Theodore Fletcher graduated with his Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Administration and Management, in October 2023. Theodore started his MSN journey during the COVID-19 pandemic and was able to turn a period of chaos into a path to empowerment. Keep reading to hear Theodore’s story.
There is a moment in everyone’s life when they find themselves standing at a crossroads, where opportunities and options converge, demanding a choice. For me, that moment arrived when I made the decision to pursue a career in nursing. It was a choice that would shape me in more ways than I knew it would.
I embarked on this journey by pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but with each passing semester, I found myself questioning if I had made the right decision. Doubt crept in, and I wondered if this was the path for me. One of my professors, who eventually became my mentor and friend, helped me navigate the challenges of nursing school and instilled in me the confidence to persevere. This encouragement along the way truly helped me get through.
As fate would have it, I found myself thrust into the midst of a global pandemic and was the “Registered Nurse” who people looked to in this time of chaos. As chaotic as it was, the world seemed to come to a standstill at the same time, but the demand on Registered Nurses surged. The pandemic was another crossroad, and I chose to further my education by pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing through Aspen University. Despite the chaotic circumstances and the demands of working full-time, including overtime to combat COVID-19, I knew the timing was right as other than work there was not much to do!
This decision opened doors to unexpected opportunities, including the chance to work with a Global Nursing Organization, the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (ANAC). Through my involvement with ANAC, I found myself at the nexus of a network of passionate healthcare professionals, each committed to making a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS.
One tangible outcome of my advanced degree was securing a sessional Clinical Nursing Professor role at a local university. Remarkably, I was offered the position on the spot, just days after completing my degree. While attending the commencement ceremony in Arizona I was even rushing around to complete some of the hiring paperwork and the background check. It was a whirlwind moment, symbolizing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication and I welcomed the opportunity to give back to aspiring students.
In retrospect, each crossroad I encountered served as a catalyst for growth and opportunity. I am now certain I am where I am meant to be. These crossroads ultimately led me to where I am today – empowered, fulfilled, and committed to making a meaningful difference in the world of healthcare. Looking forward I am preparing for application submissions to DNP and PhD programs to further my nursing education.