Career and School Info for RNs (Registered Nurses) in Hawaii

Committed to lifelong learning coupled with a passion for nursing research, has led me to enroll as a full-time student in University of Hawaii's on-line PhD Nursing program.

My graduate degree in nursing from George Mason University helped me understand the role of a nurse educator. I learned effective and ineffective teaching strategies, how to evaluate a syllabus, where to search for evidence-based nursing literature, and the like. Through direct observation, I was modeled what an exemplary nurse educator looks like; one that “teaches” by assisting her students to critically think and construct their own knowledge. She participates in mentoring both in and out of the classroom while showing great respect for her students' unique differences. As a model educator, she demonstrates an interest in learning from her students, including new fangled technologies! Moreover, she engages in scholarly research work both individually and collaboratively. In all, I learned to be an excellent nurse educator.

To learn how to both conduct nursing research and disseminate its findings to the scientific community, I have begun doctoral studies in nursing research. Since I continue to live overseas, University of Hawaii's on-line program is a good fit for me. As a doctoral applicant, I evaluated Hawaii's Nursing program to make sure it coincided with my objectives and desires that I wished to obtain.

As a first year doctoral student, however, I am learning the importance of an advisor and other mentors. I expected to have had more input in the selection of a PhD advisor whose nursing research and current interests complimented my area of study. Further, one who is active in helping me gain additional training, experiences and funding needed to reach my research goals. I also wish I had known the value of departmental academic and social activities, both which help in mentoring students. As an on-line program, I have very limited opportunities to meet with my cohorts other than on-line discussions or SKYPE format. This has proved to be unfavorable as I live overseas.

Indeed, overall I am pleased with University of Hawaii's on-line PhD Nursing program; its academic rigor and commitment to helping all students complete their studies successfully. I’m especially grateful to find their faculty and staff flexible in assisting the non-traditional student such as myself. As a full-time student, I am in need of securing funding to complete my degree. I am hoping University of Hawaii will help guide me in seeking this.