Dori Nicol’s journey nursing journey has taken many twists and turns. At 20 years old Nicol had no idea what she wanted to do with her life, and her first college attempt failed. But a chance encounter brought her to where she is today.
“I became a private sitter for two senior citizens in my hometown,” said Nicol. “One of those families enrolled me in CNA school at the request of their loved one. I never had health care on my radar in fact it was the last thing I thought I would ever want to do, but my passion for taking care of others was ignited by those experiences.”
Following CNA school Nicol decided to apply to LPN school where she was introduced to the role of a CRNA. She was drawn to the autonomy, critical thinking, and advanced hands-on skills that were required to care for patients during tenuous circumstances.
“I decided in that moment that I would do anything to become a CRNA,” she said.
Nicol went on to complete her associate degree, and then applied for the RN to BSN program at UT. She completed her BSN while gaining experience in the Trauma- Surgical ICU and then the ICU float pull at UT Medical Center.
Following her time as an RN to BSN student, Nicol was accepted into the DNP Nurse Anesthesia concentration. The program did not come without struggles for Nicol. As most of her classmates were preparing for marriage and children, she found herself in mid-life.
“During grad school I found that my experience was different,” she said. “I found myself going through a divorce, health procedures, and being the primary caretaker for my aging parents.”
None of these obstacles hindered Nicol from chasing her dreams. Nicol will graduate in May as a CRNA. While her formal education has been completed, Nicol plans to further her career by becoming a nurse educator.
“I feel pride in being a Vol Nurse,” said Nicol. “It embodies excellence. Through every academic experience I was pushed to always think more, explore more, know more, and to be able to find my voice.”
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CONTACT:
Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])