Ph.D. in Nursing Science with a minor in Health Policy and Management
Why did you choose graduate school at IUPUI?
While working at IU Health as a Registered Nurse, I earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Indiana University School of Nursing IUPUI in 2013. I was very fortunate to work with, and learn from, some of the best clinical nurse specialists in the nation. When I decided to return to school to work on my PhD, IUPUI was my top choice. I was looking for a school where I could collaborate with experts in health services research and obtain valuable experience in research and policy.
I am interested in the adoption and implementation of evidence-based interventions to improve patient outcomes. In other words, I want healthcare providers and policy-makers to have good data and information so they can make decisions that will improve the quality of care for patients. My mentors within the IU School of Nursing IUPUI and Fairbanks School of Public Health are leaders in health services research and health policy, and the opportunity to work alongside them will prepare me to conduct research to transform the way we provide healthcare.
In addition to knowledge gained in the classroom setting, there are several opportunities at IUPUI to expand my knowledge and skills outside of the classroom. As a research assistant with Dr. Robin Newhouse, I have contributed to several aspects of a multi-site study including grant writing, development of an intervention, data collection, data analysis, and dissemination of our results. As a legislative fellow under the guidance of Representative Ed Clere and Dr. Sharron Crowder, I have first-hand experience regarding the state legislative process and the link between research and policy.
What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?
There are two academic accomplishments that have been especially meaningful for me. First, I was selected for the Robert Wood Johnson Future of Nursing Scholars program. This program aims to develop PhD-prepared nurses for leadership in practice, education, and healthcare transformation. Second, I was selected to be part of the Elite 50, a recognition of graduate and professional students who are involved in campus leadership, community engagement, and scholarly work. I am honored to work alongside nurse scholars who are transforming healthcare nationally and graduate students who are contributing to the university and community.
What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?
Indianapolis is a great place to work and live. I enjoy living in a city with several events and places to visit, and it is also easy to get away from the city to go hiking. My favorite places in Indy are Newfields and Eagle Creek Park.
Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.
- Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Future of Nursing Scholars
- Research assistant for two active studies:
- Phased Multisite Cluster Randomized Trial Testing Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) for People that Use Tobacco, Alcohol, and Non-Prescription Drugs
- Workforce and Capacity Assessment for People Referred to Treatment Post Hospital Discharge
- Indiana University Institutional Review Board-03, Member
- IU School of Nursing PhD Advisory Council, Member
- IUPUI AcademyHealth Student Chapter, Recruitment and Membership Chair
- Legislative Fellow with Representative Ed Clere and Dr. Sharron Crowder
- Oncology Nursing Society Putting Evidence into Practice team, Member
- Selected by IU School of of Nursing to participate in the 2018 American Association of Colleges of Nursing Student Policy Summit