For my senior project, I observed and practiced what it is like to care for all different types of women's health. It ranged from females needing birth control assistance all the way through the process of having a baby with the help of Registered Nurses and a Pediatric Specialist. During this process, I gained knowledge about how different medical practices work. I also got the opportunity to experience patient interaction. This project gave me an inside view of responsibilities and tasks performed by doctors and nurses on a daily basis. Some of these tasks included building relationships with patients and coworkers, performing procedures, and making an impact on others' lives. I also gained a new perspective on what it is like to work primarily with females and their health.
WHY I CHOSE THIS AREA OF STUDY
Growing up with a brother that was born with Down syndrome has had a huge impact on my life. I have always been interested in taking care of others because of him. At a very young age I started babysitting which sparked my love for babies and children. Ever since I was a little girl I have been interested in working with young children in some way. This project gave me an idea of what a slightly different department looks like. I have now found a passion in women's health as well as my continuing passion for children's health.
MY BACKGROUND EXPERIENCE IN THIS AREA
When I was in ninth and tenth grade I worked as a daycare assistant taking care of children ranging from three months to about ten years old. After this opportunity, I started working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Field Crest Care Center in, Hayfield Minnesota. I have worked there for almost two years now. Over the years I have really built an understanding of what it means to be a caregiver. I have learned many skills that will benefit myself and others in the future. The assortment of ages that I have a background of caring for will support me throughout this new journey in my life.
HOW THIS PROJECT WAS A STRETCH FOR ME
This project was a stretch for me because I had not worked in a clinic or hospital setting before. There were some new skills that came with this project that I needed to learn and adapt to. The Mayo Clinic is a larger facility than I am used to with a larger number of patients and workers. During this educational opportunity I was able to experience an inside view of what is is like to work in one of the departments that I have dreamed of working in.