Athena Xenakis, Fuld Fellow (RN to BS Program)

• Program: RN to BS Nursing
• Hometown: Hopewell Junction, New York
  
• Favorite Self-Care Activity: Running outside on local trails and reading fiction
• Previous Education: Associate’s of Liberal Arts, Dutchess Community College, Associate’s of Nursing, Dutchess Community College

I selected UB School of Nursing based on its outstanding reputation and the availability of diverse programs. Following the completion of my Associate’s in Nursing, I sought an online, asynchronous program while simultaneously pursuing my professional goal of gaining experience in the ICU. UB School of Nursing provided the flexibility needed to follow my academic and professional goals. 

I have always been passionate about critical care. The intricacies of patient issues and the application of critical thinking are aspects I appreciate. Furthermore, the heightened acuity of patients in this setting, along with the connections forged among patients, family members, and nurses, have drawn me to this specialization. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact when individuals are at their most vulnerable inspires me to not only excel as a nurse but also to display empathy as a human being. 

Prior to embarking on my nursing journey, I worked as a COVID-19 contact tracer, engaging with individuals diagnosed with the virus. In the midst of the pandemic, marked by widespread uncertainty and fear, I played a role in alleviating the stress for many affected individuals. Despite merely performing my job duties, I received gratitude from numerous people at the conclusion of our phone conversations. Witnessing this positive impact that empathy could have on vulnerable individuals during such a critical time fueled my determination to pursue a career in the healthcare field.

Additionally, during my preceptorship in the ICU as part of my ASN program at Dutchess Community College, I was captivated by the vast medical challenges and treatments. This experience ignited a strong desire within me to pursue further learning in the field. The collaborative nature of team efforts in the ICU was particularly appealing, drawing me toward working in an environment that values teamwork. Furthermore, I have consistently found that I thrive under pressure, making me confident that I would benefit and achieve satisfaction from managing intense or emergent situations in the critical care setting. 

Currently gaining experience in critical care, I plan to utilize this experience for ongoing educational pursuits and ultimately, to mentor upcoming nurses. Despite being a newer member of the nursing profession, I have benefitted from exceptional preceptors who have guided my entry into this field. I am passionate about inspiring the next generation of nurses and aspire to contribute significantly to their development.

In addition, I advocate for the importance of continuous education and research within the medical field. The rapidly evolving nature of healthcare has always captivated me. As I progress in my journey, I plan to engage in research, conducting studies aimed at enhancing patient and family centered care. 

As I accumulate experience in critical care, my aspiration is to further my education. In the short term, I aim to complete my BSN and acquire the CCRN certification within the next year. My long-term goal is to become a CRNA. Returning to college has ignited a passion within me for continuous learning. While acknowledging the challenges associated with acceptance and enrollment in a CRNA program, I am ready to confront them. The field of anesthesia and the operative process has always intrigued me. I am drawn to the role of CRNAs due to the delivery of patient-centered care, ensuring both comfort and safety during surgical procedures. 

Thanks to the Helene Fuld Scholarship, the financial strain of tuition fees has decreased at a time when it’s needed the most. Throughout the last year, I experienced a period of unemployment, and it was only recently that I commenced working along while handling the demands of a rigorous class schedule. Therefore, this scholarship reduces the financial stress and allows me to focus solely on my academic and professional goals. I am truly grateful for being awarded this scholarship and am committed to making the most of this opportunity! 

My educational and professional pursuits have already influenced the way I approach nursing practice. Applying the evidence-based practices I have acquired, I can already see the positive impact on the overall quality of my healthcare delivery. Additionally, recognizing the vital role of nurses in advocating for policy changes, I aim to utilize my ongoing education and professional growth to advocate for improvements such as enhanced patient care, better workplace conditions, and addressing broader challenges in my local city. Furthermore, as I progress in both my education and my career, I intend to use my pursuits to question established practices and policies. Through my learning experiences, I have adopted a forward-looking perspective, encouraging me to challenge norms and identify areas for improvement.