Reply To: The Discouragement Received From Nurse Colleagues When Pursuing DNP

[Amber]

Avery,
Your post gave me some solace in knowing I am not the only one experiencing this! I work full-time in PACU and am currently enrolled in a BSN-DNP program, and am a mom. I am constantly asked about my program progression and immediately met with, “I am content where I am; I have nothing to prove.” “I have no desire to go back to school.” “I’m fine where I’m at, but good for you.” Initially, I would be offended or disheartened because most people saying this to me were friends. What’s crazy is it started to make me feel insecure and doubt myself and question my decision or ability. I am also getting mom-shamed because my son is 3yrs old. I am told that I am robbing him of time with me.
I had to step back and realize they were projecting their insecurities and their comments had nothing to do with me.
I hope you were able to build a village of supportive, positive people that helped you make it through school!

“Some people are in such utter darkness that they will burn you just to see a light. Try not to take it personally.”
― Kamand Kojouri