college essays about nursing career

How to Write a Nursing Essay with a Quick Guide

Ever felt the blank-page panic when assigned a nursing essay? Wondering where to start or if your words will measure up to the weight of your experiences? Fear not, because today, we're here to guide you through this process.

Imagine you're at your favorite coffee spot, armed with a cup of motivation (and maybe a sneaky treat). Got it? Great! Now, let's spill the secrets on how to spin your nursing tales into words that not only get you that A+ but also tug at the heartstrings of anyone reading. We've got your back with nursing essay examples that'll be your inspiration, an outline to keep you on the right path, and more!

What Is a Nursing Essay

Let's start by dissecting the concept. A nursing essay serves as a focused exploration of a specific aspect of nursing, providing an opportunity for students to demonstrate their theoretical knowledge and its practical application in patient care settings.

Picture it as a journey through the challenges and victories of a budding nurse. These essays go beyond the classroom, tackling everything from tricky ethical dilemmas to the impact of healthcare policies on the front lines. It's not just about grades; it's about proving, 'I'm ready for the real deal.'

So, when you read or write a nursing essay, it's not just words on paper. It's like looking into the world of someone who's about to start their nursing career – someone who's really thought about the ins and outs of being a nurse. And before you kick off your nursing career, don't shy away from asking - write my essay for me - we're ready to land a professional helping hand.

How to Start a Nursing Essay

When you start writing a nursing essay, it is like gearing up for a crucial mission. Here's your quick guide from our nursing essay writing service :

Choosing Your Topic: Select a topic that sparks your interest and relates to real-world nursing challenges. Consider areas like patient care, ethical dilemmas, or the impact of technology on healthcare.

Outline Your Route : Plan your essay's journey. Create a roadmap with key points you want to cover. This keeps you on track and your essay on point.

Craft a Strong Thesis: Assuming you already know how to write a hook , kick off your writing with a surprising fact, a thought-provoking quote, or a brief anecdote. Then, state your main argument or perspective in one sentence. This thesis will serve as the compass for your essay, guiding both you and your reader through the rest of your writing.

How to Structure a Nursing Essay

Every great essay is like a well-orchestrated performance – it needs a script, a narrative that flows seamlessly, capturing the audience's attention from start to finish. In our case, this script takes the form of a well-organized structure. Let's delve into the elements that teach you how to write a nursing essay, from a mere collection of words to a compelling journey of insights.

Nursing Essay Introduction

Begin your nursing essay with a spark. Knowing how to write essay introduction effectively means sharing a real-life scenario or a striking fact related to your topic. For instance, if exploring patient care, narrate a personal experience that made a lasting impression. Then, crisply state your thesis – a clear roadmap indicating the direction your essay will take. Think of it as a teaser that leaves the reader eager to explore the insights you're about to unfold.

In the main body, dive into the heart of your essay. Each paragraph should explore a specific aspect of your topic. Back your thoughts with examples – maybe a scenario from your clinical experience, a relevant case study, or findings from credible sources. Imagine it as a puzzle coming together; each paragraph adds a piece, forming a complete picture. Keep it focused and let each idea flow naturally into the next.

Nursing Essay Conclusion

As writing a nursing essay nears the end, resist the urge to introduce new elements. Summarize your main points concisely. Remind the reader of the real-world significance of your thesis – why it matters in the broader context of nursing. Conclude with a thought-provoking statement or a call to reflection, leaving your reader with a lasting impression. It's like the final scene of a movie that leaves you thinking long after the credits roll.

Nursing Essay Outline

Before diving into the essay, craft a roadmap – your outline. This isn't a rigid skeleton but a flexible guide that ensures your ideas flow logically. Consider the following template from our research paper writing service :

Introduction

• Opening Hook: Share a brief, impactful patient care scenario.
• Relevance Statement: Explain why the chosen topic is crucial in nursing.
• Thesis: Clearly state the main argument or perspective.

Patient-Centered Care:

• Definition: Clarify what patient-centered care means in nursing.
• Personal Experience: Share a relevant encounter from clinical practice.
• Evidence: Integrate findings from reputable nursing literature.

Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing Practice

• Scenario Presentation: Describe a specific ethical challenge faced by nurses.
• Decision-Making Process: Outline steps taken to address the dilemma.
• Ethical Frameworks: Discuss any ethical theories guiding the decision.

Impact of Technology on Nursing

• Current Trends: Highlight technological advancements in nursing.
• Case Study: Share an example of technology enhancing patient care.
• Challenges and Benefits: Discuss the pros and cons of technology in nursing.
• Summary of Key Points: Recap the main ideas from each section.
• Real-world Implications: Emphasize the practical significance in nursing practice.
• Closing Thought: End with a reflective statement or call to action.

A+ in Nursing Essays Await You!

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Nursing Essay Examples

Here are the nursing Essay Examples for you to read.

Writing a Nursing Essay: Essential Tips

When it comes to crafting a stellar nursing essay, a few key strategies can elevate your work from ordinary to exceptional. Here are some valuable tips from our medical school personal statement writer :

Connect with Personal Experiences:

• Approach: Weave personal encounters seamlessly into your narrative.
• Reasoning: This not only adds authenticity to your essay but also serves as a powerful testament to your firsthand understanding of the challenges and triumphs in the nursing field.

Emphasize Critical Thinking:

• Approach: Go beyond describing situations; delve into their analysis.
• Reasoning: Nursing essays are the perfect platform to showcase your critical thinking skills – an essential attribute in making informed decisions in real-world healthcare scenarios.

Incorporate Patient Perspectives:

• Approach: Integrate patient stories or feedback into your discussion.
• Reasoning: By bringing in the human element, you demonstrate empathy and an understanding of the patient's experience, a core aspect of nursing care.

Integrate Evidence-Based Practice:

• Approach: Support your arguments with the latest evidence-based literature.
• Reasoning: Highlighting your commitment to staying informed and applying current research underscores your dedication to evidence-based practice – a cornerstone in modern nursing.

Address Ethical Considerations:

• Approach: Explicitly discuss the ethical dimensions of your topic.
• Reasoning: Nursing essays provide a platform to delve into the ethical complexities inherent in healthcare, showcasing your ability to navigate and analyze these challenges.

Balance Theory and Practice:

• Approach: Connect theoretical concepts to real-world applications.
• Reasoning: By bridging the gap between theory and practice, you illustrate your capacity to apply academic knowledge effectively in the dynamic realm of nursing.

Highlight Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

• Approach: Discuss collaborative efforts with other healthcare professionals.
• Reasoning: Acknowledging the interdisciplinary nature of healthcare underscores your understanding of the importance of teamwork – a vital aspect of successful nursing practice.

Reflect on Lessons Learned:

• Approach: Conclude with a thoughtful reflection on personal growth or lessons from your exploration.
• Reasoning: This not only provides a satisfying conclusion but also demonstrates your self-awareness and commitment to continuous improvement as a nursing professional.

As we wrap up, think of your essay as a story about your journey into nursing. It's not just about getting a grade; it's a way to share what you've been through and why you want to be a nurse.

Imagine the person reading it – maybe a teacher, a future coworker, or someone starting their nursing journey. They're trying to understand your passion and why you care about nursing.

So, when you write, remember it's more than just an assignment. It's your chance to show why nursing matters to you. And if you ever need help – there's always support from our essay writer online .

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How to Write a Nursing Essay?

How can a nursing essay effectively address ethical considerations, what are some examples of evidence-based practices in nursing essays, related articles.

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Tips for Writing Your Nursing Program College Essays

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Giebien Na in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

The importance of your college essays, general advice for writing your nursing essays.

If you know you want to be a nurse, you probably have quite a few reasons for that. Instead of merely relying on your academic and test performances to tell your story, you get the opportunity in your essays to share exactly why you’re so passionate about nursing. Writing about this can be a clarifying and even exciting process. This article explains why college application essays matter and how you should write about why you want to become a nurse.

Grades and test scores matter when you’re applying to college, but your essays can help improve your chances of admission. They’re how you can express your experiences and make your desire to become a nurse clear and personal.

If your prospective school doesn’t have supplemental essays, it’s a good idea to include your interest in nursing in your Common App essay . This could mean that you end up with two different drafts of the essay: one for if there are supplemental essays where you can discuss your interests in nursing and one for if there are not. You’ll change them out depending on whether you also have to respond to specific prompts about why you want to pursue nursing. This may not sound like much fun, but it will help you be admitted to your school of choice.

It might seem exciting to apply to a place where you don’t have to write extra essays—it’s less work! If you don’t do that additional work, though, you’ll have fewer chances to explain yourself. You might not be able to share exactly why you think that you’re the right fit for a certain college or program. 

If you are writing supplemental essays for the colleges that you’re interested in, you can include more details about your passion for nursing. You’ll often be asked, “why this major?” or “why this school?” When you have those opportunities to share your specific reasons, you can let yourself get personal and go deep into your passion. Use that space to share important details about who you are.

Start Broad

When writing essays entirely about why you want to pursue nursing , try to start from a broad interest, then slowly work your way to telling specific personal stories and goals. 

When first thinking about your general interest in nursing, ask yourself what attracts you to the work of being a nurse. This can lead to powerful potential responses. Maybe you like taking care of people in the community. Perhaps you’ve always known that you wanted to make a difference in the healthcare profession, but you don’t want to be a doctor. You’d rather make patients’ healthcare experiences as comfortable and pleasant as possible. 

After you’ve described these broad, overarching motivations for wanting to go into nursing, consider any personal experiences that have made you want to be a nurse. Think about moments you’ve had during hospital visits or checkups or an anecdote from a time that you decided to volunteer in a healthcare role. Once you’ve written these stories, you can end the essay by discussing your planned major and career goals.

Discuss Your Future Goals

If you know what your end goal is, be sure to include it. You can write about becoming a registered nurse or maybe a nurse practitioner. It doesn’t have to be set in stone , but sharing a final ambition can help anchor your personal narrative. Writing about the future that you want can help the admissions officer reading your essay see how you view yourself. If they can do this, they’ll better understand your values and motivations and see you as a real candidate for their school. 

You don’t have to follow this pattern exactly. For example, it can be powerful to begin your essay in the middle of the action—you can dive right into an anecdote and get the reader interested in your story from the jump. 

While you should avoid dramatization, starting with a few clear, memorable scenes or a line or two of dialogue can make for an instantly interesting essay. All of this helps you show your passion, rather than simply explaining what intrigues you about a nursing career. 

Once you’ve led with your narrative, though, remember to ground it in clear reasons for your intended career and what you want your future to look like. A good essay will be balanced between the past, present, and future. It’s how a college will see who you are and everything that you have to offer.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Writing an Outstanding Application Nursing Essay

Embarking on the path to a nursing career involves navigating through various challenges and significant moments, with the nursing application essay standing out as a key component. This essential part of your application transcends mere formality; it presents a special chance for you to highlight your character, commitment, and aptitude for the nursing profession. In this detailed guide, we aim to explore the intricacies of creating a standout nursing application essay. Whether you’re just starting to explore the nursing field or are ready to submit your application, this article is your roadmap to success.

Understanding the Purpose of the Essay

What do nursing schools seek in your essay.

Nursing schools are looking for candidates with the academic qualifications and personal qualities essential for nursing. Your essay should reflect your compassion, empathy, commitment to the profession, and understanding of the nursing role.

The Essay’s Role in Your Application

Your application essay is your voice in the admission process. It’s where you can speak directly to the admissions committee, tell your story, and explain why you are drawn to the nursing field. This essay can be the deciding factor in your application, setting you apart from other candidates.

Preparing to Write

• Research: Aligning with the School’s Values

Prior to beginning your essay, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the fundamental ideals and beliefs of the nursing school you’re applying to. Spend time browsing their website, absorbing their mission statement, and comprehending their perspective on nursing education. This crucial insight will help you tailor your essay to resonate with the school’s philosophy. This research will help you tailor your essay to resonate with their ethos.

• Self-reflection: Your Nursing Journey

Reflect on your experiences and why you chose nursing. Think about moments in your life that led you to pursue this career. These reflections will help you create an authentic and personal narrative.

• Brainstorming: Crafting Your Story

Take time to brainstorm ideas for your essay. Think about your strengths, experiences, and what aspects of nursing excite you. Make sure to note down these key points; they will be the essential framework for your essay.

