Which program did you choose for your Nurse Practitioner studies, and why did it make the top of your list? I chose the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for my NP studies because it came highly recommended and offered an in-person program close to home. I loved that I could continue working full-time as a nurse while staying connected to patients and gaining hands-on experience. The faculty were incredibly supportive throughout the program, and by the end, I felt confident and excited to take on new challenges as a nurse practitioner.
Tell us more about how you came to choose the field of medicine. What about becoming an NP was attractive? I grew up in a family that valued public service, so helping people in meaningful ways has always been important to me. I knew early on that I wanted a career where I could make a real difference, especially during stressful or vulnerable moments. I started as a nurse because I was drawn to the fast pace and teamwork of acute care, and eventually found my passion in pediatric emergency medicine. Becoming a nurse practitioner felt like a natural next step because it allows me to care for patients more fully, make decisions with confidence, and truly support families when they need it most.
How did you choose Emergency Medicine as your specialty? I was drawn to Emergency Medicine because of its variety and unpredictability. No two patients or shifts are ever the same. I’m a puzzler at heart, so I enjoy quickly assessing patients, piecing together symptoms, and working with a team to create a plan. I also love that emergency medicine allows you to make an immediate difference, whether stabilizing a critically ill patient or helping someone feel well enough to go home.
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day practice? I love that every day is different. I enjoy meeting patients where they are and working with the team to develop the best plan to help them feel better. Emergency medicine is also a melting pot of collaboration, and I enjoy working alongside people across departments to deliver the best care possible.
What led you to practice with MEMA? After working alongside MEMA providers for years as a nurse in the emergency department, I saw firsthand their teamwork, clinical excellence, and dedication to patients. Joining MEMA felt like a natural next step as I transitioned into my NP role.
Has there been one patient, staff member, or caregiver story that has stuck with you? A former MEMA NP, Kathy Jordan, is someone whose impact has stayed with me throughout my career. She encouraged me to return to school and pursue my NP, and her support made that possible. Her encouragement and gentle nudging also helped lead me to practice with MEMA. She was a one-of-a-kind provider and mentor, and someone I hope to emulate in my own practice.
What are some of the biggest challenges of practicing in the emergency department? One of the biggest challenges is the unpredictability. You are constantly balancing multiple patients with very different needs, and high patient volumes can make it difficult to give everyone the attention they deserve. At the same time, those challenges push you to stay adaptable, communicate clearly, and rely on your team, which is also what makes the work so rewarding.
Are you a member of any associations, societies, or organizations? Any leadership roles? Yes, I am a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Have you received any awards or recognition from your peers? I was honored to receive the Novant Health Remarkable Nurse Award during my time as an emergency department nurse, especially because it came from the people I worked alongside every day. As a new NP, I’m excited to continue growing clinically, caring for my patients, and being a strong team member.
What about Charlotte excites you? I grew up just outside of Charlotte and have always loved the energy of the city. There is always something new to explore, from the food scene to sports and outdoor activities. One of my favorite things about Charlotte is its location. You can easily escape to the mountains or the beach within a few hours, which creates a perfect balance between city life and nature.
Do you have any hobbies, interests, or secret powers that are unique to you? Outside of work, I enjoy reading, puzzling, and spending time with friends. I love a sunny day, but I also appreciate a cozy day inside. I enjoy traveling and exploring new places, and I’m always looking forward to my next adventure, whether it is close to home or somewhere far away.