why do i want to become a nurse practitioner essay

How to Write an Excellent NP School Personal Statement

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“Try not to rush this statement. We recommend taking some time to reflect on your nursing career accomplishments, as well as situations that perhaps were learning situations that did not end favorably. Use these to reflect on your motivation and priorities and how they apply to the topic that the school has provided.”

Dr. Doreen Rogers, DNS, RN, CCRN, CNE, Assistant Professor of Nursing & Graduate Nursing Program Director at Utica University

Anyone who’s ever applied to a nurse practitioner program knows two things: careers in nursing are in high demand and graduate school admissions are competitive. Nurse practitioner careers are one of the fastest-growing occupations in the United States; in fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2023) predicts that 118,600 new NP jobs will be added to the economy between 2022 and 2032—a 45 percent increase.

So why are nurse practitioner admissions so competitive? A shortage of qualified nursing teaching faculty and an increasing number of retiring nurses are some possible reasons, according to CNN . 

Despite these admissions barriers, a nationwide shortage of doctors is poised to restrict patients’ access to care. To address this problem, states are beginning to expand the scope of practice laws for nurse practitioners. The U.S. News & World Report shows that 22 states, the District of Columbia, and the Veterans Health Administration removed practice authority limitations for NPs, which resulted in expanded healthcare and decreased costs. 

One thing is sure: applicants for nursing practitioner programs must put together flawless applications to rank high with an admissions committee. In addition, an aspiring nurse practitioner who wants to stand out and make a solid first impression needs to write an excellent nurse practitioner (NP) school personal statement.  

To help out hard-working nurses who spend more time seeing patients than practicing academic writing skills, here are some tips for writing an excellent nurse practitioner (NP) school personal statement.

Follow the Five-Paragraph Essay Format

Drexel University has a video featuring several tips for writing a personal essay for admissions committees. The video recommends applicants organize their statements in a five-paragraph essay format and write no more than 500 words. 

• First paragraph: Make an immediate impact in your introduction
• Second paragraph: Explain what attracted you to the program and field
• Third paragraph: Compare your short- and long-term goals with the program goals
• Fourth paragraph: Share your skills, experiences, and characteristics
• Fifth paragraph: Conclude by summarizing your five-paragraph essay

Drexel University also offers a downloadable infographic to illustrate what admissions committees are looking for in an applicant’s essay.

Write an Impactful Introduction

Pretty Nurse Ashley , a registered nurse who documented her experience getting into Vanderbilt University’s top-ranked nurse practitioner program, emphasizes the importance of an impactful introduction in a personal statement in her YouTube video:

That first sentence needs to be something spectacular, something that’s going to pull them in, so it needs to be very creative and something that’s going to get their attention. With your personal statement, you want to stand out from the other applicants. You want to create a story, create a vivid picture of who you are.

At a time when nursing schools are sending thousands of rejection letters to qualified applicants, Pretty Nurse Ashley’s advice to make a strong introduction is solid advice to help an applicant open their statement with what makes them unique.

Do Your Homework: Advice From an NP Career Coach

Renee Dahring is a nurse practitioner career coach , past president of the Minnesota chapter of the APRN Coalition, and a nursing university instructor with extensive experience in recruitment and admissions for nurse practitioner programs. When applying to NP schools, Ms. Dahring recommends that nurse practitioner applicants do their homework in three areas.

Show Your Commitment to Finish

Dahring said, “Every university wants its students to finish, especially in a nurse practitioner program. If you drop out, your spot in the NP cohort is empty. Mostly we like to know: ‘Have people thought this decision through?’” 

In other words, when an NP program admission committee decides to admit a student, they are investing in that person to finish the program. Therefore, if it seems like a risky investment, they will not want to admit that individual.

Connect Your Career Goals to the NP Program’s Mission

“Understand what the program’s goals and missions are and align your personal statement with them. . .Also, consider the mission of the educational institution; most have a dedication to the underserved, but that will vary from place to place,” Dahring advised.

Addressing a program’s or an institution’s mission statement directly in a personal essay can catch the attention of an admission committee. They want to ensure that a person is a strong fit for their specific program. It’s also a benefit for applicants to be familiar with a school’s objectives and guiding philosophy, as it can help ensure that a program is the right fit for them.

Demonstrate Your Understanding of NP Scope of Practice Laws 

Dahring also stated, “The other important thing is to have a really good understanding of the NP Scope of Practice Laws. . .You should have a clear idea of what you are allowed and not allowed to do in the states where you apply for NP school and intend to work as a nurse practitioner.” 

NPs can practice more independently in some states than others—and a solid understanding of these regional nuances can inform one’s essay.

Take Time to Communicate Clearly

Above all, take the time to write and edit well. Admissions committees read through hundreds of personal statements, so communicating concisely and clearly can increase an applicant’s chances of admission to an NP program.

Dr. Doreen Rogers is an assistant professor of nursing and the graduate nursing program director at Utica University in New York. She advises applicants to use their best writing skills:

Remember, your personal statement is an opportunity for you to convey what motivates you and discuss your priorities as a healthcare professional while extending them to your future career as a nurse practitioner. Some aspects that are exceptionally important are the use of appropriate grammar, spelling, word selection, and sentence structure (including an introductory paragraph, transition sentences in between paragraphs, and a conclusion that ties everything together).

Dr. Rogers also recommended taking the time to communicate clearly: “Try not to rush this statement. Instead, we recommend taking some time to reflect on your nursing career accomplishments, as well as situations that perhaps were learning situations that did not end favorably. Use these to reflect on your motivation and priorities and how they apply to the topic that the school has provided.”