Structuring Your Essay

• Introduction: Making a Strong First Impression

The introduction of your essay is your first chance to capture the reader’s attention. Begin with an engaging story, a meaningful personal experience, or a statement that makes the reader think. This approach will offer a window into your personality and highlight your enthusiasm for nursing.

• Body: Building Your Narrative

Organize the body of your essay around a few key experiences or ideas. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your journey or a particular quality you possess. Use examples from your life to demonstrate your commitment, compassion, and ability to overcome challenges.

• Conclusion: Leaving a Lasting Impression

Your conclusion should wrap up your essay by summarizing the key points and reaffirming your interest and readiness for a nursing career. This is your final chance to remind the admissions committee why you are a suitable candidate.

Writing Tips and Best Practices

• Clarity and Conciseness

Keep your writing clear and concise. Avoid unnecessary jargon and be direct in your storytelling. Remember, the admissions committee reads many essays, so getting your point across quickly is crucial.

• Authenticity: Be Yourself

Your essay should reflect your true self. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Honesty and sincerity will resonate more than trying to fit a certain mold you think the school wants.

• Using Specific Examples

Provide specific life examples rather than general statements about your passion for nursing. This might include volunteering, personal experiences with healthcare, or moments of inspiration from other nurses.

• Attention to Technical Details

Proofread your essay multiple times for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Also, adhere to the nursing school’s formatting guidelines, such as word count and font size.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Steering Clear of Clichés and Generalities

Clichés and overused phrases can make your essay sound generic. Instead, focus on providing unique insights and personal experiences that highlight individuality.

• Directly Answering the Essay Prompt

It’s crucial to stay on topic and answer the essay prompt directly. Deviating from the prompt can lead the admissions committee to question your attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.

• Avoiding Excessive Jargon

Revising and Refining Your Essay

• The Importance of Drafts and Revisions

Your first draft is just the beginning. Be prepared to revise and refine your essay several times. This process helps fine-tune your message and improve the overall flow and clarity.

• Seeking Feedback

Get feedback on your essay from mentors, teachers, or peers. They can provide valuable insights and suggest improvements you might not have considered.

• Final Proofreading

Before submitting your essay, do a thorough proofreading. Check for grammatical errors or typos, and ensure your essay adheres to the specified word limit and formatting requirements.

Crafting your nursing application essay is an opportunity for self-reflection and a chance to convey your zeal for nursing. It’s important to remain authentic, be truthful in your narrative, and allow your sincere passion for nursing to be evident. With careful preparation, thoughtful structure, and attention to detail, your essay can prove your readiness for a nursing career.

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Nursing Essays!

Precision, Passion, & Professionalism in Every Page.

How to Write a Winning Nursing Application Essay

Nursing February 23, 2024

Not everyone dreads writing their nursing application essay. Some consider writing a strong suit. But others definitely don’t. If you fall in the latter category, take heart; submitting a well-crafted, winning essay isn’t as difficult as it may seem.

It may help to keep in mind that a bad essay probably won’t ruin your chances of becoming a nurse. But a good essay could mean the difference between getting accepted into a program of your choice, at a time of your choosing, or not. That’s because admissions personnel often turn to the application essay to differentiate among candidates who might otherwise seem equivalent. A good application essay can set you apart from the pack and help your application stand out.

Of course, if writing were your passion, you’d probably be pursuing a different career. Admissions staff for nursing programs throughout the U.S., including those at the Denver College of Nursing , understand this. In addition to giving you a chance to reveal a bit about yourself and your motivation for becoming a nurse, admissions personnel view the essay as a way to assess skills that go beyond writing ability. For example, it can be a quick way to assess whether you’re capable of following instructions carefully.

Importance of the Nursing Application Essay

The nursing school application essay is an important part of the admissions process. It not only provides insight about an applicant that goes beyond grades and test scores, but also gives the applicant an opportunity to discuss personal and professional aspirations and explain why they’re passionate about becoming a registered nurse (RN).

An application essay provides a glimpse into an applicant’s character and values. It also helps applicants demonstrate their ability to convey thoughts coherently, a vital skill for nurses who must communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams, among others.  

The admission essay also presents students with an opportunity to highlight unique experiences they’ve had, challenges they’ve overcome, and impactful moments in their lives that have motivated them to pursue a nursing degree. Whether it’s a story about a transformative volunteer experience or a story about how an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse helped care for a family member, these narratives help differentiate candidates by showcasing their potential contributions to the profession.

Writing a compelling nursing school application essay is about more than drafting words onto a page. It’s about crafting a final product that enables admissions counselors to see applicants as more than their GPA, educational history, and academic achievements. It can be an equally important skill for students looking to apply for grants and scholarships to help them pay for nursing school .

Tips for Your Nursing Admission Essay

Writing a nursing school application essay requires finesse and clarity. Below are just a few of the tips students can use to craft an essay they can be proud of.

1. Follow Instructions Carefully

Think of your essay as another type of screening tool. For example, applicants who fail to follow instructions properly are easily weeded out of the pile. This makes sense when you consider the ultimate importance of following instructions and staying on task in nursing school.

Managing your workload, meeting expectations, and making deadlines will be crucial to your success. It’s far too easy to fall behind — and never catch back up — if you don’t practice self-discipline during nursing school.

If the expected length of your nursing application essay isn’t spelled out, assume that you should submit no more than two pages of text. If you’re assigned a specific topic, be sure to address it, even if you only use it as a springboard to launch your essay in a new direction.

2. Don’t Procrastinate

Writing a strong essay may take more time than you realize. Accordingly, it makes sense to allow plenty of time to complete your essay. Unless you’re already an accomplished writer, assume that crafting a polished essay will take considerable time for brainstorming, drafting, editing, and rewriting.

It may be helpful to create an outline first. But try not to overthink it. Writing that comes from the heart — not the head — is often some of the most compelling writing there is. But even heartfelt sentiments require a bit of effort to shine on the page. Clear phrasing and attention to detail matter.

3. Don’t Be Intimidated

The idea of creating an outline and writing one or more drafts can sound daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. A rough draft can simply be a bunch of words strung together that capture your stream of consciousness. It’s OK not to worry about grammar, structure, transitions, or other technical details when writing a rough draft.

Remember, it’s called a rough draft for a reason. The point is to gather your thoughts, ideas, and even feelings, and give them voice. Once you’ve done this, you’ll likely find that making revisions; fixing grammar and spelling errors; and eliminating unclear, unnecessary, or inappropriate words or phrases comes more easily. Writers used to do this by hand. Today’s technology makes it remarkably easy to edit on the fly, and numerous digital proofreading tools are available to help you fine-tune your writing.

4. Make the Essay Yours

Lastly, avoid the obvious, the expected, or the banal. Recognize that there are certain sentiments that virtually every applicant will be tempted to express. Try to avoid the expected and do something a little different. That doesn’t mean you should be different for the sake of being different. But sharing something that other writers haven’t already discussed can be valuable.

Attempt to craft a strong, compelling opening sentence or paragraph. In any piece of writing, it’s important to hook your reader early for optimal impact.

You and your experiences are unique. Take the plunge and dare to bare a bit of your soul and bring some of the emotion that motivates you into your writing. As noted earlier, writing that comes from the heart is invariably more gripping than writing that appears to follow a template. Allow your essay to tell a story: the story of you. But keep it succinct and keep it honest. 

Pursue Your Dream of Becoming a Registered Nurse

Aspiring nurses across the U.S., whether they’re interested in earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) , a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) , an RN to BSN , or a Master of Science of Nursing (MSN) , must start their educational journey by applying to an accredited nursing program and crafting a nursing application essay.

Are you ready to take the next step toward your dream of pursuing a nursing job at a hospital, community care clinic, or group medical practice? Discover how completing a nursing degree with the Denver College of Nursing can prepare you for the next step in your career.

Recommended Readings Celebrating Important Women in Medicine and Healthcare Making a Difference in Texas as a Rural Healthcare Safety Net Provider Nurse What Does an OR Nurse Do?  

Sources BigFuture, Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay  Indeed, Writing an Application Essay for Nursing School Admission IntelyCare, "Tips to Write a Personal Statement for Nursing School” 

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What to include: why i want to be a nurse essay.

Why do you want to be a nurse? What is your reason for entering the nursing profession? What drives you?

You will face these questions multiple times throughout your career, but there are two occasions in which answering them could actually define your career.

The first is when you apply to nursing school. You may be asked to complete an essay outlining why you want to become a nurse.

The second time is when you apply for a nursing position and answer that question as part of the interview process.

Whether you're applying for a nursing program or job, it's important to know how to address this question and what sort of answers work best.

What To Include In Your Nursing Essay

To create the perfect nursing essay, one that can help you get into nursing school or find your first job, follow the steps below:

Plan Your Nurse Essay

Before you start writing your nursing essay, think about what you want to include.

Jot down ideas that express your passion for the nursing profession, as well as any personal or familiar experience that led you to take this step.

Be honest. Be open. Summarize your story, highlight your goals, and think about what the nursing profession means to you.

All of these things will be important when structuring your essay.

Show an Emotional Connection to the Profession

Do you have any family members that worked as nurses or doctors? Did you care for a loved one during an illness? Did you require a lot of care at some point in your life?

If so, this should be your lead, and it's probably the most important part of your essay.

Nursing is a lucrative career. You can make a decent salary, enter numerous specialties, and even progress to opening your own practice. There is also a national nursing shortage, so you'll also have plenty of opportunities if you're willing to learn and work. But interviewers don't want to hear that you became a nurse to earn good money and pick up lots of overtime.

Think of it in the context of a talent show. We know that the contestants are there to get famous and make lots of money. But when they stand in front of the camera and appeal for votes, they talk about deceased parents/grandparents, changing their family's life for the better, and making a difference in the world.

It's easy to sympathize with someone who wants to follow in the footsteps of a beloved mother or make a grandparent proud. It's not as easy to sympathize with someone who just wants to drive a Bugatti and wear a Rolex.

Examples  :

"My mother is a nurse practitioner. I can see how happy the role makes her and how much it has changed her. I have looked up to her throughout my life and have always wanted to follow in her footsteps."

"I cared for my father when he was ill. I was able to comfort him and assist him in his time of need, and while it was very challenging, it always felt right to me and it's something I would love to do as a career."

Show That You Care

Like all health care workers, nurses are devoted to healing the sick. If you're not a people person, it's probably not the profession for you.

Make it clear that you're a caring person and are willing to devote your life to healing sick people. A good nurse also knows how to comfort distraught family members, so you may want to include this in your essay as well.

If you have any examples of times when you have helped others, include them. This is a good time to talk about volunteer work, as well as other occasions in which you have devoted your time to helping strangers.

"I feel a great sense of pride working with families and patients through difficult times. I like to know that I am making a difference in the lives of others."

"I want to become a nurse so that I can help others in their time of need. I chose nursing as a profession because I feel a great sense of accomplishment when helping others".

Share Your Aspirations

What are your goals for your nursing career? Do you want to become a nurse practitioner? Do you want to specialize as a nurse anesthetist, a critical care nurse, or focus more on pediatrics?

Nurses work across a range of specialties, and it's important to show that you are interested in continuing your education and developing to your full potential.

The goal is to show that you are determined. You are driven to succeed and to better yourself.

If you're just taking your first steps as a nursing student, now is a good time to research into specialties and get an idea of how you want your career to progress.

"I have always been drawn to the nursing profession because it's challenging, demanding, and interesting. I want to push myself every day, engaging my academic interests and satisfying my need to learn and improve as a person."

Describe Your Nursing Skills and Qualifications

If you're applying for an accelerated nursing program or a new nursing job, the interviewer will have access to your qualifications. But they won't know what those qualifications mean to you, what you learned from them, and how you can use them in your career.

It's about problem-solving skills, as well as academic work. It's about experience and personal growth, as well as knowledge acquisition.

This is a good time to talk about internships.

How Do You Write an Introduction to a Nurse Essay?

Starting is always the hardest part, but it's best not to overthink it.

Just start writing about why you want to become a nurse. Don't overthink it. Don't worry too much about the first word or sentence. Everything can be edited, and if you spend too long thinking about those first words, you'll never finish the essay.

