Danielle Wessel, DNP, RN, CCRP
Registered Nurse – Labor and Delivery, UC Health

What do you love most about nursing?
The thing I love most about nursing is the fact that it is an art and a science. We get to use our people skills and talk to patients during the most vulnerable time in their life being hospitalized; we get to be there on their worst day or their best day. And we also get to use our critical thinking skills and all the evidence based practice and science that we learned in school. It’s the perfect blend of both.

What lessons did you learn at UC that have stuck with you?
UC taught me that "resilience is built and not born." When things feel overwhelming at work, UC has taught me resilience builders so that I can adapt when things feel out of control. UC taught me how to have a "bounce back rate" or the time it takes for me to adapt or "bounce back" from adversity. My nursing role on the unit has taught me how to increase that "bounce back rate." This is a lesson transferable to my real world as well.

What advice would you give to current UC Nursing students?
My advice to Nursing students: If you let your passion become your purpose then it's impossible not to make something happen. Be obsessed with your potential and what you bring to this world because it can take you so incredibly far.  Passion is a great force that unleashes creativity. So, if you're passionate about something then you're more willing to take risks; risks are uncomfortable, but that's where the good stuff happens.

Steven Rheaume, MBA, BSN, RN, CPN, NE-BC
Clinical Director, Ambulatory Services, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

What do you love most about nursing?
I love the ability to serve others in such a respected profession. Nursing also allows for so much diversity within the profession that I have been able to switch roles and still feel incredible purpose in various capacities. The ability to provide care, comfort, and a safe space to be heard for others is a gift. It is a privilege to be a nurse in my hometown, and I take each day as an opportunity to make a lasting impact within our community.

What lessons did you learn at UC that have stuck with you over the years?
First, never be afraid to challenge yourself or the status quo. UC not only creates leaders, but curates an environment for forever learners to flourish. Second, never forget the human aspect of healthcare. Connecting with your patient and the team of healthcare professionals was always a priority, and the level of compassion I bring to my work was fueled through my professors and clinical instructors throughout my schooling. Third, UC will always be home. There has always been a sense of community and pride through UC Nursing and that has only grown since my graduation in 2016. I, like many before and since have always been welcomed back with open arms at any function, and UC truly cares about its students and alumni. People matter.

What advice would you give to current UC Nursing students?
A few thoughts come to mind. Don't rush your career. The first few years are so imperative for building a foundation of knowledge and skill. While your peers may go at a different pace, whether that be furthering education or promotions, go at a pace that maximizes your learning and growth. The next piece of advice is to not be afraid of being turned down for a position or committee. The growth that comes in failure is immense. Last and most important: never forget why you are a nurse. Caring for others in a state of vulnerability is a special gift that should not be taken for granted. Nursing will forever be the backbone of the healthcare system, and I hope the next generation of nurses take deep pride in their work of serving this region and beyond.