Rachel Drummond, MEd

On NPschools.com, Rachel Drummond has leveraged her extensive background in education and mindfulness to provide valuable insights to nursing professionals since 2020. She explores how mindfulness and movement can be incorporated into the demanding routines of nurses, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical well-being for increased resilience and effectiveness in the challenging field of nursing.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog , inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.

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How to Write the Perfect NP School Personal Statement

Apr 7, 2020 | Job Search Tips

Most nurse practitioner (NP) schools require their prospective students to compose a personal statement. Often, these elusive essays cause applicants to panic, but with just cause: personal statements are one of the most important components of NP school applications.

Having applied to a BSN, MSN, and DNP program in my past, I have written more personal statements than I can count. In this article, I offer general advice for preparing, writing, and editing your essay.

To help temper your anxiety, this post elaborates on the importance of:

• Following directions
• Being honest
• Writing passionately and professionally
• Making your case
• Starting with an outline
• Offering a story
• Speaking the nursing language
• Addressing your “red flags”
• Giving yourself plenty of time
• Using correct syntax and grammar
• Reading it out loud

Follow Directions

First and foremost, follow directions. Each school has different guidelines for their personal statements, and you do not want your application thrown out just because you fell under their required word count. Some schools provide explicit information on the length, format, and content of the personal statement while others leave the task more open-ended.

For example,  Vanderbilt University  provides an open-ended prompt for the admissions essay: “The Statement of Purpose should reflect your understanding of the role of the advanced practice nurse and your interest in either a particular patient population, in healthcare leadership or in nursing informatics. Before writing your statement of purpose, please carefully review information about the specialty on our website so that you clearly indicate to the faculty that your career goals are a fit with the specialty.”

Drexel University  also offers specific guidelines for their personal statement requirement: “Personal statement (under 1,000 words) that will give the admissions committee a better understanding of: (1) Why you are choosing this particular program of study; (2) Your plans upon completion of the graduate degree; and, (3) How your current work experience will enhance your experience in this MSN program.”

On the other hand, NP schools like  Duke University  and  University of California San Francisco  merely ask for a “personal statement” or “goal statement” with no further direction. Be aware that not every school calls your essay a personal statement. Allen College, for example, calls it a “biographical sketch,” and Johns Hopkins University calls it a “written expression of goals.”

Every application will be slightly different, so it is important to stay organized. Table 1 is an example of how I stayed organized during my NP school applications.

Make sure your answers line up with your resume or curriculum vitae. Do not exaggerate your skills or accomplishments. Instead, be proud of what you have achieved and speak enthusiastically about your desire to become an NP.

Never let someone else write your essay for you, and never plagiarize content from books, blogs, or journal articles. The admissions committee may scan your personal statement for plagiarism using an online program. Be sure to check your essay before you submit it using a website like  PlagTracker ,  Turn It In , or  Grammarly .

Write Passionately and Professionally

One of my favorite quotes is from Ralph Waldo Emerson: “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” If being an NP is your goal, pursue it with courage, determination, and passion. Become enthusiastic about all things nurse practitioning.

Writing professionally does not mean writing a bland, scientific paper. Be concise, be consistent, use clear examples, and make it sound like you. Make sure your personal statement succinctly and lucidly portrays your passion for becoming an NP. Do not use this essay as a means to criticize past professors or other NP programs.

Make Your Case

Think of your personal statement as your chance to convince the admissions committee to accept you. Why should they admit you? What makes you unique? Why will you succeed in graduate school? Why will you be an excellent nurse practitioner? Use your essay to make your case.

Make sure you tailor your answers to your chosen medical specialty. For example, if you are applying to become an emergency nurse practitioner, what characteristics do you have that will ensure your success? Are you quick on your feet, calm under pressure, and compassionate to all? Are you enthusiastic about this specialty? What have you done or what do you do that demonstrates your passion?

Start with an Outline

Sometimes the hardest part is figuring out where to begin. A mind map can help you start brainstorming. A mind map is a spidergram that offers a structured method for developing ideas.

When you are ready, use your mind map to create a topical outline. Typically, you will want to have an introduction and conclusion paragraph that sandwich a handful of body paragraphs. Your introduction and conclusion should include your thesis and summary of your subtopics. Each body paragraph should elaborate upon one subtopic. I use the following outline when beginning my articles.

Introduction Paragraph

• An attention-grabbing opening statement
• A thesis statement summarizing the theme and purpose of the paper
• Mention each subtopic covered in the body paragraphs

Body Paragraphs (one for each subtopic)

• Opening sentence that indicates subtopic to be discussed
• Multiple sentences that provide supporting details and examples
• A short explanation regarding how these details or examples relate to your thesis

Concluding Paragraph

• Begin with a restatement of your thesis
• Summarize your main topic and subtopics
• End with global statement

Offer a Story

You want the admissions team to remember you. You want to stand out. Try to incorporate a personal story that will make you memorable. The stories can usually be about anything you like: anything from a conversation with a mentor to a volunteer experience. Make the story interesting and use it to illustrate and emphasize your key points.

Choose a story that describes how you decided to become an NP or one that illustrates your personal values. You might also write about a particular challenge or experience that changed your perspective. Try to choose a story that gives the reader a clear impression of who you are and why you will be successful in NP school.

Consider beginning the story in your introduction, telling small pieces in each body paragraph, and ending the story in your conclusion paragraph. If you decide to tel a story in your personal statement, I suggest using the outline below.