Keep it simple, check your work, and edit it until it's perfect and says exactly what you want it to say.

How to Write a Nursing Essay for a Nursing Class | Student's Guide

A nursing essay is a focused piece of writing that develops nursing-related ideas using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

In most cases, the content and length of the nursing essay will depend on the level of study, course requirements, instructor preference, and the type of nursing specialization you are taking. Nevertheless, you will primarily write nursing essays, including persuasive, definition, descriptive, argumentative, reflective, and narrative essays.

The process of writing an essay on a nursing topic is the same as the typical essay writing process; it entails three stages ( pre-writing, writing, and post-writing phases ), each with its steps. Although nursing is a noble career, everyone confuses the process of being easy. Nevertheless, completing nursing essays for a nursing class can be challenging, especially if you don't have a structured approach. Not to worry, though!

In this writing guide, we walk you through the steps to take, the structure to adopt, the top tips to use, and some topics to consider when writing an academic nursing essay.

Types of Nursing Essays Nursing Students Write

If you are wondering what types of essays, you are likely to be assigned when in nursing college or when pursuing a nursing degree from a university, let's introduce you to some of them. Academic writing is an essential skill for nurses that they require attaining proficiency in their careers. And because it is a crucial part of the profession, you will be assigned to write different essays. Here are different writings that you will do in nursing school:

• Nursing School Essays. These are the essays or personal statements written before joining nursing school. It is written to show your zeal, passion, and determination to be a nurse. It includes "why nursing" essays, "why I want to become a nurse" essays, or "the noble nursing profession." These are written as part of the application process.
• Reflective Essays. Nursing reflective essays entail expressing your feelings, thoughts, and experiences about an event, such as a practicum, hospital experience, shadowing experience, research project, or study experience. You can use reflective frameworks such as the Johari window, Gibbs reflective model, Kolb's reflective model, Era Cycle, or Driscoll's what model. Your personal nursing philosophy paper is also written in a reflective tone.
• Nursing Scholarship Essays. These are essays written to explain to a scholarship-selection committee why you deserve a scholarship to study nursing or to advance your degree.
• Nursing case study analysis essays
• Descriptive essays. These essays describe a process, topic, or phenomenon of interest in nursing practice.
• Comparative Essays. These essays compare and contrast two things, places, processes, and objects. You can be asked to evaluate middle-range theories and compare disease intervention processes, articles, texts, or events.
• Persuasive Essays. These essays entail convincing the readers to adopt a certain viewpoint or take a specific action. For example, you can be asked to write a marijuana legalization essay or an essay on why nurses should be involved in disaster management.
• Expository Essays. Expository essays are five-paragraph essays that explain something or educate/inform the reader. For example, you could be asked to write an essay on the advantages of adopting electronic health systems, why nurses should advance their studies, how to address the nursing shortage, or the legislation and legal requirements to become a nurse.
• Narrative Essays. These are essays that tell a story from the perspective of an individual. For instance, you can narrate how you came to love nursing, your nursing philosophy, or your leadership philosophy.

Nursing Essay Writing Process

A typical nursing essay writing process takes three stages: prewriting, writing, and post-writing. Of course, this also applies when writing a nursing research paper or a case study, for that matter.

Note that the time, effort, and dedication required may differ depending on the essay's type, length, and scope.

For example, if you are assigned to write a 3–4-page essay analyzing a healthcare policy, most of your time will be consumed by research, planning, and writing. And if you are to write an essay on why you love nursing, you will most likely spend less time researching because you are writing it from your perspective. In a nutshell, the three stages entail:

Prewriting stage

• Unpacking the question
• Defining and refining the essay topic
• Creating a title
• Researching and gathering sources
• Developing a thesis statement
• Creating an outline

Writing Stage

• Crafting the introduction, body, and conclusion
• Fixing the in-text citations

Post writing stage

• Editing, revising, proofreading, formatting, and polishing the essay.
• Checking for plagiarism
• Submitting the essay on time

Pre-Writing Phase for writing a nursing essay

Before you start writing a nursing essay, you have to ensure that you are clear about what is required of you

Unpack or Dissect the Question

The first step in the process of writing a nursing assignment is to know the question. You can do this by reading the prompt in the portal (Blackboard or Canvas), email from the lecturer, or PowerPoint slide presentations from class.

Understanding the question helps you structure your approach, limit the scope of your research, and write a nursing paper addressing the prompt. You should look for pointers, signal words, or terms such as evaluate, elaborate, explore, discuss, examine, illustrate, compare and contrast, cause and effect, make a case, etc.

When you get it right from the onset, you can achieve the goal of your nursing essay, which is to demonstrate that you have a better grasp of theoretical concepts and research processes and can write a professionally written paper.

Select a suitable topic

In most cases, you will be given a topic to write about because nursing essays focus on the same issues, unlike other subjects.

 The field is leveled in nursing classes. Nevertheless, due to the differences in communities, states, and nationalities that nursing students come from, you might be allowed to select a topic on your own.

After selecting a suitable topic that is neither too broad nor too narrow, submit it for approval by your professor or nurse educator. Ideally, choose a topic that aligns with the course concepts, theories, and readings. For instance, if discussing healthcare determinants in a specific community, focus on a website such as HealthyPeople to get the facts right.

Use the determinants mentioned in class when benchmarking nursing practice and community experiences.

The same applies to other areas such as anatomy, pathophysiology, epidemiology, care planning, assessment, leadership, education, practice, state laws, advocacy, policy analysis, etc.

When choosing the topic, go for the one you are interested in. Probably select a topic that aligns with your future ambitions/specialization.

Related Article: Nursing Research Topics for Essays and Nursing Papers.

Focus your Research and Select Sources

Once you have a topic, you must research widely from credible nursing sources.

Develop an understanding of the topic, understand what nursing scholars are saying about the topic, and select potential nursing references for your paper.

You can use scholarly nursing databases such as PubMed, Medline, Embase, BMC, the Cochrane Library, or the JBI EBP database.

Limit your search to articles and journals published within the last five years unless you have to reference a seminal work that has not been updated through the years.

Develop your thesis

A common question students ask is whether nursing essays have thesis statements. The response is that, like any other essay, you should include a thesis that announces your central aim or idea.

Your thesis statement should be assertive, specific, arguable, precise, and demonstrative. It should round up the gist of your entire paper.  The topic, supporting, and concluding sentences depends on the thesis statement.

Outline your essay

After creating a reasonable and focused thesis statement, map out a rough structure of your essay. Mapping out your essay helps you understand what falls where and stay focused when writing.

The essay outline should have your title, hook statement, thesis statement, and topic sentences. You will be filling this outline in the next step when writing the paper.

Writing stage for the Nursing Essay

In the writing phase, you must focus on filling your outline with content. Follow the following steps.

Write the introduction first

By now, you have identified the direction you want your essay to take, depending on the structured approach you have selected to answer the prompt/question. The introduction of your essay sets the tone, direction, and scope of your essay. since it is the invitation for your readers and the first contact point, it should grab their attention and then inform them what is to come. The introduction should be 15-20% of the word count. It should entail:

• Hook – this is the first sentence in your nursing essay, and it should raise the curiosity of your readers and pique their interests. You can use a statistical, epidemiological, or surprising fact related to the topic. In most cases, when writing essays on disease, epidemiology, and disease processes, shocking statistical/epidemiological facts can do the work. For instance, if you are writing an essay on mental health or illness, state the portion of the affected national, international, regional, or state population.
• Background of the topic – the background is where you give the context that helps your readers understand your arguments. Provide an overview of the topic, the importance of the nursing topic, and if possible, explain the complicated terms.
• Thesis statement – state your thesis statement as stated in the outline. In addition, the thesis should signal your position on the topic.
• Signposting – this is where you map out the content of your essay by stating the content in each section. It is specifically applicable to longer essays.

Develop the body paragraphs

After writing the introduction, you need to write the body paragraphs of your nursing essay. The body is approximately 75-80% of your essay's word count.

It is where you make arguments, give examples, and provide evidence to support the thesis. You should present, analyze, interpret, and organize the sources when supporting your claims and arguments.

In terms of writing the paragraphs, ensure that each body paragraph has an outstanding topic sentence, supporting sentences, and concluding sentences.

 The first sentence is the topic sentence, which announces what the paragraph is about.

The supporting sentences are where you present the facts, information, and examples from scholarly sources. Make sure to cite the information to avoid plagiarism.

Also, have transition words to help you write an essay with a good flow of ideas.

In nursing, you can use AMA, APA, ASA, or Harvard formatting; ensure you stick to the respective rules.

Write the conclusion

 The conclusion is the final paragraph of your nursing essay. You should write it to include 10-15% of the word count of your essay. A strong nursing essay conclusion restates the thesis, ties together the main arguments, has a call to action, or provides a sense of closure to the readers.

It should have an impactful or memorable sentence that lets the reader develop a strong connection and have a positive impression.

Your conclusion should not have any new facts, concepts, or examples. Instead, it should summarize your essay.

If you have a nursing essay that has a concept map, you can hire a concept map writer from our website and fulfil your assignment on time. 

Tips to help you write better Nursing Essays

As we began by saying, writing nursing essays follows the same steps as the essays you have written before. Apart from mastering the citations and structure and following the above steps to write a powerful essay, you can use these tips to ensure that your paper meets the requirements for the top grades in the rubric.

• Make clarifications early enough . When assigned to write a nursing essay, start by reading the instructions and unpacking what is required of you. Then, if you have any questions, contact your nurse educator or professor early enough.
• Allocate adequate time to complete the paper. To write a top-grade nursing essay, you must allocate enough time to research, draft, edit, and polish your essay. Therefore, completing and submitting the essay before the deadline is advisable.
• Research widely . If you are going to write a winning essay, you need to support your ideas with facts and pieces of evidence. Extract this evidence and supporting facts from nursing databases. Use journals, nurse organization websites, and government websites to support your arguments.
• Write first and edit later . When writing the paper, focus on writing first so that all your attention is focused on writing a paper with a good flow of ideas. Then, you can save everything else for later when proofreading and editing to turn the paper into a final draft.
• Incorporate concepts and theories from class . Nursing studies entail the learning and applying of nursing concepts, theories, and practical experiences. Therefore, focus your paper on these theories based on class readings, discussion posts and responses, and experiences during practice.
• Organize your paper well . As you write the essay, think creatively. Remember to present your facts logically and support your arguments using relevant in-text citations.
• Check for plagiarism . Before submitting your paper, check if it has plagiarism. You can do so using free plagiarism checkers such as Plagscan or Grammarly.
• Format your paper well . Ensure that you format and structure your paper according to the formatting and citation styles highlighted in your essay prompt. If you are unsure, refer to the citation machines or websites.
• Hire someone to write . If you cannot write the essay, hire a good nursing essay writer to write a model nursing essay that can demonstrate how to approach your topic. Then, you can edit, use it as a guide, and write an essay that addresses the prompt.

Related: Writing a nursing diagnosis statement.

Writing a nursing essay helps you develop critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making skills. For instance, writing an essay that applies the clinical reasoning cycle or SBAR communication model will help you know how to apply such models in practice. Therefore, ensure that your nursing essay meets your nursing class's content, structural, theoretical constructs, quality improvement models, and facts.

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When in nursing school, essay writing is a critical aspect. You can hire a nursing essay writer from our website if you are strapped for time to complete your essays. Our experts can craft high-quality essays on any nursing essay topic of your choice. All papers are written in the appropriate format: APA, Harvard, AMA, or ASA. Check out our entire nursing class help package and make a deal today!

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Writing Tips for Nursing School Students

• Nursing School Writing Types
• Writing a Nursing Essay
• Citations Guide
• Common Writing Mistakes
• Writing Resources

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Writing is an essential skill nurses should achieve proficiency in early in their career. It is a crucial part of the profession, as nurses need to be able to effectively communicate with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.

While verbal communication also plays a vital role in nursing, being able to write well builds the nurse’s ability to provide better care.

Being able to accurately detail a patient’s personal history, symptoms, and diagnosis allows for the execution of a precise treatment plan that is clearly communicated to all parties involved, both professional and personal.

