Why I Want To Undertake The Master Of Science In Nursing Degree

“Yay! Awesome job!” I exclaim loudly as I extend my hand to give my client, who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, a high-five. My client has just properly washed her face with a cleansing wipe without requiring my assistance or that of her parents. To most, this may seem like a minor accomplishment, but to me it is one of the greatest accomplishments yet as we have been working on this for the past year. Accomplishments like these are the ones that make me see that my reward as a Behavior Technician is not necessarily monetary, instead it comes from the progress I see in my clients and the hope I see in their families' eyes.

Working as a Behavior Technician for the past year has made me realize that I want to continue doing what I do now – improve quality of life and care for others. Although I find my current job rewarding and satisfying, I believe I have more to offer and am capable of making that transition from my current role into a nurse. My current occupation as a Behavior Technician has prepared me in many ways to take on new and greater challenges and responsibility.

My current occupation has equipped me with many valuable skills that would be of benefit when training and working as a nurse. For example, working in both home and school settings have improved my interpersonal skills as I am required to communicate not only with my clients and supervisors, but also with my clients' families, teachers, and fellow colleagues. The ability to communicate has helped me provide a higher level of service, prevent mistakes, and build relationships. My role as a Behavior Technician requires me to work effectively not only individually, but also as a team player. Communication is a key component of teamwork. I, along with my superviors, have monthly team meetings where we ensure that clients' programs are up to date and there is consistency among team members. It is at these meetings where I have the opportunity to provide input on clients' current and future programs. I express my concerns and ask questions if clarification is needed. My input is essential to achieving our team goals.

Due to the nature of autism, I am often faced with challenges that require critical thinking and good problem solving skills. I analyze situations and make crucial decisions on the spot, especially when involving challenging behaviors that may cause harm. Although no day is the same, I am faced with situations that demand that I am compassionate, considerate, empathetic, non-judgemental, and sympathetic every day. Hence, I have learned to understand what my clients and their families are going through and respond appropriately so that they feel cared for and respected.

The Master of Science in Nursing degree, in Nursing Science and Health-Care Leadership will provide me with an opportunity to develop both as a scholar and a nurse. In addition, it will prepare me to become a leader in quality and safety, an advocate for diverse patient populations, and an agent of change for healthier communities. Through problem solving, independent thinking, and individual accountability, I will fullfill my learning needs and be prepared to lead in health care. After achieving a Master's Degree at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis, I will have acquired a unique set of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will enable me to administer care effectively. I will have achieved the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that appreciate and embrace inclusiveness, equity, and cultural awareness as a way to unleash creativity and innovation.

Undertaking a degree in nursing will require similar skills and mindsets I have acquired working as a Behavior Technician. I intend to link these skills and qualities with my studies and profession. I understand graduate school will be both psychologically and physically intense. Nevertheless, I have the drive, enthusiasm, and skills to train, and hopefully one day work as a nurse. I am prepared to take the greatest challenge I have ever been faced with in order to achieve my dream of becoming a nurse.