• Open with a short vignette that introduces your story and the conflict or challenge
• With each new body paragraph, tell a little more of the story, relating each part of the anecdote to the subtopic
• Conclude the story with what you learned or by emphasizing the moral
• Restatement of your thesis and summarize your subtopics

Speak the Nursing Language

In your personal statement, speak the nursing language. This will give you credibility. For those new to the NP field, learn the language by reading as many books as you can.  A good place to start is Stewart and DeNisco’s  Role Development for the Nurse Practitioner . This text offers a broad overview of health policy, healthcare reform, mentoring, prescriptive authority, and the history of NPs. A newer book that I love is Carolyn Buppert’s  Nurse Practitioner’s Business Practice and Legal Guide . This book will give you more detailed information about the scope of practice laws in each state.

It never hurts to touch on these seminal publications from the  Institute of Medicine :

• The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health
• Assessing Progress on the IOM Report The Future of Nursing
• To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System
• Crossing the Quality Chasm: A New Health System for the 21st Century
• Health Professions Education: A Bridge to Quality

You might also consider citing these position papers published by the  American Association of Nurse Practitioners :

• Quality of Nurse Practitioner Practice
• Scope of Practice for Nurse Practitioners
• Use of Terms Such as Mid-Level Provider and Physician Extender
• Clinical Outcomes: The Yardstick of Educational Effectiveness
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Discussion Paper
• Nurse Practitioner Curriculum

Address Your Red Flags

If you have a red flag in your application, explain it in your personal statement. Do you have a bad grade or low Graduate Record Exam score? Maybe you lack a full year of nursing experience. Rather than shying away from the topic, offer a clear, accurate explanation. Demonstrate humility, and write about how you have compensated for this mistake, challenge, setback, or flaw.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Do not procrastinate! Start your personal statement weeks in advance. Give yourself adequate time to brainstorm, write an outline, compose each paragraph, revise, and edit. A rushed essay might land your entire application in the rejected pile.

Use Correct Syntax and Grammar

Proofread, proofread, and proofread again! A clean, well-composed essay exemplifies your ability to succeed in a graduate program. My favorite website for checking grammar is  Grammarly . They offer a free and premium service. They advertise that their software catches 250 errors that Microsoft Word does not detect. I also find their free  Grammar Handbook  helpful.

Throughout my DNP program, I started a list of general writing tips. Here are some of the most important:

• Use  American Psychological Association  (APA) formating
• Avoid generalities, cliches, and psychobabble
• Do not use the verb “to get”
• Do not use “very” as an intensifier
• Data is plural, so use a plural verb
• Use active voice whenever possible
• “Compare with” points out differences between two similar things
• Affect is a verb and effect is a noun
• Keep the subject and the verb close together
• Omit needless prepositions
• Use that if what you are saying cannot be eliminated without changing the meaning of the sentence
• Use which if you can delete the clause and the sentence will still have the same meaning
• Avoid using negative statements
• Write out numbers under 10 (e.g. three, seven, 10, 45)
• Be consistent with abbreviations and titles
• Avoid contractions

In general, avoid adverbs. Instead, use stronger verbs that imply the adverb. Here is a list of strong verbs to consider:

• Exemplifies
• Corroborates
• Approximates

There are a variety of websites that can help you with APA formatting, grammar, syntax, and checking for plagiarism. Some good resources include:

• http://www.apastyle.org/
• http://www.thesaurus.com/
• https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/
• http://www.grammarbook.com/
• https://www.plagtracker.com

Read it Out Loud

After you have finished writing your essay, read it out loud. Most people have more experience listening and speaking than writing and editing. By reading your personal statement out loud, your brain will hear the information and new way and notice flaws you did not see before.

It helps to print a copy of your paper so that you can take notes as you read. Read at a slow to moderate pace. Try to be systematic about your reading: check for grammar the first time through, syntax the second time, and tone the third time.

As you listen to your paper, pay attention to the order of your ideas. Note any gaps in your explanations. Make sure you transition clearly from one main idea to the next. Do not be afraid to reorder sentences, paragraphs, or entire sections. Also, listen for grammatical and syntax errors. You will probably notice sentences that are awkward, too convoluted, and repetitive.

Finally, hearing your paper out loud will give you a sense of its tone. Does your paper sound too casual, too chatty, or too formal? This essay is the admission committee’s first impress of you. Consider reading your paper to a friend and asking them what impression they obtain from your answers.

Dr. Melissa DeCapua, DNP, PMHNP-BC

AuthorMelissa DeCapua is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Vanderbilt University. She has a background in child and adolescent psychiatry as well as psychosomatic medicine. Uniquely, she also possesses a bachelor’s degree in studio arts, which she uses to enhance patient care, promote the nursing profession, and solve complex problems. Melissa currently works as the Healthcare Strategist at a Seattle-based health information technology company where she guides product development by combining her clinical background and creative thinking. She is a strong advocate for empowering nurses, and she fiercely believes that nurses should play a pivotal role in shaping modern health care. For more about Melissa, check out her blog  www.melissadecapua.com  and follow her on  Twitter @melissadecapua .

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6 Reasons to Become a Nurse Practitioner

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• Specializations
• Influence Patient Outcomes

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Choosing to make the move from a registered nurse (RN) to a nurse practitioner (NP) can be professionally and personally beneficial . Among nurses, NPs have one of the highest job satisfaction rates, stemming from the passion for their specialty and the direct ways they impact their patients.

Combined with high earning potential and growing demand for advanced practice nurses, many find the choice to become an NP a rewarding decision.