From registered nurses to clinical nurses and beyond, being able to communicate effectively and efficiently is a critical soft skill that will help nurses in any role increase their ability to treat their patients.

This guide provides an overview of the types of writing nurses will experience throughout their educational training. Utilize the following tips and tricks to help strengthen your writing skills, which will ultimately help in the development of transferable career skills .

Types of Writing Nurses Will Do in School

Personal statements for nursing school.

Nursing schools want candidates who meet academic and professional requirements. They also want a candidate who demonstrates a sincere passion for patient care and individual connections. You should always craft a personal statement, even when the application doesn’t explicitly require one. Personal statements allow you to describe your goals, characteristics, credentials, volunteer work, and meaningful life experiences. A well-crafted essay can help you stand out among other qualified applicants. And, as with any piece of writing, you must take the time to revise.

In your personal statement, you should portray yourself as determined and empathetic, with characteristics, goals, work ethic, and healthcare philosophy that align with a program’s values. Some nursing schools ask for a general personal statement, while others require a specific prompt. Colleges commonly ask students to describe a hardship they overcame, a difficult task they accomplished, or a professional goal they hope to achieve through the program. Many schools also ask students to detail previous experiences in healthcare. You may decide to write about how you connect with patients or how you provide practical and emotional support to loved ones.

You will also encounter writing prompts during examinations, including standardized tests like the GRE or MCAT, nursing school entrance exams , and course-specific evaluations. You may also take exams to get state licensure or professional certification. In most of these instances, you will need to write one or several long-form essays. Proper planning is key. Though you won’t know what specific prompt the test will require, you can expect certain common topics. You can search online or use study guides to determine which prompts usually appear on each test.

On test day, you should begin by creating an outline that lists three main points in response to the prompt. Using these points, work backwards to write a central thesis to guide the essay’s structure. Review what you’ve written to ensure that the essay actually responds to the prompt at hand. Be sure to leave time to correct spelling, grammar, and stylistic errors.

Research Papers

Like essays, research papers follow a long-form structure. Unlike an essay, which heavily relies on the writer’s point of view, a research paper presents an in-depth investigation of a topic using data, expert opinions, and insights. While an essay evaluates general critical thinking and writing skills, a research paper tests your knowledge, research skills, and original contributions. Research papers also allow you to prove you understand what has been argued and discovered about a topic. Research papers, especially at the graduate and doctoral levels, require independent research and analyses. These papers sometimes take months or years to complete.

To write a successful research paper, you should pick a topic relevant to your interests and the nursing field. Possibilities include elderly care challenges, patient safety and ethics, mental health treatment and regulations in the U.S., and nursing shortages and possible solutions. Whatever your choice, you must plan accordingly. Advanced papers such as dissertations may require funding or help from professors. Research papers often consist of the following sections: abstract, introduction, literature review, methods, results, discussion, conclusion, and references. You should keep this general structure in mind as you prepare notes and outlines.

How Do You Write a Nursing Essay?

In nursing school, essay writing includes academic papers, personal narratives, and professional compositions. You should become familiar with each of the five major forms below. There are many similarities between these essay types, such as an overarching thesis and a supportive, logical structure. You should support claims with factual, statistical, anecdotal, and rhetorical evidence. However, each form requires distinct skills to achieve specific results.

Comparative

Cause and effect, citations guide for nursing students.

Citations allow readers to know where information came from. By citing sources, you avoid plagiarizing or stealing another person’s ideas, research, language, and analyses. Whether intentional or unintentional, plagiarism is one of the most egregious errors one can make. Consequences for plagiarism include automatic course failure, disciplinary actions from the university, and even legal repercussions. You should take special care to ensure you properly cite sources.

American Psychological Association (APA) Style

APA is the most commonly used style among natural scientists, social scientists, educators, and nurses. Like other citation styles, APA emphasizes clarity of font style, font size, spacing, and paragraph structure. APA citations focus on publication date, and in most cases, the date comes right after the author’s name. This order makes the style particularly useful for scientists, who value new research and updates on current findings. For more information on APA style, visit this official website .

(Author and year of publication, page number) “Punishment, then, will tend to become the most hidden part of the penal process” (Foucault, 1977, p. 9).

Chicago Manual of Style (CMS)

CMS (also known as CMOS or, simply, Chicago) features two citation systems, the notes and bibliography, and the author and date. This style is used primarily by historians, who place high importance on a text’s origin. The notes and bibliography include a superscript number with a corresponding footnote or endnote. Scientific professionals use the author and date citation, a generic parenthetical system with similarities to other citation styles. The CMS official website provides additional information, including changes to citation systems in the current edition.

“Punishment, then, will tend to become the most hidden part of the penal process”. 1 1. Michel Foucault, trans. Alan Sheridan, Discipline and Punish: The Birth of the Prison (New York: Pantheon Books, 1977), 9.

(Author and year of publication, page number) “Punishment, then, will tend to become the most hidden part of the penal process” (Foucault 1977, 9).

Modern Language Association (MLA) Format

MLA format traces its history to 1951 when it was first published as a thin booklet. Today, MLA is the primary format used by academics and professionals in humanities, English, literature, media studies, and cultural studies. To adapt to the rapid growth of new mediums over the past few decades, MLA updates its citation system. Visit the MLA Style Center for in-depth information on new guidelines and ongoing changes. In general, in text citations consist of author and page number, or just page number if the author’s name appears in the text.

(Author and page number) “Punishment, then, will tend to become the most hidden part of the penal process” (Foucault 9).

Associated Press (AP) Style

Published in 1952, the original AP Stylebook was marketed to journalists and other professionals related to the Associated Press. AP now stands as the go-to style for professionals in business, public relations, media, mass communications, and journalism. AP style prioritizes brevity and accuracy. The style includes specific guidelines regarding technological terms, titles, locations, and abbreviations and acronyms. Unlike the previous styles, AP does not use parenthetical or in-text citations. Rather, writers cite sources directly in the prose. For more information, including style-checking tools and quizzes, visit the Associated Press Stylebook .

In the book, “Discipline and Punish: The Birth of the Prison,” first published in English in 1977, philosopher Michel Foucault argues that “Punishment, then, will tend to become the most hidden part of the penal process”.

Which Style Should Nursing Students Use?

Because nurses rely on scientific terms and information, professionals in the field usually use APA style. Regardless of the purpose and specific genre of your text, you should always strive for concise, objective, and evidenced-based writing. You can expect to learn APA style as soon as you enroll in a major course. However, you should also prepare to learn other styles as part of your academic training. For example, freshman composition classes tend to focus on MLA guidelines.

Common Writing Mistakes Students Make

Active vs. passive voice.

Active and passive voice represent two different ways to present the same piece of information. Active voice focuses on the subject performing an action. For example, the dog bites the boy. This format creates clear, concise, and engaging writing. Using active voice, nurses might write, I administered patient care at 11:00. Passive voice, on the other hand, focuses on the object of the sentence or the action being performed. For example, the boy was bitten by the dog. A passive sentence is usually one that contains the verb “to be.” Using passive voice, you might write, patient care was administered at 11:00.

Professionals in the sciences often use passive voice in their writing to create an objective tone and authorial distance. Passive voice can prioritize specific terms, actions, evidence, or research over the writer’s presence. Additionally, nurses use passive voice because it is usually clear that the reported thoughts, actions, and opinions come from them. However, you must also learn how to use active voice.

Punctuation

There are 14 punctuation marks in the English language, each with multiple and sometimes overlapping uses. Additionally, certain punctuation marks only make sense in highly specific and nuanced grammatical instances. To master punctuation, you must learn through practice, particularly by revising your own writing.

For example, colons and semicolons are often used interchangeably, when they actually serve distinct purposes. Generally used before itemized lists, colons stand in for the phrases “here is what I mean” or “that is to say.” For example, I am bringing three things to the picnic: applesauce, napkins, and lemonade. Semicolons separate two independent clauses connected through topic or meaning. For example, It was below zero; Ricardo wondered if he would freeze to death. Comma splices, which create run on sentences, are another common mistake. You can identify a comma splice by learning the differences between an independent and dependent clause.

Grammar refers to the rules of a particular language system. Grammar determines how users can structure words and form sentences with coherent meaning. Aspects include syntax (the arrangement of words to convey their mutual relations in a sentence) and semantics (how individual words and word groups are understood). Unless you major in writing, literature, etymology, or another related field, you generally won’t examine English grammar deeply. Through years of cognitive development and practice, native users implicitly understand how to effectively employ the language.

Distinct grammatical systems exist for each language and, sometimes, even within a single language. For example, African American Vernacular English uses different syntactic rules than General American English. You should learn grammatical terms and definitions. Common errors include subject/verb agreement, sentence fragments, dangling modifiers, and vague or incorrect pronoun usage. Hasty writers can also misuse phonetically similar words (your/you’re, its/it’s, and there/their/they’re).

Writing Resources for Nursing Students

Apa style central, reviewed by:.

Shrilekha Deshaies, MSN, RN

Shri Deshaies is a nurse educator with over 20 years of experience teaching in hospital, nursing school, and community settings. Deshaies’ clinical area of expertise is critical care nursing and she is a certified critical care nurse. She has worked in various surgical ICUs throughout her career, including cardiovascular, trauma, and neurosurgery.

Shri Deshaies is a paid member of our Healthcare Review Partner Network. Learn more about our review partners here .

Page last reviewed November 30, 2021

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

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Essay Sample on Why I Want to Be A Nurse

Nursing is a rewarding and challenging career that has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether your motivation is to help others, attain financial freedom, or both, writing a “Why I Want To Be A Nurse” essay is an excellent opportunity to express your passion and commitment to the field.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why you might want to become a nurse and provide you with helpful tips and inspiration for writing a powerful and persuasive essay .

Why I Want to Be A Nurse (Free Essay Sample)

Nursing is a career that offers a unique combination of hands-on care and emotional support to those in need. There are many reasons why someone might choose to become a nurse, including:

The Empathy and Altruism of Nursing

I have a strong desire to help people and hope to become a nurse. I think nursing is the best way for me to make a difference in other people’s lives because it combines my natural empathy and desire to help people. Nursing gives me a chance to positively touch people’s lives, which has always attracted me to the thought of doing so.

I saw the beneficial effects that nurses may have on people’s life as a child. I have always been moved by the kindness and concern they have for their patients. The small gestures of kindness, like holding a patient’s hand or speaking encouraging words, have always touched me. I think nurses have a special power to change people’s lives and leave a lasting impression, and I want to contribute to that.

Additionally, I think that becoming a nurse is a great and selfless job. To provide for their patients and ensure they are secure and comfortable, nurses put their own needs on hold. I absolutely respect this kind of dedication to helping others, and I aim to exhibit it in my own nursing career.

The Economic Benefits of Nursing

The financial stability that comes with being a nurse is one of the reasons I wish to pursue this career. Nursing is a field that is in high demand, which translates to a wealth of job opportunities and competitive salaries.  This profession offers the chance for a stable income, which makes it a good choice for people who want to secure their financial future.

Nursing not only gives economic freedom but also a flexible work schedule that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Many nurses can choose to work part-time or in a variety of places, such as clinics, hospitals, and schools..

A Love for the Science and Art of Nursing

To succeed in the unique field of nursing, one must have both artistic talent and scientific knowledge. This mix is what initially drew me to the thought of becoming a nurse. The human body and its mechanisms have always captivated me, and I enjoy learning about the science that underpins healthcare. But nursing requires more than just a scientific knowledge of the body. It also requires an artistic understanding of the patient and their needs.. Nursing is a demanding and fulfilling job since it combines science and art, which is why I’m drawn to it.

I saw as a child the effect nurses had on patients and their families. Their compassion and understanding have motivated me to seek a profession in nursing because they frequently offer comfort and help in the hardest of situations. My enthusiasm for the science and art of nursing will undoubtedly help me to have a good influence on other people’s lives. I want to work as a nurse and improve the lives of the people I take care of, whether it be by giving medication, educating patients, or just being a reassuring presence.

Continuous Professional Development in Nursing

I think the nursing industry is dynamic and always changing, which gives people a lot of chances to learn and grow. I would have the chance to continuously advance my knowledge and abilities in this sector if I choose to become a nurse. In turn, this would enable me to better care for my patients and stay abreast of professional developments.

