This SRNA’s MICU background and life experience fuel her compassionate care.

Describe your prior nursing work experience, including both specialty and region.

I worked in the Medical ICU at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for 5 years before applying to school.

In what anesthesia program are you enrolled, and when is your projected graduation?

University of Cincinnati. December 2025!

What inspired you to pursue a career as a CRNA?

I shadowed a CRNA on a Labor & Delivery unit while in nursing school. Despite not fully understanding the role at that time, I was drawn to the trusting relationship that was formed between the patients and the anesthetist. Then, stepping into the operating room for a c-section and a dilation and curettage, I was enraptured by the vibrant atmosphere and found myself drawn to the IV pumps, vials of drugs, anesthesia machine and numbers on the monitor. Since that day, I have wanted nothing more than to be the person entrusted with the safety and wellness of the patient on the OR table.

What is your favorite case to do in anesthesia and why?

Anything that requires a spinal! I love neuraxial anesthesia and the immediate gratification you get of a successful anesthetic.

Elaborate on a human difference that was paramount to your becoming the person you are today (i.e., culture, national origin, religion, life experiences, neurodivergence, sexual orientation, gender expression, and/or physical abilities).

My sister was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and had to receive a bone marrow transplant during my first semester of CRNA school. While a seemingly impossible time for me and my family, I learned so much from this life experience. One point worth mentioning is that I learned to shake off the little things in life. There are things in life to get upset about, but the vast majority of the minor inconveniences that occur on a daily/ weekly basis I try to not let ruin my day or affect my mood. Since this, I've grown a lot as an individual, and I feel like I have a new perspective on life and how to go about my daily experiences and OR/clinical experiences to view them as positive learning and growing opportunities, even when they aren't always positive. My sister is since doing well, and has been cheering me on every step of the way throughout school!

Who are some of your most influential mentors and why?

The program faculty at UCNAP. They are such amazing educators and CRNAs that inspire me daily, and whom I aspire to be like one day. They really truly want us students to succeed and to be the very best anesthesia providers possible, and it shows!

What are some of your hobbies?

When I'm not in class or at clinical, the majority of my free time is spent with my husband, Jack and my dog, Maggie! We enjoy walking in Cincy parks, hiking, and going to the lake with Maggie, and playing pickleball!

What advice would you like to share with other or future SRNAs?

Stay strong! The process of CRNA school is exhausting, stressful, empowering and rewarding! Learn from every success, shortcoming, and learning opportunity you are presented with and keep your head held high!