May 6 – 12 marks National Nursing Week, with this year’s theme being “Changing Lives. Shaping Tomorrow.” This theme acknowledges the significant impact nurses have on individuals, communities, and the future of healthcare.
In support of Canada’s nurses this year, we are honouring one of our remarkable Niagara College Nursing alumni, Gilson Junior, who graduated from the Practical Nursing program in 2019. We caught up with Gilson to delve into his passionate pursuit of a nursing career, spanning from his journey from Niagara College to his current role as an Emergency Room (ER) Registered Nurse (RN).
Current role and career path
In my current role as an ER RN at Scarborough Health Network, I play a pivotal role in providing immediate care to critically ill patients. Working in the ER, I am faced with a fast-paced environment where every second counts. I am responsible for assessing patients, administering treatments, and coordinating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure the best possible outcomes for those in need. The ER is where I thrive under pressure, utilizing my skills and expertise to stabilize patients in critical condition and provide them with the care they urgently require.
My journey into nursing began at Niagara College in 2017, where I embarked on a rigorous program that laid the foundation for my career. Upon graduating from Niagara College in 2019, I transitioned to Toronto, where I joined Scarborough Health Network as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN). During this time, I gained invaluable experience working across various departments, including medicine, telemetry, and eventually the ER. While working as an RPN, I continued my education at Centennial College and later at Toronto Metropolitan University. It was at Toronto Metropolitan University where I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2023 and officially became an RN.
This educational journey equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in my role as an ER RN, allowing me to confidently provide high-quality care to those in need.
Influences and inspiration
My decision to pursue a career in nursing was influenced by a combination of factors, including my inherent compassion for human life and the desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Additionally, the supportive environment and guidance from mentors throughout my educational journey played a significant role in shaping my path. As I progressed in my career, I made nursing my own by continually striving to deliver compassionate and holistic care to my patients. I have also embraced opportunities for professional growth and development, allowing me to further hone my skills and expertise in the field.
My time at Niagara College laid a solid foundation for my nursing career, providing me with intensive hands-on experience, excellent professors, and state-of-the-art facilities. The emphasis on practical skills in the nursing program, particularly through mandatory lab training, allowed me to build strong technical proficiency and forge meaningful connections with my peers. Niagara College’s commitment to student education and its focus on both practical and theoretical aspects of nursing were instrumental in shaping the beginning of my career.
Standout NC experience
During my time at Niagara College, the standout experiences were the mandatory training hours in patient labs. These experiences not only honed my technical nursing skills but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among my classmates. Additionally, the support and guidance of my professors were invaluable, helping me navigate the challenges of the program and inspiring me to excel in my studies.
Words of wisdom
To prospective students considering a career in nursing, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to pursue it. Nursing is a diverse and rewarding profession with ample opportunities for growth and impact across various healthcare settings. My advice would be to approach your education with dedication, embrace experiential learning opportunities, and never stop advocating for your patients and yourself. Niagara College’s nursing program prepared me to face industry challenges by instilling in me a strong foundation of both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, empowering me to confidently embark on my nursing journey.