There are several different nursing specialties available as well. There are many options, including critical care, pediatrics, gerontology, and surgical nursing. Because of the variety of disciplines available, nurses have the chance to develop their interests and find their niche. 

I am certain that a career in nursing will provide me the chance to pursue my passion for healthcare while also allowing me to grow professionally.

Nursing is a fulfilling and noble career that offers a mix of hands-on care, emotional support, and professional growth. I am inspired by the positive impact nurses have on patients and their families and aim to offer my own empathy and compassion. The nursing industry is constantly changing, providing ample opportunities for growth and job prospects with financial stability. The ultimate reward in a nursing career is the satisfaction of making a difference in people’s lives.

Tips for Writing A Compelling Why I Want To Be A Nurse Essay

Now that you understand the reasons why someone might want to become a nurse, it’s time to learn how to write a compelling essay. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get started:

Create an Outline

Before you start writing, it’s important to identify the main points you’ll discuss in your essay. This will help you stay organized and make your essay easier to read.

Start with an Attention-grabbing Introduction

Your introduction is your chance to make a good first impression and engage the reader. Start with a hook that captures the reader’s attention, such as a surprising statistic or personal story .

Be Specific and Personal

Rather than making general statements about why you want to become a nurse, be specific and personal. Share your own experiences, motivations, and passions, and explain why nursing is the right career choice for you.

Highlight your Skills and Qualifications

Nursing is a demanding and complex profession that requires a wide range of skills and qualifications. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills, such as compassion, communication, and problem-solving, and explain how they make you a good fit for the nursing field.

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Home — Essay Samples — Nursing & Health — Nursing — Nursing Career Goals: Impact, Specialization, and Future in Healthcare

Nursing Career Goals: Impact, Specialization, and Future in Healthcare

• Categories: Nursing

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Words: 525 |

Published: Mar 8, 2024

Words: 525 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Immediate career goal, continuing education and specialization, long-term career goals, foundational and disciplinary skills.

• Strong Communication skills: Nursing involves communicating with patients, patients’ families, physicians, and other healthcare professionals. Without effective communication, nursing practice is nearly impossible to achieve. Communication requires active listening skills, empathy, and the ability to provide clear and concise explanations.
• Critical Thinking: Nursing requires the ability to think critically and quickly evaluate potential options and solutions. When working as a nurse, in a fast-paced healthcare setting, the ability to solve complex problems quickly and under pressure is vital.
• Technical Competencies: Being a nurse involves technical skills , such as medication administration, wound care, and identifying and monitoring health issues. The proficiency in these skills equips the nurse to respond properly to different healthcare scenarios.
• Compassion: Nursing is an emotionally and physically demanding career; the ability to empathize with patients while also maintaining a professional distance is important. Demonstrating genuine care, concern, and understanding for patients can be critical in promoting their recovery, wellness, and positive experience during the healthcare encounter.

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Nursing Essay Topics

Top Nursing Essay Topics for Your Next Assignment

14 min read

Published on: May 6, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Are you struggling to come up with nursing essay topics that are both interesting and relevant to your studies? 

As a nursing student, you're faced with the challenge of balancing your coursework with clinical experiences and practical training. But don’t worry, we're here to help!

In this blog, we've compiled a range of nursing paper topics that cover various aspects of nursing practice and theory. By exploring these prompts you'll be able to craft a compelling essay that showcases your potential as a future healthcare professional.

So, let's begin with the first list of topics!

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Nursing School Essay Topics

• The importance of effective communication in nursing practice
• Addressing health disparities in underserved communities: a nursing perspective
• Nursing leadership and management: strategies for successful team building
• Ethical dilemmas in nursing: balancing patient autonomy and professional obligations
• Enhancing patient safety through evidence-based nursing practice
• The role of nursing in chronic disease management and prevention
• Nursing education and career development: challenges and opportunities
• Nursing informatics: leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes
• Promoting cultural competence in nursing practice: strategies for success
• The impact of COVID-19 on nursing practice and the healthcare system

Nursing Admission Essay Topics

• How my life experiences have prepared me for a career in nursing
• Overcoming challenges to pursue a career in nursing
• My passion for nursing and how it began
• The importance of empathy and communication skills in nursing
• Diversity and cultural competence in nursing
• How nursing aligns with my personal and professional goals
• The role of technology in modern nursing practice
• Nursing ethics and the importance of patient-centered care
• Reflection on a meaningful patient interaction and its impact on my nursing career
• The challenges and rewards of being a nurse leader.

Professional Nursing Essay Ideas

• The evolution of nursing: From Florence Nightingale to modern practice
• Addressing burnout and compassion fatigue in nursing: Strategies for self-care
• The importance of advocacy in nursing: Ensuring patient rights and social justice
• The role of interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving positive patient outcomes
• The future of nursing education: Adapting to changing healthcare needs
• Nursing and healthcare policy: Understanding the political landscape
• Nursing research: Utilizing evidence-based practice to improve patient care
• Promoting health equity in nursing practice: Recognizing and addressing health disparities
• The intersection of technology and nursing: Opportunities and challenges
• Global health and nursing: Addressing healthcare disparities in low- and middle-income countries.

Persuasive Nursing Essay Topics

• Should hospitals and healthcare organizations be required to implement nurse-to-patient staffing ratios to improve patient outcomes?
• Should nurses be allowed to prescribe certain medications and treatments to improve patient access to care?
• Should more resources be dedicated to nursing research to inform evidence-based practice and improve patient outcomes?
• Should nursing education place greater emphasis on pain management to better serve patients with chronic pain?
• Should healthcare organizations invest in more technology to improve patient monitoring and reduce errors?
• Should nurses be given more autonomy in decision-making to improve patient outcomes?
• Should healthcare organizations prioritize patient-centered care over cost-cutting measures?
• Should healthcare organizations offer more support and resources for nurses to prevent burnout and improve job satisfaction?
• Should more attention be given to patient education to improve patient self-management and outcomes?
• Should organizations invest in more cultural competency training for nurses to better serve diverse patient populations?

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Nursing Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Should nurses be allowed to prescribe medication independently?
• Is it ethical for healthcare facilities to mandate flu vaccination for nurses and other healthcare workers?
• Should nursing students be required to pass a standardized competency exam before being licensed as a registered nurse?
• Is mandatory overtime for nurses an effective strategy for addressing staffing shortages?
• Should advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) be granted full practice authority?
• Should nurses be required to report colleagues who exhibit unsafe or unprofessional behavior?
• Should nursing homes be required to maintain minimum staffing ratios for nurses and certified nursing assistants?
• Should nurses be allowed to assist terminally ill patients with voluntary euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide?
• Should healthcare facilities be held responsible for workplace violence against nurses and other healthcare workers?
• Should nurses be allowed to unionize and engage in collective bargaining?

Reflective Essay Topics Nursing

• Lessons learned from a challenging patient interaction
• A personal experience that highlighted the importance of communication in nursing
• How a nursing mentor or preceptor helped shape your professional development
• The impact of cultural competency on your nursing practice
• A case where you advocated for a patient's rights and how it influenced your nursing practice
• A situation where you made a mistake and the lessons learned from it
• A difficult ethical dilemma you faced in your nursing practice and how you navigated it
• A memorable patient case that challenged your clinical skills and knowledge
• How nursing education has influenced your nursing practice and professional development
• Reflections on the importance of self-care for nurses and how you prioritize it in your own practice.

Compare and Contrast Nursing Essay Topics

• Compare and contrast the healthcare outcomes of patients suffering from chronic illnesses who have access to regular nursing care versus those who do not.
• Compare and contrast the incidence of racial discrimination in nursing care between urban and rural areas.
• Compare and contrast the health risks associated with nursing care in acute care settings versus primary care settings.
• Compare and contrast the effectiveness of medication-based treatments versus non-pharmacological interventions for managing pain in patients suffering from chronic illnesses.
• Compare and contrast the communication styles and techniques used by nurses in caring for patients from different cultural backgrounds.
• Compare and contrast the approaches to patient education used by nurses in acute care settings versus those in community health settings.
• Compare and contrast the nursing interventions used for preventing and treating pressure ulcers in patients who are bedridden versus those who are mobile.
• Compare and contrast the use of traditional nursing care models versus patient-centered care models in addressing the needs of patients suffering from mental health disorders.
• Compare and contrast the ethical considerations involved in providing nursing care to patients who are terminally ill versus those who are not.
• Compare and contrast the nursing interventions used to prevent and treat complications associated with diabetes in pediatric versus adult patients.

Nursing Informatics Essay Topics

• The role of nursing informatics in improving patient safety
• The benefits and challenges of implementing electronic health records in nursing practice
• Using data analytics to identify trends and improve patient outcomes
• The impact of nursing informatics on clinical decision-making
• The importance of user-centered design in nursing informatics
• The ethical implications of using patient data in nursing informatics
• The role of telehealth in nursing informatics and improving access to care
• The future of nursing informatics and emerging technologies in healthcare
• The impact of nursing informatics on interdisciplinary collaboration and communication
• Using nursing informatics to promote population health and improve public health outcomes.

Evidence-Based Practice Nursing Essay Topics

• The importance of evidence-based practice in nursing and its impact on patient outcomes
• A case study of the successful implementation of evidence-based practice in nursing
• Strategies for overcoming barriers to evidence-based practice in nursing
• The role of nursing research in supporting evidence-based practice
• The challenges of translating research into practice in nursing
• The importance of collaboration between nurses and other healthcare professionals in promoting evidence-based practice
• A comparison of different evidence-based practice models in nursing
• The role of technology in promoting evidence-based practice in nursing
• The impact of evidence-based practice on healthcare disparities and equity
• The future of evidence-based practice in nursing and emerging trends in the field.

Good Nursing Essay Topics

• The impact of caring on nursing practice and patient outcomes
• Strategies for preventing and managing nursing burnout
• The importance of cultural competency in nursing practice and improving patient care
• The role of nursing in promoting health equity and addressing healthcare disparities
• A personal experience that influenced your decision to become a nurse
• The impact of technology on nursing practice and patient care
• The importance of interprofessional collaboration in nursing practice
• The role of nursing leadership in shaping healthcare policy and practice
• Ethical issues in nursing practice and their impact on patient care
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nursing practice and healthcare delivery.

Interesting Nursing Essay Topics Ideas

• The benefits and challenges of working in rural nursing
• The role of simulation in nursing education and its impact on clinical preparedness
• A personal experience that highlighted the importance of compassion in nursing practice
• The impact of social determinants of health on nursing practice and patient outcomes
• The role of nurses in promoting mental health and wellbeing
• A comparison of different nursing specialties and their unique challenges and rewards
• The importance of patient-centered care in nursing practice and its impact on patient outcomes
• The role of nurses in addressing the opioid epidemic and promoting safe pain management practices
• The impact of environmental factors on nursing practice and patient outcomes
• The benefits and challenges of international nursing and working in global health.

Nursing Essay Questions

• How has your understanding of nursing changed since starting your education and clinical practice?
• What is the most significant challenge you have faced as a nursing student or professional, and how did you overcome it?
• How has the nursing profession evolved over time, and what do you see as its future direction?
• In your opinion, what are the most important qualities for a nurse to possess, and why?
• How can nursing education and practice be improved to better meet the needs of diverse patient populations?
• How can nurses effectively communicate and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care?
• What role does evidence-based practice play in nursing, and how can it be effectively integrated into clinical practice?
• What ethical dilemmas do nurses face in their daily practice, and how can they be addressed?
• How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted nursing practice and healthcare delivery, and what lessons can be learned from this experience?
• How can nurses play a greater role in promoting public health and preventing disease in their communities?

Mental Health Nursing Essay Topics

• The impact of stigma on mental health care and nursing practice
• A comparison of different mental health nursing interventions and their effectiveness
• The importance of trauma-informed care in mental health nursing practice
• The role of nursing in promoting recovery-oriented care in mental health settings
• The benefits and challenges of telepsychiatry and its impact on mental health nursing practice
• The impact of cultural factors on mental health nursing practice and patient outcomes
• The importance of self-care for mental health nurses and strategies for preventing burnout
• The role of nursing in addressing the mental health needs of diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities
• A personal experience that highlighted the importance of compassion in mental health nursing practice
• The role of mental health nurses in the prevention of suicide amongst adolescents.

