Morgyn Fales
UIW Student
What made you go into nursing?
I was always interested in science and the human body. I always knew I wanted to go into medicine. At first, I thought I would be a physician - I wanted to be a Trauma Surgeon. I was inspired by Grey's Anatomy. I started working in a hospital while I was in high school. That is when I learned surgeons do not have a lot of time with patients. I knew I wanted to be a caregiver and would get more satisfaction by being a nurse.
Do you have any advice for undergrad students interested in nursing?
My word of advice would be to dip you toes into the water as soon as possible. Talk to others that are in that field. I would encourage students to enroll in an internship, find a job that is available in their realm to see how much nurses really do and get a better understanding of what is to come because it does take a lot of work and determination.
What challenges have you faced in your career?
My biggest challenge as a Psychiatric Nurse has been navigating how emotionally trying being in this field is. Patients that I take care of and help with stay at my facility between 2 months to 2 years. They are 12 t0 17 years of age, so some of the patients I have seen grow up and felt like I helped raise them. It is definitely difficult seeing the patients you care for go through the struggles of mental health.
What do you hope to contribute with your work?
I am very passionate about decreasing the stigma around mental health and increasing support for patients that have mental health disorders. The main problem is there are not enough resources and staff to help the patients. As a nurse, I am an advocate and I want patients to have the best care possible.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the students?
Do not be scared to take risks and make big decisions. If you are passionate about a subject or career, go for it. Personally, people were discouraging me because what I wanted to do would be dangerous. While I might get hurt, I would not have it any other way. I would say follow your heart and do what makes you happy.
