Susan Karlman
- Onalaska, Wis.
- BSN (bachelor of science in nursing)
- What's next: University of Iowa adult/gerontological nurse practitioner program
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UW-Eau Claire photo by Rick Mickelson |
Staying focused apparently is no problem for Susan Karlman.
Since volunteering in a nursing home as a high school student, she's known she wants a career in the area of gerontology. After an undergraduate education filled with exploration and research about issues facing the aging population, she's about to take the next step toward preparing herself for work in a long-term care setting or assisted living facility: entering the adult/gerontological nurse practitioner program at the University of Iowa next fall.
More on Susan Karlman
Future plans: I will attend the University of Iowa and pursue a graduate degree in the adult/gerontological nurse practitioner program. The program takes five semesters, or 2½ years, but I may end up getting my doctorate of nursing practice the following year, so I may have 3½ to 4 more years of school.
I would like to work with the gerontologic clientele and believe the possibilities will be endless as the aging population of the baby boomers will keep me busy in the upcoming years. I would like to work in a more long-term care setting or assisted living facility rather than the acute, hospital setting.
What she liked most about her time at UW-Eau Claire: I have had so many wonderful memories throughout college, but one of my favorites is being able, as a Campus Ambassador, to discuss with possible future students why UW-Eau Claire has such a great nursing program students can get excited about. I have come to appreciate throughout my three years in the nursing program the importance of excellent professors and the nursing program setup. I feel I am a well prepared BSN student.
UW-Eau Claire career highlights: I have great memories of competing on the UW-Eau Claire women's golf team for my first two years, where I made great friends who became my roommates through my college career. Living in the dorms also provided great networking opportunities by allowing me to meet a variety of people in close proximity and to benefit from the collaboration of great ideas. Independence has also been a wonderful gift I've received through my college experience. I've been able to spread my wings, as I am going to a school approximately 1½ hours away from home. Opportunities to attend great activities such as the Viennese Ball and other various concerts and productions for free or discounted student prices has been wonderful as well.
Proudest college accomplishments: I am very proud of the Nursing Honors Program project I just finished after several years in the process. I chose to focus on gerontologic nursing, as this was and still is an interest of mine, hence my plans to attend graduate school for this specific area of study. Collaboration with various nursing professors to further explore an interest was very beneficial. I am also proud that I have been inducted into the only international nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau, and was awarded a leadership award. I have worked hard to accomplish academic achievement and take pride in the recognition through this great honor.
Advice for incoming students: My advice for students, especially pre-nursing majors, is to know that although it is difficult to get accepted into the program, it can be done, just put your mind to the task! Plan ahead to take classes necessary so additional opportunities can be had such as independent studies on areas you are really interested in. Also become involved in various opportunities and do not let them pass by. I am very grateful I was able to participate in two research projects this spring and know many other students have also experienced wonderful collaboration with professors and students in various areas and activities.
Learn about other featured May 2006 graduates