Breastfeeding Essay Topics for Nursing Students

• The benefits of breastfeeding for mother and baby and the role of nursing in promoting and supporting breastfeeding
• A comparison of different breastfeeding positions and techniques and their effectiveness
• The impact of cultural factors on breastfeeding practices and nursing interventions
• The importance of evidence-based practice in promoting breastfeeding and improving outcomes for mothers and babies
• Strategies for addressing common breastfeeding challenges and promoting successful breastfeeding outcomes
• The impact of workplace policies on breastfeeding practices and the role of nursing in advocating for supportive policies
• The role of nursing in addressing disparities in breastfeeding rates among different populations, including low-income and minority communities
• The benefits and challenges of breastfeeding for preterm and medically fragile infants and the role of nursing in providing specialized care
• The impact of breastfeeding on maternal mental health and the role of nursing in addressing postpartum depression and anxiety
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breastfeeding practices and nursing interventions.

Public Health Nursing Topics

• The role of public health nursing in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity
• The impact of social determinants of health on public health nursing practice and patient outcomes
• Strategies for addressing common public health challenges, including infectious disease outbreaks and environmental hazards
• The importance of community engagement and advocacy in public health nursing practice
• The impact of cultural factors on public health nursing practice and patient outcomes
• The role of nursing in addressing global health challenges, including maternal and child health, infectious diseases, and non-communicable diseases
• The benefits and challenges of interprofessional collaboration in public health nursing practice
• The importance of evidence-based practice in public health nursing and its impact on patient outcomes
• The impact of technology on public health nursing practice, including data analytics and telehealth
• The role of public health nursing in promoting health education and disease prevention, including the importance of health screenings and immunizations.

Infection Control/Prevention Nursing Topics

• The importance of hand hygiene in preventing healthcare-associated infections
• The role of the infection preventionist in promoting a culture of safety and reducing the risk of infections
• Strategies for preventing the spread of antibiotic-resistant organisms in healthcare settings
• The impact of environmental cleaning and disinfection on infection control
• The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings
• The role of vaccination in infection prevention, including vaccine hesitancy and strategies to improve vaccination rates
• The impact of COVID-19 on infection control and prevention practices in healthcare settings
• The impact of nursing leadership and education on infection control practices
• The role of surveillance in detecting and preventing infections in healthcare settings
• The challenges of infection control and prevention in long-term care facilities and strategies for improving outcomes.

Midwife, Neonatal, and Pediatric Nursing Essay Topics

• The importance of antenatal care and screening for maternal and fetal health
• The role of the midwife in providing support and care during labor and delivery
• Strategies for reducing maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity rates in low-resource settings
• The impact of perinatal mental health on maternal and neonatal outcomes
• The role of the neonatal nurse in caring for premature and critically ill infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
• The impact of developmental care on the health and well-being of premature infants
• The importance of family-centered care in neonatal and pediatric nursing practice
• The role of the pediatric nurse in caring for children with chronic illnesses and disabilities
• The impact of trauma-informed care on the health outcomes of pediatric patients
• The importance of nursing leadership and education in improving neonatal and pediatric healthcare outcomes.

Trauma and Acute Care Nursing Topics

• The role of the trauma nurse in managing critically injured patients in the emergency department
• The impact of trauma-informed care on patient outcomes in the acute care setting
• Strategies for reducing preventable adverse events in the acute care setting
• The role of the nurse in managing acute pain in critically ill patients
• The impact of delirium on patient outcomes in the acute care setting
• The importance of early mobilization in the management of critically ill patients
• The role of the nurse in caring for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• The impact of sepsis on patient outcomes in the acute care setting
• Strategies for reducing hospital readmissions in patients with complex medical conditions
• The role of the nurse in caring for patients with acute neurological emergencies.

How To Choose a Topic for a Nursing Essay?

When it comes to choosing a topic for a nursing essay, there are several factors you should consider. Here are some steps to help you choose a nursing essay prompt:

• Identify your interests: Start by thinking about topics that interest you or that you are passionate about. This can help you stay engaged and motivated throughout the essay-writing process.
• Consider your audience : Think about who your audience will be, and choose a topic that will be relevant and interesting to them. For example, if you are writing for a nursing journal, you may want to choose a topic related to current nursing practices or research.
• Focus on a specific aspect of nursing: Nursing is a broad field, so it's important to narrow down your focus to a specific area of nursing. For example, you could write about a specific disease or condition, or a specific nursing intervention.
• Research the topic: Before finalizing your topic, do some preliminary research to make sure there is enough information available on the topic. Look for scholarly articles, books, and other reliable sources to ensure that your topic is well-supported.
• Consult with your instructor: Be sure to consult with your instructor to ensure that your topic meets the assignment requirements.

In summary,

We hope these nursing essay prompts have inspired you to write an outstanding essay that showcases your unique qualities.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, writing a nursing entrance essay.

Hey everyone, I'm currently applying to nursing programs and need to write an entrance essay. Any advice on what to include and how to structure it? Did any of you go through this process and can share some tips? Thanks a lot!

Hi there! Writing an entrance essay for nursing programs can be both exciting and challenging. Here are some tips that may help you create a strong and compelling essay:

1. Start with a captivating opening: Your opening paragraph should grab the reader's attention and make them want to learn more about you and your passion for nursing. An interesting anecdote, a powerful quote, or a thought-provoking statement can be an effective way to begin.

2. Showcase your motivation: Discuss why you want to pursue a career in nursing. Share any personal experiences or stories that have inspired you to choose this path. You can also mention your long-term goals and how the program fits into your plans.

3. Highlight your unique qualities: Nursing is a profession that values empathy, compassion, and resilience. Reflect on occasions where you displayed these traits in your personal or professional life. Share examples that demonstrate your commitment to helping others and showcase your ability to communicate and work well within a team.

4. Describe relevant experiences: Discuss any volunteer work, internships, or employment that relate to nursing or healthcare. This can help emphasize your dedication to the field and showcase your willingness to learn and gain practical skills.

5. Structure your essay: A standard structure for your entrance essay could include an introduction, two or three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. In the introduction, briefly introduce your motivation for pursuing nursing. In the body paragraphs, delve more deeply into your experiences and qualities. Finally, in the conclusion, summarize your main points, restate your passion for nursing, and express your enthusiasm for joining the program.

6. Edit and revise: Be sure to proofread your essay multiple times and seek feedback from friends, family, or teachers. This will ensure that it is clear, well-written, and free of any grammatical or punctuation errors.

7. Be genuine: Lastly, remember to be true to yourself and tell your story in an authentic and genuine manner. Admissions committees want to get to know the real you, so focus on being honest and sincere in your writing.

Good luck with your entrance essay, and I hope these tips have been helpful!

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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How to write a personal statement for nursing school.

Reviewed by:

Jonathan Preminger

Former Admissions Committee Member, Hofstra-Northwell School of Medicine

Reviewed: 6/19/23

Writing a personal statement for nursing school can be a daunting task, but we’re here to help! Here’s everything you need to know about writing a personal statement for nursing school.

Writing your personal statement is a nerve-wracking experience, no matter what program you’re applying for . You may be wondering: “what are nursing schools looking for in a personal statement?” or, “how can I make my personal statement for nursing school stand out?” Lucky for you, we’ve got some answers. 

Here we’ll cover everything you need to know about writing a personal statement for nursing school. We’ve included a breakdown of the components to include, examples of nursing school personal statements, and tips to improve your own. 

Let’s get started!

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

What Is a Nursing School Personal Statement?

When applying to nursing schools , you’ll most likely notice that most applications require a personal statement. A personal statement is a short essay, typically no longer than two pages, that tells your target schools a little bit about who you are. 

Each school has different expectations for the length and contents of your personal statement, so make sure to check the specific requirements of your target schools. Some common topics include your personal goals for nursing school and why you want to become a nurse.

Nursing School Personal Statement Format

Before writing your personal statement for nursing school, you should plan out what you want to include. If your school does not ask you to answer a specific question with your essay, here is a list of what you should include in your nursing school personal statement.

An Introduction

The introductory paragraph should focus on what brought you to this point. Your school primarily wants to get to know you as a candidate through your personal statement. Your intro should include things like:

• How you first became interested in nursing
• What inspires you about becoming a nurse
• What you intend to achieve through a nursing degree

In this paragraph, your main goal is to introduce yourself and give the admissions committee a bit of background on your passion for nursing. Perhaps you have a family member who inspired you to pursue nursing, you grew up near a hospital, or you’ve struggled with health issues yourself - these are all great examples of an origin story. 

Think to yourself: “If my journey into nursing school was a movie, how would it begin?”

Body Paragraph(s)

In the body paragraph(s) of your nursing school personal statement, you can include a bit about your achievements. However, this isn’t the place to simply list your achievements. 

Think about how your experiences helped you to develop skills for nursing school . Include things like:

• How you’ve furthered your interest in nursing through experience (both in and out of school)
• How your achievements make you a good fit for the program
• Specific things about the program that interests you

The body portion of your essay should contain the majority of the information you want to include. Make sure to only include accomplishments if they help to explain how you’ll contribute to the program. Your CV will list any other achievements that don’t come into play here.

A Strong Conclusion

Your personal statement should end on a positive note. Think about summarizing your statement by looking toward the future. Include things like:

• Your future ambitions following nursing school
• What you’ll be able to contribute to the program 

The end of your body paragraph(s) should mention what you hope to achieve in the future with your nursing degree and lead into your conclusion. The final sentences of your personal statement should further state your passion for your program and how you’ll be a great fit at your target school. 

What Not to Write in a Personal Statement for Nursing School

Before getting into our tips and examples, let’s go over what not to include in your personal statement for nursing school. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when crafting your personal statement. 

Keep it Simple

Your personal statement should be authentic and genuine, but make sure to keep the brief in mind while you’re writing. As mentioned above, a personal statement is typically no longer than two pages in length. 

You should absolutely include some personal anecdotes; in fact, we encourage it! Just make sure to stick to the relevant parts of your story and not to elaborate too much on areas that are not relevant to your application. 

Do Not Reiterate Your CV

Your personal statement is an essay, not a resume. Keep in mind that your application already contains all of your achievements on your CV, transcripts, and other application materials. 

Your personal statement is about understanding your passion and motivations. You can use examples from your CV to further assert your interest in the program, but only if you can elaborate on how they’ve specifically helped you on your journey to nursing school. 

Tips for Writing a Stellar Nursing Personal Statement

Let’s go over a few tips on how you can improve your personal statement. Using these tips can help to make your personal statement and essays for your nursing school application stand out while remaining authentic and genuine. 

Create A Timeline

When writing your personal statement, your focus should be on telling your story. Creating a clear timeline of events can help to effectively tell the story of how you decided to apply for nursing. 

Start with how you became interested in nursing, develop your story with experiences that have cultivated your knowledge, and conclude by talking about your program and your future goals. A timeline will make your essay easy to read and give the admissions committee a good idea of your journey so far.

Stick To the Brief

If your target school(s) give you a specific prompt for your personal statement, make sure to refer back to the prompt while writing your essay to ensure you’re staying on track. 

For example, if your prompt asks you a question, be sure to answer the question at the beginning, the end, and throughout your essay. Your personal statement shouldn’t be vague or veer too far off course. 

Speak From the Heart

It is crucial in your nursing personal statement to share what makes you unique . This is your chance to show the admissions committee why you’d be a perfect fit in their program and demonstrate what you bring to the table. 

Include genuine experiences that have pushed you toward nursing throughout your life. Conveying your passions and motivations is critical in your personal statement for nursing school.

Do Your Research 

One great way to make your nursing personal statement stand out is to do thorough research on your program and include it in your piece. Showing your passion for the specific program. you’re applying to can give you an edge over others and impress the admissions committee. 

When you include your research, be sure to add it organically into your writing. Use your research as a way to connect your personal experiences to the program rather than simply listing information.

Nursing School Personal Statement Examples

Here are two nursing personal statement examples that were written successfully. We’ve also included explanations of how they are good examples to help you improve your own personal statement. 