This guide includes a breakdown of the personal, professional, and financial benefits nurses receive when becoming an NP.

Specialize in an Area of Care You Are Truly Passionate About

Once you become an NP, you must specialize in an area of care. Fortunately, there are a variety of available specializations. Nurses have the flexibility to focus on areas of care that inspire them and align with their healthcare experience.

NP specializations are often categorized by population and work environment. Population foci involve working with a group with similar health concerns or characteristics (i.e., age and gender), while the work environment consists of the practice setting.

Being able to focus on a specific area of medicine allows NPs to hone their skills and demonstrate expertise. Workers more passionate and committed to their jobs tend to have more motivation to be successful. Working with a specific population also allows NPs to build deeper connections with their patients as they focus on a specific population.

Some of the more popular specializations include the following:

• Adult-Gerontology
• Psychiatric-Mental Health
• Women’s Health

Enjoy Increased Nursing Autonomy

Due to their advanced education and training, NPs receive much more autonomy than they would typically experience as an RN. While RNs work under an expert clinician, such as a physician, NPs can work much more independently.

In some states, NPs are qualified to run their own practice and serve as primary care providers without the oversight of a doctor. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) provides information practice authority guidelines for each state. The American Medical Association also tracks the authority of an NP in each state.

While some states restrict the role of an NP, those with full practice authority may assess, diagnose, order tests, and prescribe medications. Given their autonomy, NPs have been able to fill vacancies in rural and underserved areas with physician shortages.

Enter One of the Fastest-Growing Occupations in the Country

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), NPs are the 4th fastest-growing occupation in the country. While the average growth rate is around 9% for all occupations, the growth for NPs is exponentially higher, at a rate of 52%.

One of the reasons behind the projected increase is the aging population. As the large baby-boomer generation ages, they require experienced practitioners who can help them manage any ailments or conditions. NPs can continue to take advantage of this growing number of patients.

There is also an increased need for more services, stemming from a greater emphasis on preventative and primary care. Since NPs can offer many of the same services as a physician, they can help fill those roles. As states continue to update regulations that allow NPs greater autonomy, more positions become available for states to fill.

Increase Your Earning Potential

RNs who decide to become an NP can expect, on average, to earn almost 44% more than their current pay. According to the BLS , the median annual salary for an RN is $77,600, while an NP earns $123,780.

While NPs are required to complete more schooling, which does come at a cost, becoming a nurse practitioner could be a worthwhile path. NP earning potential, coupled with the need for advanced practice nurses, can make a future as an NP financially sound.

Outside of the increased salary due to their education and training, an NP’s pay is also influenced by specialization, practice setting, and location. Nurses who pursue a specialization in psychiatry-mental health and neonatal can expect to earn a higher salary than some of the other specialties.

With regard to practice settings, the BLS lists home healthcare services, psychiatric and substance use hospitals, and outpatient care centers as some of the locations that earn NPs the highest annual wage.

Take Advantage of Flexible Education Options

There are a variety of paths nurses can take to become an NP, providing them with flexibility while earning their advanced degrees. Learners can enroll in online, part-time, bridge, and direct-entry programs depending on their personal needs.

Many online programs allow students to complete their courses from the comfort of their own homes. Some online programs require minimal time on campus, and courses can be synchronous (occurring in real-time), asynchronous (students access on their own time), or a combination.

While part-time programs often take longer to complete, they allow students to finish their courses while continuing to work. This option is often ideal for learners who want to keep their jobs for the extra experience and financial benefits.

Bridge programs are geared toward RNs or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who have an associate degree in nursing (ADN) rather than a bachelor of science in nursing. It allows them to earn both their BSN and master of science in nursing (MSN) simultaneously, saving both time and money.

Direct-entry

Direct-entry programs are for students who have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to earn an MSN to become an NP. This is an accelerated program that allows students to earn their degree in around three years.

In these programs, learners often complete their BSN coursework over the first year, allowing them to sit for the NCLEX-RN. They then complete their MSN and NP coursework over the next 1.5 to 2 years.

According to the AANP , since the role’s debut in 1965, NPs have consistently demonstrated the ability to provide quality care with exceptional outcomes. Numerous studies led the AANP to indicate that NPs are effective; there have been no statistically significant differences in the quality of care when NPs are compared to their physician counterparts.

In fact, patients under NP care have had fewer unnecessary hospital readmissions, potentially preventable hospitalizations, and avoidable emergency room visits.

NPs can influence their healthcare organization by providing a more cost-effective service. Adding an NP to a practice increases the number of patients seen by a physician, which in turn boosts revenue.

Employing an NP rather than a physician can help decrease costs within the practice, as doctors often earn more than twice the salary of advanced practice nurses.

Overall, NPs help the patient and the practice by improving outcomes, increasing revenue, and decreasing costs, making them a beneficial addition to most organizations.

Learn More About Becoming a Nurse Practitioner

If you are interested in becoming an NP , explore your options for the right fit. Review the specializations and determine where your passions lie. Taking the necessary time to decide upon a specialization is crucial, as that specialization will be the main focus of your nursing career.

After deciding on a specialization, establish the type of program that works best, whether that is in-person, online, part-time, bridge, or direct-entry. Examine schools that provide both the program and specialization while fitting into your financial and professional plan.

The variety of options can be quite daunting, but evaluating the available resources will make the process less overwhelming. Becoming an NP can be an extremely fulfilling and successful endeavor, and every NP’s path differs. Make sure that all aspects of the process of becoming an NP fits your needs and goals.

