Q&A: Nursing major tells all about the program

By Garrett Hobbs

Reporter 

Mady Dunbar, nursing major tells all about the program. 

Why did you want to pursue the nursing program? 

I’ve always wanted to help and contribute for people in some way. Having my mom as an inspiration has made me want to become a nurse. 

How do you arrange your schedule for a busy curriculum? 

I literally don’t have time for a job. I try to evenly manage my time with all my classes. 

How do you feel about relationships between your peers?  

Covid has made creating friendships challenging. The mask, socially distancing and online classes have caused a barrier. 

Do you struggle with blood or having to venipuncture? 

No, I have watched hospital shows growing up, and it was always intriguing to me. My mom works in the emergency room, so growing up I have heard many crazy stories. 

How difficult is the nursing program? 

Extremely. I have no life outside of school; my days revolve around homework. After I finish homework, I somehow manage time with my friends. 

What type of nurse do you want to be? 

I would like to be a flight nurse. It is an adrenaline rush every day, and it is something that has always been passionate to me. 

What do you like to do outside of school? 

When I’m not doing homework, I like to go to my lake house with my friends. We usually go out on the boat or ride jet skis. Now that summer is ending, I spend my time usually at home. 

What do you think about your instructors/professors? 

They are all great, they’ve all created a comfortable learning environment. They continually push me to be a better student. 

What would you do if you watched a medical professional do something unethical? 

I would hate to see one of my coworkers perform unethical medical procedures. I would be required by oath to report them.  

Where do you plan to start your career? 

I would like to stay in Missouri. I think working as a flight nurse at Freeman would be the ideal goal. 

What do you find unsettling about nursing? 

The fact that I will never get used to seeing people’s loved ones, pass away continually throughout my career. People have told me it gets better, but I do not know. 

When have you had experiences of using your degree outside of school/work? 

I was a lifeguard for two years in high school, and I have had to perform CPR on a toddler. I have had multiple drown scares.  

How do you feel about having to volunteer hours? 

It is a wonderful experience; it is an opportunity to experience hands-on learning in my field. It can be tiring sometimes.  

How do you maintain stress upon your mental and physical health? 

As soon as I can get a lead on my homework, I immediately start. I sometimes procrastinate, but I’ve learned to do better. 

If nursing weren’t your major, what would it be instead? 

I honestly do not think I would go to school if there was not the nursing program. It is something I have known since I was a kid. 

What qualities do you possess that benefit you as a nurse?  

I’m a people person. I can sit and make conversation with a random stranger. It has got me through everything.  

What is your opinion on mandatory covid/influenza vaccines for nurses?  

I think it is anyone’s choice outside of work, but if work requires it, then I abide. I also don’t think they would make something that is unsafe mandatory.  

What are you core values? 

My biggest moral is being nice and treating others the way I would want to be treated. I’ve always stood by that since elementary school. 

What do you think about scrubs? 

My favorite color is blue. I have my own graphic scrubs, but when I must wear my blue ones, I always rock them. 

Who’s the most difficult person you have interacted with? 

The most difficult person is my sister. I have a good relationship with everyone; sometimes I do butt heads with my sister.