*Important note: Do not use our samples in your nursing school application. These examples are meant to serve as a guide when crafting your own original personal statement for nursing school. 

Example #1: Indeed ’s Nursing School Personal Statement Sample

“I walked backward down the hill, my arms supporting the weight of the wheelchair as its wheels rolled slowly in reverse. Sunlight danced through the trees around us and shone in my grandmother's hair as she sat inside the wheelchair. I couldn't see my grandmother's face from that angle, but I could hear her laughing with joy as she enjoyed the outdoors for the first time in weeks. My grandmother came to live with my family two years ago after breaking her hip. Although she completed much of her recovery at our home, Nurse George came by every day to perform my grandmother's personal care tasks, monitor her vital signs and assist with her physical therapy exercises. George also taught me some basic patient care practices, such as how to support a wheelchair correctly while going downhill. I had never considered a career in nursing before, but George helped me see the rewards of helping people with their medical conditions and injuries. I am excited by this opportunity to apply to Fern Hill's College of Nursing because I appreciate your program's specialization in rehabilitation nursing. Being a part of my grandmother's recovery team has inspired me to pursue a nursing career that helps patients recover from injuries or medical conditions. I believe that your school's emphasis on assisting patients in regaining their independent skills can help me achieve these professional aspirations. Since realizing that I want to become a nurse, I have become a regular volunteer at Jefferson Rehabilitation Center. I mentor young people struggling with drug addictions and provide childcare for the children of rehabilitation patients. There is no feeling comparable to when a mentee or outgoing patient offers you a sincere "thank you." I can no longer imagine pursuing a career where I do not get to help people overcome their challenges and navigate their way to recovery. My experiences helping my grandmother and patients at Jefferson have taught me the value of empathy and communication. Frequently, my mentees simply want someone to listen to them. I do my best to give them a judgment-free space in which to share their stories. Whether the medical issue is emotional or physical, patients appreciate working with flexible and considerate people. I believe I embody these qualities by actively listening and letting patients talk at their own pace. I am ready to pursue a nursing career and learn about helping patients in a more professional and technical capacity. Fern Hill's College of Nursing is the ideal place to prepare for my future nursing career.”

Why this is a good example: In this example, the writer has done an excellent job of telling the story of how they became interested in nursing. They also develop a clear timeline of events from when they first thought about nursing to how they began developing their skills through volunteering. 

Most importantly, the candidate mentions specific reasons why they’re interested in the program and how they feel they can contribute to the school and field. 

Example #2: Johns Hopkins University Nursing Personal Statement Sample

“I grew up close to a hospital, where I watched patients go through the double doors for a variety of ailments. From a young age, this drove me to develop a strong interest in the field of medicine. I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the future that would allow me to take care of those in need. Through my courses in the natural sciences as well as social studies, I have continued to develop my knowledge in the field in order to be ready to continue my education. Now, I am ready to take the next step in my education by applying for the Nursing program at Johns Hopkins University.  Three years ago I completed a nursing shadowing internship that opened my eyes to many of the daily struggles of being a nurse. During my time in the clinic and on the wards, I had the opportunity to work In the critical care and trauma ward as well as In obstetrics and geriatrics. These various experiences showed me the diverse role that nurses play in a healthcare setting, and emphasized the importance of empathy and dedication to patient care.  Johns Hopkins University Is known worldwide for its focus on patient wellness and medical research. As a nursing student at Hopkins, I hope to not only further the institution's goal of providing exceptional patient care, but also to assist with the many clinical trials ongoing at the hospital that pave the way for new treatments. Through hands-on training with knowledgeable staff, I know that I will be able to make the most of my nursing training at Johns Hopkins and become a nursing professional that is capable of enhancing patient wellness in a healthcare setting.”

Why this is a good example: In this example, the writer develops a clear timeline and clearly defines their relevant information. The writer covers when they first became interested in nursing, courses they’ve taken, and what experiences have made them get serious about the profession. 

Finally, they include why they are specifically interested in the program at Johns Hopkins and conclude by adding what they will add to the program as a student.

FAQs: How to Write a Personal Statement for Nursing School

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about nursing school personal statements. 

1. Do All Nursing Schools Require A Personal Statement?

Almost all nursing schools require a personal statement, which can typically be described as a short essay (2 pages or less) that explains who you are and why you want to attend the school’s nursing program.

2. Is a Personal Statement for Nursing School an Essay?

Yes, a personal statement is a short essay that briefly describes your past, present, and future experiences in relation to nursing.

3. How Long Should A Nursing Personal Statement Be?

Each nursing school has different length requirements, which can typically be found in the prompt. If no length is specified, two pages or less is recommended. 

4. What Should I Include In My Nursing School Personal Statement?

Your nursing personal statement should include:

• Why you want to become a nurse
• What inspires you about nursing
• Elaborate on the experiences you’ve had that have taught you about nursing
• Program-specific reasons for your interest in the school
• How you intend to contribute to the program and the field of nursing

If your school’s personal statement asks a specific question, that question should be answered throughout your essay. 

5. Does Nursing Require Essays?

Yes, most nursing program applications require personal statement essays, and some require secondary (or supplemental) essays as well.

6. When Should I Write My Personal Statement for Nursing School?

You should begin writing your personal statement(s) for nursing school as soon as you receive the prompt. Make sure to give yourself an adequate amount of time to complete all sections of your application before the deadline.

7. How do you Start a Personal Statement for Nursing School?

To start a compelling nursing personal statement, there are a few different writing techniques you can use. You can start by introducing yourself, start by talking about how you became interested in nursing, or you can start “in the action” by cutting right into your story. 

Final Thoughts

Your personal statement for nursing school should be genuine, heartfelt, and express how you will make an excellent addition to your target school’s nursing program through a series of examples. 

Each personal statement you write should be adjusted to suit the individual program you are applying for. Sending a general personal statement with every application you submit is impersonal and not recommended. Make sure to follow your brief closely and map out your essay before writing it to ensure you include all of the relevant information. 

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Nursing Scholarship Essay Example

Home » Nursing Scholarship Essay Example

Wow! I never thought I would have my own scholarship , but this opportunity has come to fruition and I plan to use every dollar for the good of nursing. It is wonderful to be able to give back to the nursing profession, and it humbles me to be a part of this year’s recipient’s journey. I have been there, and nursing school is incredibly tough. To be able to ease the stress of that journey for a nurse pursuing his or her BSN is an honor !

I want to tell you why I believe scholarships are so important.

You always hear people talking about “nurse burnout”. Well, it is a real thing. Retirement is also a real thing. And the nursing shortage is a real thing . Therefore, we want and we need more nurses in this profession. I, personally, had to take out over $40,000 in student loans when I went to school, so I completely understand the need for scholarship and outside opportunities to fund your dreams. I want to live in a scholastic world where money does not stop one selfless human being from pursuing the most trusted profession in the world. Scholarships are super important to ensure that we can build up our profession with nurses for the future.

I would like to share an example of the Nurse Kelley Scholarship essay that I have written. It is completely true, and hopefully, this nursing scholarship essay example will give you a good idea of what we are looking for in a submission.

  There are many reasons someone might choose to go into the nursing profession. Maybe they “want to help people”. Maybe they love math and science. Maybe they want to give back to their community. Maybe their mom was a nurse. Whatever the reason may be, for most of us, it’s different. I chose to go into nursing because of a personal experience that I had when I was young. I lost my biological father to colon cancer, and I wanted to be a caring support system for other families going through what we did.  The strange thing about the many reasons people choose nursing, is that somehow, we are all still very connected in this choice.

You see, nursing is a profession where you have to take care of complete strangers, and we have signed on to do this for life.

Nursing is so incredibly unique and selfless in that what we do every single day is care for people who are at their most vulnerable moments, and we often times do it while missing something in our life that means something to us. We constantly sacrifice for our patients. We constantly give while barely taking.  The most important thing to remember is that we don’t mind. That’s what makes us different. We know what we have gotten ourselves into, and we love doing it. There is a special place in a nurse’s heart that draws them to the type of work that we do. And it brings us all together, our binding character trait.

I think I can say now that I guess my reason for going into nursing is a combination of everyone’s reason. They may spark from different experience, but we are intertwined in our methodology for career choice through our heart for others. I am PROUD to be a nurse!

I want to remind any nurse reading this that nursing will continue to choose you throughout your career. It is so funny how nursing just pulls you out of your everyday life as if to say, “nope, you don’t get to be a civilian today, you’re still a nurse”! I’ll give you an example. Four days after I was crowned Miss Colorado I was driving in my crown and sash away from an appearance as a car flipped over on our interstate and started on fire. Of course, I pulled over. A fireman also pulled over (that special place in our hearts, other service industry members have that too!), and we collectively (after removing the crown and sash) helped pull this man from his car and start working on him. It was wild. I remember shaking my head thinking, “thanks a lot, nursing”, and then giggling. How lucky I am to have been chosen by this profession!

Nursing is the best. It will be a part of you forever.

Congratulations on making this choice for your career. You won’t regret it.

All my love,

Nurse Kelley

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Seven Things You Can Do With a Bachelor's in Nursing

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The nursing field has no shortage of opportunities for professionals who want a flexible career with wide-ranging options for advancement. However, as a registered nurse with an associate degree, you may find it challenging to pursue leadership or specialty roles that require additional education

Not only that, more hospitals are requiring bachelor’s-level degree nurses in their facilities. According to the latest AACN survey on the Employment of New Nurse Graduates , 28 percent of employers require a bachelor's degree among new hires, while 72 percent strongly prefer it.

But what can you do with a bachelor's in nursing, and will the investment offer professional benefits? Here’s an overview of rewarding career paths you can pursue with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and the impact of this education.

Download our guide to discover which nursing degree is right for you.

What Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing?

A bachelor’s (BS) degree in nursing is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides the skills and knowledge to work as a registered nurse (RN).

“A bachelor's degree in nursing gives nurses a more well-rounded education as they move forward in their career,” says Deborah Roy, Director of Regis College’s RN-to-BS in Nursing degree program.

Students can pursue this degree after earning a high school diploma or through a bridge program after obtaining a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

While an associate degree is the minimum requirement to become a licensed RN, a bachelor's degree program develops clinical skills with a focus on:

• Critical thinking
• Public health

“This allows them to address more complex issues within the healthcare arena,” Roy continues.

A BS in nursing also makes nurses eligible for more career advancement opportunities down the line. This is because healthcare facilities require staff to hold a four-year degree for nursing leadership positions and specialized fields.

If you’re committed to the nursing field and want to continue growing in your career, consider these seven advanced nursing roles that are available to professionals with a BS in nursing degree.

What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Nursing?

1. nurse manager.

Nurse managers coordinate the nursing operations of a healthcare facility.

This can include:

• Staff management
• Resource allocation
• Regulatory compliance

Nurse managers are an integral part of the leadership team at a healthcare facility, responsible for implementing policies that improve patient care and create a safe environment. As a result, nurse managers earn an average annual salary of $104,830 .

Nurse managers need a BS in nursing to develop the leadership skills needed to effectively manage nursing teams. The curriculum covers critical areas of healthcare management that are essential for this role.

2. Nursing Research

Nurse research is an exciting field that offers many career opportunities. For example, a nurse researcher conducts studies, collects data, and investigates healthcare issues to continually improve and optimize best practices in nursing. These findings are published in scholarly journals and academic publications like the Journal of Advanced Nursing and the American Journal of Nursing .

This particular role requires extensive education though. Nurse researchers often hold a doctoral degree—either a PhD or DNP. However, if you’re interested in entering the research field, you will need to gain additional education with at least a bachelor’s degree.

Research topics can cover a variety of topics in nursing care, such as:

• Clinical interventions
• Patient outcomes
• Aging populations
• Nursing education

Nurse researchers can expect to earn a rewarding annual average salary of $97,088 , while assistant positions earn an average wage of $70,000 per year.

3. Telemedicine Nurse

With such a steep rise in telehealth visits , there’s a greater need for more effective coordinated virtual care. As a result, telemedicine nurses are becoming more in-demand over the years .

A telemedicine nurse collaborates with healthcare providers to deliver remote patient care. By communicating with patients online and by phone, nurses can assess symptoms, provide treatment recommendations, and offer assistance with tasks like managing medication and accessing medical services.