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Why I Became a Nurse Practitioner: Interviews with NPs

Guest Blog Provided by Kasee Wiesen DNP, APRN, FNP-C

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are in demand—the United States currently has 325,000 licensed NPs , with 89% certified in primary care. U.S. News and World Report ranks nurse practitioners as #1 in best healthcare jobs and #2 in the best 100 jobs. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment for NPs to grow by 52% by 2030—that is almost an additional 115,000 jobs! 

Now that you see the job is in demand and will be growing over the next eight years, you may be wondering, but why become a nurse practitioner? If you're already working as a nurse, considered one of the most trusted professions , why make a change? Is it worth the additional years of school?

Yes, becoming a nurse practitioner is worth the effort for so many reasons! 

There are multiple benefits to becoming a nurse practitioner , such as increased pay and autonomy. They also have a greater scope of practice, allowing the advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to deliver high-quality patient-centered care, including assessing, diagnosing, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and devising treatment plans for patients. APRNs strive to ensure their patients understand their diagnoses and treatment plans, and they answer any questions patients may have along the way. 

My name is Kasee Wiesen, and I am a practicing family nurse practitioner (FNP) in Nebraska. I have been working as a nurse for 11 years and as a family nurse practitioner for 2.5 years—and have loved every moment! I became a nurse practitioner to deliver a higher level of patient care, realize a greater scope of practice and have increased job satisfaction. Below, I will discuss four specific reasons to become a nurse practitioner. But, don't just take my word for it; I would like to introduce you to two additional advanced practice nurses who agree that becoming an NP is a valuable, rewarding and excellent career choice!

Cherl Mues, APRN, has been a nurse for 18 years and a practicing NP for the last 11 years of her career. She has primarily worked in the family practice setting. "My decision to pursue a further nursing degree was motivated by feelings of limited advancement opportunities in my RN role. I loved patient care… which made the NP role the obvious choice for further nursing education."

Colleen Bartholomew, APRN, has been a nurse for over 15 years, and for the last 2.5 years of her career, she has been practicing as an NP. She graduated from an FNP program and decided to pursue a career as an NP working in oncology— "I became an NP because I wanted the opportunity to care for patients at a higher level. I wanted to participate in the plan of care and follow-up in a more meaningful way."  

Workplace Autonomy

Nurse practitioners have greater workplace autonomy than when practicing as a registered nurse (RN). However, the degree of autonomy as an advanced practice nurse is influenced by the state in which you work.

Be sure to check out this NP State Practice Authority map from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) that outlines practice authority across all 50 U.S. states (information current as of March 2022): 

The state I work in as an FNP allows for full practice authority and workplace autonomy. Cherl Mues also describes her role as independent: "I have nearly complete autonomy with my practice, although there is also a very supportive structure for more complicated patients."  

Likewise, Colleen Bartholomew works in a specialty setting, stating, "Yes, I do feel I have a fair amount of autonomy. In the specialty practice I work in, the original plan of care is determined by an MD. When I see patients for interval follow-up visits, I can independently make treatment decisions, order diagnostic imaging, order labs and prescribe medications."  

Job Satisfaction

Overall, NPs are very satisfied with their jobs. According to U.S. News and World Report , nurse practitioners rate their job satisfaction as "above average" when discussing upward mobility and stress levels. Personally, I am extremely satisfied with my career, and Bartholomew and Mues also feel fulfilled in their roles. 

"I love the NP role and the practice environment that I currently function in. My nursing background is ideally situated to help with primary care and disease management and chronic care education. As a PCP provider in rural NE, I am aware daily that I am providing services to folks who would otherwise have to drive nearly 60 minutes to get access to health care." - Cherl Mues

"I love my job. Even the most difficult days are rewarding." - Colleen Bartholomew. 

Practice Holistic Patient-Centered Care

The opportunity to practice autonomously allows me to spend more time tailoring every treatment plan to meet that patient's specific needs and concerns. As an advanced practice nurse, Mues and Bartholomew both feel they practice in patient-centered care:

"I have the ability to tailor all my treatment plans to patients' social, financial and health care goals, which I have to take into consideration with each visit based on if they are insured, have transportation, support systems or financial means. " - Cherl Mues

"We strive to provide patient-centered care and address needs of the physical, ethical, emotional and spiritual aspects of each patient." - Colleen Bartholomew

Serve Your Community and Help Fill Gaps in Healthcare

The Association of American Medical Colleges estimates a shortage of between 37,800 and 124,000 physicians in primary and specialty care by 2034. They also conducted a public opinion research study in which 35% of survey respondents said they or someone they knew had trouble finding a doctor in the past one or two years—a 10% increase from 2015. 

These statistics show how APRNs, specifically FNPs, can step in to help fill the void in healthcare, ensuring patients can access health care when needed. I asked Mues and Bartholomew if they feel they are helping fill gaps in access to healthcare as they practice in their respective roles. Bartholomew answered very straightforwardly, stating, "Yes, I do." Mues said, "The rural community I practice in makes this obvious—we have limited local access to health care. The health system I am working with fills the gap for primary care access and attempts to coordinate the access to specialty care the best we can."  

Lastly, I asked both Bartholomew and Mues, if given the opportunity, would they do it all again and pursue their FNP? Not surprisingly, they both answered, Yes! 

"I try and recruit colleagues to become nurse practitioners at any opportunity!" Cherl Mues, APRN  

So, have I piqued your interest in pursuing your MSN-FNP?

