Lauren Naylor from Grapevine, Texas is a highly ambitious student, studying to complete her nursing degree at Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth, Texas. She is also an honors student, having graduated Grapevine High School with an impressive 4.5 GPA.
Lauren first became inspired to pursue a career in healthcare after reflecting on her time as a child, when she was critically ill. She credits the care she received and the positive impact her nurses had on her for her motivations and drive to pursue a career in health care. Lauren firmly believes that her success in the nursing program is rooted in her own experience as a patient, and she hopes that she can have a similar impact on the lives of others.
As a committed student, Lauren Naylor occasionally works as a Nanny, which she enjoys. She successfully maintains a work-life balance and is able to navigate the academic landscape while still prioritizing time with her family.
She is actively involved at Texas Christian University, attending UIFI sorority/fraternity leadership summer camp, and acts as a Leadership Day Rush Chair with the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority. She also actively participates as a member of the Student Nurses Association and is a TCU faculty scholar.
As a student studying nursing, Lauren Naylor looks most forward to learning about the human body, as well as the clinical aspects of her program which allow her to work one-on-one with patients in a supervised environment. She advises other students who are studying nursing to remain dedicated, as the program can be highly challenging. Lauren’s experience as an honors student in high school has ultimately prepared her for her academic hardships and her future objective is to be both a competent and kind nurse.
Lauren Naylor is also actively involved in her community and has received awards for her service, including the City of Grapevine Volunteer of the Year award.
How did you get started in nursing? What inspired you to work in healthcare?
As a child I was seriously ill, and I have always remembered the positive impact and how dedicated the nurses were and how much I appreciated them. This experience inspired me to become a nurse to be able to do the same for others.
While you are in school, are you working elsewhere?
I am in my second year studying to become a nurse at TCU (Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas). While most of my time is occupied at school I do work as a nanny from time to time to generate part time income.
When you were starting out in nursing, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
The nursing program is very challenge and very competitive. I have often doubted myself during some of the difficult classes questioning whether it was even worth it to keep going. In the end I reassured myself that if others can do it so can I.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
These last few months I have had to make tough decisions about how to balance studying with other areas of life. Ensuring that enough time is spent on studying, as my classes are becoming more challenging and timing consuming while at the same time making time for part time work, family and rest.
What do you think it is that makes you successful as a student?
My drive in wanting to be a great nurse, competent and kind. Being willing to put in the time and effort continues to be my success. To dedicate myself as a future nurse.
What has been your most satisfying moment in school?
The most satisfying moments come at the end of each semester knowing that I am that much closer to graduating and eventually working in healthcare.
What does the future hold for you? What are you most excited about?
I am most excited about starting the clinical aspects of the nursing studies. Until now it’s been mostly basic labs and non-hands on work. Being able to go to the hospital and get a feel for onsite situations will be very eye opening for me.
What books or articles have inspired you?
I enjoyed watching podcasts and YouTube channel especially seeing the path that others have taken in accomplishing their nursing qualification and experience.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped with your education?
I recently purchased medical supplies for school which have been very helpful in my learning. This included tools and textbooks.
What is your favorite part about studying nursing?
My favorite part about studying to become a nurse is that I enjoy learning about the human body, the anatomy and how it all works. How this knowledge will apply to real life and assisting and helping patients.
What advice would you give to other nursing students?
My advice to other nursing students is work hard and keep going because it can get very challenging, but others have gotten through it and so can you. If you want it, you can achieve it.