The average salary of a telemedicine nurse is $93,248 a year, but this often depends on your work experience.

Telemedicine nurses need a BS in nursing to navigate the complexities of delivering healthcare remotely. The curriculum ensures nurses are comfortable working with digital health tools and methods in providing high-quality, virtual care.

4. Quality Assurance Manager

Hospitals are increasingly adopting quality assurance methods focused on improving patient safety. This is why quality assurance managers are becoming a common role among nursing staff.

A quality assurance manager helps to maintain optimal patient care in a healthcare facility. They monitor the quality standards and adherence to safety protocols in the healthcare environment. The goal of quality assurance is to address care deficiencies, performance issues, and regulatory risks in a timely manner.

As a result, the role offers a competitive average annual salary of $88,469 .

Nurses aspiring to become quality assurance managers need a BS in nursing to understand the various healthcare policies, standards, and practices essential to the role. This is because BS in nursing coursework explores evidence-based practices and patient safety protocols, which are essential to effectively leading quality improvement initiatives.

5. Nurse Educator

Nurse educators provide training and mentorship for prospective nurses and continuing education for experienced professionals. After working in hands-on roles in clinical settings, nurse educators have the insight to develop curriculum, monitor student progress, and give lectures that encourage other nurses to think critically about best practices in patient care.

Professionals in nursing education careers typically earn an average salary of $84,180 a year.

Since many seasoned nurses transition into this role, it might be puzzling why a BS in nursing degree is needed. However, nurse educators need at least a BS in nursing to gain the academic knowledge and methodologies needed to effectively teach nursing. In addition, nurses need to earn a BS in nursing before enrolling in an MSN program—the educational requirement for most nurse educator positions.

6. Clinic Manager

A clinic manager is in charge of a healthcare facility’s daily operations, such as patient appointments, staff schedules, and budgeting. They also make sure the facility meets all required standards of cleanliness and safety and oversee administrative tasks, such as communicating with other healthcare providers.

A clinic manager’s average salary is $80,442 per year, depending on factors like the size, location, and specialization of the facility.

Clinic managers need a bachelor’s degree in nursing to acquire the comprehensive healthcare management skills and in-depth knowledge of nursing practice required to efficiently oversee clinic operations and ensure high-quality patient care.

7. Nurse Informaticist

Nurse informaticist roles combine health science with information technology and data analytics. Using a variety of software and databases, they design efficient systems for managing health records, create tools to support decision-making, and analyze data sets to identify trends or areas of improvement.

As gatekeepers of patient data, these skilled professionals are also responsible for protecting sensitive health data security, which earns them an average annual salary of $58,250 .

Since this role moves away from clinical work, it isn’t surprising that nurses need a BS in nursing to obtain this position. As a result, the BS in nursing curriculum aims to help students understand the integration of nursing science with information management and analytical sciences.

The Impact of a Bachelor’s Degree on Career Advancement

Working as an RN can be an incredibly satisfying career that never runs out of opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients. However, associate-level nurses are often barred from exciting opportunities to take their careers to the next level.

Earning a bachelor's degree, on the other hand, can increase your earning potential and open up a world of new career pathways that allow you to combine nursing experience with other professional interests. Even if you’re unsure what specialization interests you, this degree program can help you discover subject areas you’re passionate about.

“In a bachelor's degree program, we go into more detail as to, what are we doing this for?” Roy continues. “How do we interpret this data? How do we apply that to how we're going to care for our patients? Nurses learn critical leadership behaviors on how to build teams, how to communicate, and how to deal with things like instability in the workplace.”

No matter what roles interest you, getting an advanced education makes it possible to compete for jobs in specialized departments and at top-tier, magnet-status healthcare facilities.

Choosing the Right Bachelor’s in Nursing Program

Choosing the right bachelor’s degree in nursing program ensures you develop the right skills for your professional goals. As you compare programs, consider factors like student services, job placement rates, and opportunities for internships or research experience since these directly impact your ability to succeed both in and outside the classroom.

The online RN-to-BS program at Regis College is designed for current RNs with an associate degree who want to develop their existing knowledge and skills. The curriculum emphasizes emerging trends in healthcare, leadership, and advanced health assessment methods to equip you for the next phase of your nursing career.

To learn more about what you can do with a bachelor's in nursing, consult an admissions counselor and find out how Regis faculty members work with students to create a personalized curriculum plan.

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Weber State University takes Utah nurse to next level in life, career.

Sponsored: as a healthcare professional in utah and beyond, you must swiftly adapt and immediately respond to challenges in this dynamic and constantly changing field..

(Benjamin Zack | Weber State University) The J. Willard Marriott Allied Health Science Building at Weber State University in Ogden.

OGDEN, Utah — After 20 years as a nurse, Brian Maynard knew he’d need to go back to school to advance in his career. Luckily, he knew exactly which university would help him succeed.

Maynard works as a flight nurse at McKay-Dee Hospital and as a nurse practitioner at a local urgent care center – satisfying but physically demanding jobs.

“Age kind of starts creeping up on me,” Maynard said. “It’s a pretty physical job. It’s a young man’s game.”

Wanting to broaden his expertise and ensure a lasting impact in the healthcare field , Maynard decided to pursue a doctorate in nursing practice at Weber State University in Ogden. Maynard is no stranger to WSU, having previously earned an associate’s degree in nursing, an additional associate’s in paramedic studies and a bachelor’s of nursing from the university.

“I’ve never felt like a number at Weber State,” Maynard said. “Everyone here cares, and they want to see you succeed. It’s a big college with a small town type of community. It feels like home.”

Throughout his life and career, WSU and the Annie Taylor Dee School of Nursing have been a driving force behind Maynard’s accomplishments. But his path to obtaining his degrees wasn’t always smooth.

Benjamin Zack | Brian Maynard

He initially started his studies at a junior college, but didn’t connect with the coursework.

“It just wasn’t clicking. School wasn’t clicking, the environment wasn’t clicking,” he said.

Maynard briefly enrolled at WSU to study before he decided to join the army. There, he earned his licensed practical nursing (LPN) degree while serving in Fort Sam Houston, Texas. After a few years, he decided it was time to return to Utah and found a job at McKay-Dee Hospital as an LPN. There, he often worked alongside registered nurses and quickly realized that continuing his education would open more doors.

Weber State’s nursing school produces more nurses than any other institution in Utah. In 2022–2023, more than 800 nursing students graduated from WSU, ready to seamlessly make the transition from student to healthcare professional. At WSU, Maynard experienced firsthand the support and training needed to find continued success in his field.

“I’ve always felt supported here,” Maynard said. “Even when I was struggling to stay engaged at school in my bachelor’s program, everyone at Weber encouraged me and helped me get through it.”

He dreamed of one day becoming a flight nurse, knowing it would be a challenge. He rotated between working as a registered nurse in the ICU and the emergency room, while also serving as a firefighter paramedic in his local community. His unwavering determination paid off and became a flight nurse in 2013, working for Intermountain Life Flight and saving lives across the Mountain West.

“I just kind of progressed in my RN career. I really can make a career out of doing this. I enjoy it that much,” he said.

When the DNP was announced, almost a decade after he finished his bachelor’s degree, returning to Weber State was the natural choice. He was part of the university’s first class of DNP graduates in 2021.

“When the opportunity presented itself to be part of the first doctorate program , it was exciting,” Maynard said. “My family had so much history at Weber State, and I had been here so long, it just felt right. I wanted to continue my education and be part of Weber State history.”

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Humanities college majors doomed to dead-end jobs? Prospects are better than you think

Six-minute read.

WEST LONG BRANCH - Tyler Bane, a history major at Monmouth University, has heard the loud whispers that his studies would lead home to a dead end and underemployed, but as he nears graduation this spring, he sounded unconcerned.

Bane has been talking to Monmouth County about working for the park system. He is considering getting a graduate degree in public history. But even if those ideas fall through, he is confident he can find a landing spot with his degree.

"It allows you to become a better critical thinker, to analyze data in different ways and can give you a better understanding of different situations," said Bane, a 29-year-old senior from Middletown, who is attending college after a stint in the military. "(They are) skill sets that can be applied to any field, whether that's business or banking or really anything."

Arts and sciences professors and students are pushing back against new data showing them to have higher unemployment and underemployment rates early in their careers than career-oriented majors like engineering, accounting and nursing.

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They say the figure overlooks the number of humanities students who go on to graduate school and threatens to downplay so-called soft skills like communication, teamwork and critical thinking that employers routinely say are among the most important attributes they need in their work force.

It has prompted local counselors to remind students wanting to study liberal arts — along with parents who might be footing their tuition — that they are still marketable.

'What sets people apart?'

Thriving in the job market is "not just about the actual degree," said Jill Donovan, director of the career center at Brookdale Community College in Middletown. "It's about the skills that you need to be successful in that field. Because when you're in an interview, if everyone being interviewed has the exact same (qualifications) on paper, what sets people apart? So how can we be sure that you're going to be the clear choice?"

Bane has company. Reagan Dunn, 19, of Old Bridge, is not only majoring in history, but also minoring in art history, pursuing what has been a passion that he developed by going to museums when he was younger.

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Dunn said he came to appreciate the stories, the characters, the plots, the key events of history that have come together to influence the world today.

"I find it all fascinating and really engrossing," Dunn said of the history major. "I think it's really adaptable and can be used in a lot of different settings."

Bane and Dunn are in increasingly rare company. The number of humanities majors fell by 14% from 2012 to 2018. And the field of study accounted for just 10.2% of all bachelor's degrees awarded nationwide, its lowest share on a record that dates to 1987, according to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, a professional society.

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The case for a humanities degree gets little support from jobs data. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York last week released a report looking at employment for college graduates ages 22 to 27.

Majors with the lowest unemployment rates for recent graduates

• Industrial engineering : 0.2%
• Construction services : 0.4%
• Medical technicians : 0.4%
• General social sciences : 0.6%
• Nursing : 1.3%

Majors with the highest unemployment rates for recent graduates

• Art history : 8.0%
• Liberal arts : 7.9%
• Fine arts : 7.9%
• Aerospace engineering : 7.8%
• History : 7.5%

Adding to the angst: Art history, liberal arts, fine arts and history all have underemployment rates of at least 50%, meaning the graduates are working in jobs that don't require a college degree, the New York Fed reported.

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Not the whole story

Observers, however, continue to advocate for those majors. The National Association of Colleges and Employers, a research group, measures what it calls positive career outcomes for students within six months of graduation: full-time job, graduate school, entrepreneurship, military, for example.

The group found graduates from the class of 2022 had considerable success across disciplines. An engineering student, for example, had an outcome rate of 89.8%, while a history student had an outcome rate of 82%, the study found.

Engineering graduates had an easier road to landing a full-time job; their average salary was 63% higher than history students, the report said.

But the association also found that employers prized skills that humanities majors ideally should have developed. For example: Nearly all employers who were surveyed responded that communication skills were important. But only 55% of employers said recent graduates showed a high level of proficiency in that category.

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"History majors are learning critical thinking skills, or they are mastering communication skills, which are all in high demand from employers across industries," said Mary Gatta, director of research and public policy for the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

Professors say they are trying to connect their majors to real world applications. It can be a tough sell. While nursing majors become nurses and engineering majors become engineers, the pathway from, say, an English degree to the work force can take more explaining.

Corey Dzenko, an art history professor at Monmouth University, said she gives her students a weekly assignment taking a historic work of art and describing how it connects to their lives today.

"So many people often don't understand how art and the study of it can enrich their lives in many ways and their understanding of even our society today," Dzenko said.

As Tyler Bane prepares to graduate, he said his degree in history should give him a unique perspective that he can bring to an employer, whether it is a museum or bank.

He wondered if schools had raced to quickly into science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM.

"If you were to direct everyone to take the exact same degree, that weakens everyone," Bane said. "I'm going to have a different perspective on something than someone who is a nursing major might. And you also can oversaturate. Look at tech right now. They are undergoing historic layoffs right now. So, (people saying), 'Just go get a STEM degree' is not the answer."

Michael L. Diamond is a business reporter who has been writing about the New Jersey economy and health care industry for more than 20 years. He can be reached at [email protected].