If you are interested in transitioning to an NP role, Carson-Newman University's Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner online program will set you up for success. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The MSN-FNP is robust with coursework that is 100% online, includes a three-day on-campus residency and clinical placement support, and will prepare you for success on the FNP certification exam and practice as an FNP! 

For more information, please visit the website for the Carson-Newman's Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program. 

19 Top Reasons Why You Should Become a Family Nurse Practitioner

Family nurse practitioners play a significant role in healthcare. Family nurse practitioners typically provide primary and preventative care in a primary care setting—but may also work in various specialty clinics, urgent cares, and emergency departments. They provide care to all ages, including newborns to geriatrics. They assess, order, and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose their patient and develop a treatment plan. So now you may be asking, why become a family nurse practitioner? Below you will find 19 top reasons why you should become a family nurse practitioner.

WHY BECOME A FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER?

Reason #1: greater autonomy, reason #2: greater responsibility, reason #3: provide preventative and primary care, reason #4: can pursue a career in a specialty field, reason #5: higher earning potential, reason #6: fnp’s are in in-demand, reason #7: prescriptive authority, reason #8: more management or leadership opportunities, reason #9: great hours, reason #10: positively impact your patient’s life, reason #11: help patient’s set goals and achieve those goals, reason #12: job satisfaction, reason #13: can work in a variety of settings, reason #14: provide care to patients across their lifespan, reason #15: possibility of opening your own practice, reason #16: complete your msn or dnp while working as an rn, reason #17: family medicine will continue to challenge you, reason #18: job security, reason #19: great work-life balance, my final thoughts.

Essay on Why Do You Want To Be A Nurse Practitioner

Students are often asked to write an essay on Why Do You Want To Be A Nurse Practitioner in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Why Do You Want To Be A Nurse Practitioner

Helping people heal.

Being a nurse practitioner means I can help people feel better. Imagine seeing someone sick and knowing exactly how to help them. That’s what nurse practitioners do. They use their knowledge to make others’ lives better.

Learning Every Day

This job is for those who love to learn. Medicine always changes with new discoveries. As a nurse practitioner, I would keep learning about these changes to provide the best care.

Making a Difference

Nurse practitioners make a big difference in their communities. They are trusted by people. I want to be someone who can be trusted to take care of others and improve their health.

250 Words Essay on Why Do You Want To Be A Nurse Practitioner

Why do you want to be a nurse practitioner.

Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with advanced education and clinical training who provide primary and specialty healthcare services. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and perform procedures. They also provide preventive care and health education.

There are many reasons why someone might want to become a nurse practitioner. Some of the most common reasons include:

A Desire to Help Others

Nurse practitioners are driven by a desire to help others. They are passionate about caring for people and making a difference in their lives. They are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.

A Strong Educational Background

Nurse practitioners have a strong educational background in nursing and healthcare. They have completed a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in nursing. They have also completed clinical training in a variety of settings.

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Nurse practitioners are committed to lifelong learning. They stay up-to-date on the latest healthcare trends and research. They also participate in continuing education courses to maintain their skills and knowledge.

A Rewarding Career

Nurse practitioners have a rewarding career. They are able to make a difference in the lives of their patients and their families. They also have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings and to learn new skills.

If you are interested in a career in healthcare, you may want to consider becoming a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, to have a rewarding career, and to learn new skills.

500 Words Essay on Why Do You Want To Be A Nurse Practitioner

A passion for helping others.

The essence of a nurse practitioner’s role lies in providing care, compassion, and support to those in need. It is a profession driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. The opportunity to alleviate suffering, ease pain, and promote well-being is what truly sets this career path apart.

The Intellectual Challenge

Nurse practitioners are required to possess a comprehensive understanding of human physiology, pharmacology, and various medical conditions. The intellectual stimulation of diagnosing and treating illnesses, along with the ability to learn and adapt to new medical information, fuels the passion of many nurse practitioners.

Autonomy and Collaboration

As nurse practitioners, we have the autonomy to diagnose and treat patients, order and interpret tests, and prescribe medications. This level of independence allows us to provide holistic care to our patients while collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Versatility and Flexibility

The versatility of the nurse practitioner role allows us to work in a variety of settings, including clinics, hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities. This flexibility enables us to tailor our careers to our personal and professional goals, while making a difference in diverse communities.

Being a nurse practitioner is a deeply rewarding career. The ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of our patients, to witness their progress and recovery, and to receive their gratitude is an incredibly fulfilling experience. The opportunity to build long-lasting relationships with patients and their families is what truly makes this profession so special.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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Essay Sample on Why I Want to Be A Nurse

Nursing is a rewarding and challenging career that has the power to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether your motivation is to help others, attain financial freedom, or both, writing a “Why I Want To Be A Nurse” essay is an excellent opportunity to express your passion and commitment to the field.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why you might want to become a nurse and provide you with helpful tips and inspiration for writing a powerful and persuasive essay .

Why I Want to Be A Nurse (Free Essay Sample)

Nursing is a career that offers a unique combination of hands-on care and emotional support to those in need. There are many reasons why someone might choose to become a nurse, including:

The Empathy and Altruism of Nursing

I have a strong desire to help people and hope to become a nurse. I think nursing is the best way for me to make a difference in other people’s lives because it combines my natural empathy and desire to help people. Nursing gives me a chance to positively touch people’s lives, which has always attracted me to the thought of doing so.

I saw the beneficial effects that nurses may have on people’s life as a child. I have always been moved by the kindness and concern they have for their patients. The small gestures of kindness, like holding a patient’s hand or speaking encouraging words, have always touched me. I think nurses have a special power to change people’s lives and leave a lasting impression, and I want to contribute to that.

