best friend who I met when I was 19, was a CNA at the time and she inspired me to go into the medical field. So here I am!

What made you go into travel nursing?

Travel nursing was always a dream of mine, even when I was a LPN. Part reason why I furthered my degree so I could travel! I love traveling, seeing new places, meeting new people, opening up my mind to new things. I figured why not be able to do that and get paid at the same time!

What has been your favorite location for travel nursing so far and why?

My favorite place to travel nurse has been Los Angeles so far. I kept extending at one hospital the entire time I was there. First time, one year and the second time, 8 months. I love the city life, I love the people, love the weather. No matter where I venture off to I always seem to migrate back to LA.

What is your favorite thing about travel nursing (the experience, locations, training, etc.)?

My favorite thing about travel nursing is the freedom to choose where I want to be at that time. The fact that I do not get caught up in the politics at the hospitals. If I love working there, I usually have an option to extend. And I always try and leave on good terms so I can go back if I want! I have made some great friendships with people from all different states. No matter where I go, I will always know at least one person in that area.

What advice can you give others who are interested in travel nursing?

DO IT! I have met so many people who tell me ‘i wanted to do that when I was younger but then I got married and had kids’, or ‘now I’m too old’, or ‘I regret not doing travel nursing when I had the chance’. My first assignment I moved across the country (literally, from Florida to California) and was so nervous about it! I had all these doubts and thoughts of ‘what if I hate it, what if I’m lonely, what if?!’ I got homesick and went home once a month probably for the first year and a half. But now I’m free as a bird and only go back home in between assignments and for Christmas holidays! It was the best thing I’ve ever done and I have no regrets!