Becoming a registered nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic was a journey that can be summed up by uncertainty, resilience, and constant adaptation. Nursing school looked drastically different than I had imagined, with some of my classes moving to virtual platforms and clinical experiences split between in-person care and online simulations. I was challenged to become self-disciplined, adaptable, and proactive in my learning while also navigating the emotional weight of preparing to enter a healthcare system that was currently under immense strain.
The endeavors I faced in nursing school extended beyond academics. Learning how to provide compassionate care while masked and distanced required creativity and emotional intelligence. Entering the workforce as a new nurse during one of the most difficult times in healthcare history demanded confidence in myself, the ability to speak up when I needed help, and to remain calm under pressure. I learned how to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and show up for my patients despite the fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty that we were all facing day in and day out of work.
These same skills that I learned in nursing translated seamlessly into my role as an NFL cheerleader for the New England Patriots. Cheerleading at the professional level requires discipline, adaptability, and mental toughness. The practices, high expectations, and performing in front of thousands of fans mirror the pressure-filled environments I similarly experienced in healthcare. The resilience I developed as a nurse allows me to stay focused, composed, and confident.
While nursing and cheerleading may seem like two different worlds, both roles are rooted in teamwork, service, and leadership. As a nurse, I support patients during their most vulnerable moments. As a cheerleader, I represent my team, uplift fans, and engage with the community. Both require strong communication skills, emotional awareness, and the ability to work cohesively within a team while representing an organization with pride and professionalism.
Becoming a nurse during COVID prepared me not only for a career in healthcare, but also for the demands of being an NFL cheerleader. The lessons I learned - resilience, adaptability, and perseverance, continue to guide me in every challenge I face. Whether on the front lines of healthcare or the sidelines of the NFL, I push myself to bring the same dedication, strength, and commitment to excellence in all that I do.