Additionally, I think that becoming a nurse is a great and selfless job. To provide for their patients and ensure they are secure and comfortable, nurses put their own needs on hold. I absolutely respect this kind of dedication to helping others, and I aim to exhibit it in my own nursing career.

The Economic Benefits of Nursing

The financial stability that comes with being a nurse is one of the reasons I wish to pursue this career. Nursing is a field that is in high demand, which translates to a wealth of job opportunities and competitive salaries.  This profession offers the chance for a stable income, which makes it a good choice for people who want to secure their financial future.

Nursing not only gives economic freedom but also a flexible work schedule that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Many nurses can choose to work part-time or in a variety of places, such as clinics, hospitals, and schools..

A Love for the Science and Art of Nursing

To succeed in the unique field of nursing, one must have both artistic talent and scientific knowledge. This mix is what initially drew me to the thought of becoming a nurse. The human body and its mechanisms have always captivated me, and I enjoy learning about the science that underpins healthcare. But nursing requires more than just a scientific knowledge of the body. It also requires an artistic understanding of the patient and their needs.. Nursing is a demanding and fulfilling job since it combines science and art, which is why I’m drawn to it.

I saw as a child the effect nurses had on patients and their families. Their compassion and understanding have motivated me to seek a profession in nursing because they frequently offer comfort and help in the hardest of situations. My enthusiasm for the science and art of nursing will undoubtedly help me to have a good influence on other people’s lives. I want to work as a nurse and improve the lives of the people I take care of, whether it be by giving medication, educating patients, or just being a reassuring presence.

Continuous Professional Development in Nursing

I think the nursing industry is dynamic and always changing, which gives people a lot of chances to learn and grow. I would have the chance to continuously advance my knowledge and abilities in this sector if I choose to become a nurse. In turn, this would enable me to better care for my patients and stay abreast of professional developments.

There are several different nursing specialties available as well. There are many options, including critical care, pediatrics, gerontology, and surgical nursing. Because of the variety of disciplines available, nurses have the chance to develop their interests and find their niche. 

I am certain that a career in nursing will provide me the chance to pursue my passion for healthcare while also allowing me to grow professionally.

Nursing is a fulfilling and noble career that offers a mix of hands-on care, emotional support, and professional growth. I am inspired by the positive impact nurses have on patients and their families and aim to offer my own empathy and compassion. The nursing industry is constantly changing, providing ample opportunities for growth and job prospects with financial stability. The ultimate reward in a nursing career is the satisfaction of making a difference in people’s lives.

Tips for Writing A Compelling Why I Want To Be A Nurse Essay

Now that you understand the reasons why someone might want to become a nurse, it’s time to learn how to write a compelling essay. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get started:

Create an Outline

Before you start writing, it’s important to identify the main points you’ll discuss in your essay. This will help you stay organized and make your essay easier to read.

Start with an Attention-grabbing Introduction

Your introduction is your chance to make a good first impression and engage the reader. Start with a hook that captures the reader’s attention, such as a surprising statistic or personal story .

Be Specific and Personal

Rather than making general statements about why you want to become a nurse, be specific and personal. Share your own experiences, motivations, and passions, and explain why nursing is the right career choice for you.

Highlight your Skills and Qualifications

Nursing is a demanding and complex profession that requires a wide range of skills and qualifications. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills, such as compassion, communication, and problem-solving, and explain how they make you a good fit for the nursing field.

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Why Do You Want To Be a Nurse? 15 Reasons to Choose a Career in Nursing

If you’ve started submitting applications to nursing schools or told people that you want to be a nurse, you’re probably hearing the question, “Why do you want to be a nurse?” a lot.  

To be honest, it’s a fair question, and each person has their own reasons for wanting to become a nurse. If you’re reading this blog post and wondering if a nursing career is for you, here are the 15 top reasons to choose a career in nursing .

Why Do You Want to Be a Nurse? 15 Reasons

Becoming a nurse is a great career choice with many advantages, including plenty of opportunities for growth and development. Here are the top 15 reasons why you should consider a career in nursing:

1. High Demand for Nurses

Nursing is an increasingly relevant and sought-after career path in today's world. With the aging population, there’s an increasing demand for nursing professionals due to the increased need for both medical and assisted living services. 

On top of this, a shortage of physicians has also increased the demand for primary care providers putting nurse practitioners in much higher demand as well.

2. Ability to Start Working Fast

Nursing is an amazing career choice for many reasons, one of them being that you don't necessarily need an extensive education in order to get started. 

Becoming a CNA or LPN only requires a 1-2 year associate degree and the starting pay is decent too. 

Even if your goal is to become an RN, there are now accelerated BSN programs available at most universities that offer nurses the opportunity to obtain their Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN) quickly so they can begin their careers. 

And most of these programs can be completed online (except for some lab and/or clinical components).

3. Great Pay and Benefits

Another awesome advantage of being a nurse is that most nurses earn a really good salary and have excellent benefits. Although nursing salaries vary widely from state to state, the median annual registered nurse salary in 2022 was $81,220, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Licensed practical nurses earn an average salary of $94,538 a year in 2023 , according to Glassdoor.com.

Nurses also receive a number of benefits that can’t be found in other occupations, such as access to excellent health insurance options, retirement savings plans, flexible hours or shifts, paid vacation time, and even educational assistance programs that can help make continuing your education more affordable. 

