When did you become a nurse?

I started my nursing career in 1997 as an LPN

What made you go into travel nursing?

At that time I was a medical records clerk in an Army Reserve Medical Company. Because of need and as a means to advancement, my unit initially offered to pay full tuition, books and military salary to any of us willing to complete the yearlong civilian LPN program. Just before classes began, the program was unexpectedly cancelled. I was already enrolled at the school so I continued and finished on my own.

Ten years later I went back to school and became an RN. I’ve worked in the operating room for almost my entire career.

I became interested in travel nursing after hearing several friends who were travel nurses talk about adventurous trips to California and Hawaii. After my son was grown  I decided to try one assignment and became hooked.  

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

My favorite location so far has been Chicago because it is the Mecca of Chicago Stepping. I can dance every day of the week there and have met and trained with many of the icons of the dance.

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

I love working and traveling to new places to break the monotony, and because Chicago Stepping has spread across the country I get to meet new people at work and in the dance.

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

My advice to anyone considering travel nursing....put aside your fears, find the right recruiter and assignment and just do it. I guarantee you’ll love it!