>> Show Me Online RN-to-BSN Programs

4. Incentives to Work in Many Different Areas

Besides a great salary and benefits, nurses are also offered special incentives such as higher pay, relocation assistance, hefty sign-on bonuses, and nursing tuition reimbursement to work in high-need areas. 

And there are many places offering these incentives for nurses, from busy urban medical centers to under-served rural and remote communities.

5. Job Security

When it comes to job security, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a job that is more secure and in higher demand. 

Currently, there is a nursing shortage , and this shortage is expected to increase over the next decade due to the aging population of Baby Boomers and a growing need for healthcare services related to chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

6. Professional Respect 

An important part of having a great career is knowing that you’re respected for your skills and the work you do. And when it comes to respect and trust, there is no one more trusted than nurses. 

For the last 20 years, Gallup has found that the public ranks nurses the highest in terms of their honesty and ethics of any occupation or profession, even higher than physicians. Nursing is an incredible career choice due to the tremendous respect you receive from patients, family, peers, and other medical professionals. 

7. Growing Opportunity for Flexible Scheduling

Another important factor when it comes to having a great job and career is a flexible schedule. In fact, a whopping 9 out of 10 employees surveyed said offering flexible scheduling is one of the most important things employers can do to retain employees. And 47.8% said a flexible schedule is even more important than salary.

With an ever-growing demand for healthcare professionals, employers are placing greater emphasis on accommodating remote workers or those who are interested in part-time work. 

In addition to regular hospital or clinic settings, nurses can now take advantage of more per-diem nursing opportunities that fit into their busy lives as well. 

This opens up the field to those who don’t have the necessary time to commit to a full-time nursing position while still allowing them to contribute meaningful work. 

8. Opportunity for Student Loan Forgiveness

Going to school costs a lot of money, even if you go the community college route. Tuition, books, transportation, nursing uniforms and equipment, accommodation, meals, healthcare expenses—the list goes on of the expenses a student has. However, the good news is, many nurses may be eligible for student loan forgiveness programs for nurses . 

9. Job Options Across Various Fields

Unlike many other professional fields, nursing offers a huge amount of variety in terms of the type of work you can do and the types of settings you can work in. 

If you’d like to work with kids, you can be a school nurse , a pediatric nurse , or work in a PICU with sick children. 

Prefer to work with people of all ages for even more variety? Then you can work in a community clinic, emergency department, or as a home care nurse .

And if you have the travel bug and want more adventure, you can be a travel nurse and work almost anywhere you can imagine from large cities to extremely remote locations once you gain some initial nursing experience.

10. Opportunities for Career Advancement

If you’re wondering about opportunities for career advancement, nursing is an excellent career choice for that as well. 

As a nurse, there are many ways to work your way up the career ladder through advanced education in Master’s in Nursing and DNP programs. 

These programs prepare you to specialize as a nurse—which means a nice boost in salary (usually into the 6-figure category)—and often more autonomy. 

And the good news is, there’s high demand for nurse practitioners in a number of different specialties. There are also career paths for nurses who want to pursue healthcare or nursing management, nursing informatics , research or teaching as well.

11. Ability to Make a Difference

If you want a career where you can help people and change their lives, nursing definitely fits the bill. In fact, nursing is an incredibly rewarding career choice because you have the privilege of supporting people when they need your help the most. 

As an example, a nurse may help bring a life into the world for new parents or assist someone in managing a chronic condition who would otherwise be lost without a nurse’s teaching and expertise. 

In the eyes of those they help, nurses truly are everyday heroes.

12. Transferable Skill Set 

The nursing profession is highly marketable and transferable. So those entering the field can expect their experience and training to be valuable from job to job. 

For example, the fundamental medical knowledge and expertise that goes hand-in-hand with being a nurse applies no matter where you go or work. 

Although certain local regulations, technology, and even cultural norms may have slight variations, having a background as a nurse will still apply no matter where you go.

13. Opportunity for Entrepreneurship

The dream of owning your own business is also a real possibility when you become a nurse. Whether it’s starting your own private practice as a nurse practitioner or consultant, publishing medical research, freelance writing, launching a medical-based app or blog, or developing a new medical product, nurses can capitalize on their expertise and hard work by starting their own company.

Ownership over your career and the ability to create lasting change makes nursing an extremely attractive option for those seeking more than a traditional employment position.

14. Opportunity for Autonomy and Independence

One of the best aspects of nursing as a career is that it encourages autonomy and independence, allowing you to make many decisions on your own. 

This is because nurses are given various levels of responsibility depending on their experience and skill level. As a result, this makes nursing an ideal job for those looking for autonomy and independence while still having access to support from their peers, supervisors, and managers. 

15. Highly Satisfying Career

Last but not least, nursing is an extremely satisfying career. Despite how difficult the recent pandemic was for nurses, a 2021 career satisfaction survey of 10,788 nurses (including LPNs, RNs, and NPs) found that more than 90% of the nurses surveyed said they were “glad they chose” to be a nurse.

As you can see, there are many great reasons to choose a career in nursing. So what are you waiting for? Jump online and start applying today!

Leona Werezak BSN, MN, RN is the Director of Business Development at NCLEX Education. She began her nursing career in a small rural hospital in northern Canada where she worked as a new staff nurse doing everything from helping deliver babies to medevacing critically ill patients. Learning much from her patients and colleagues at the bedside for 15 years, she also taught in baccalaureate nursing programs for almost 20 years as a nursing adjunct faculty member (yes! Some of those years she did both!). As a freelance writer online, she writes content for nursing schools and colleges, healthcare and medical businesses, as well as various nursing sites.

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