Dr. Emily Cabrera ’09, Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences at Anna Maria College, is an alumna who built a successful career as a registered nurse and educator. Now, she prepares nursing students for meaningful careers. In her Q&A, Dr. Cabrera shares what sets Anna Maria’s RN to BSN program apart and the impact it has on future nursing professionals.
How does the RN to BSN program benefit students? What does it mean for their future careers?
The program is designed to elevate RNs by providing a comprehensive BSN curriculum that emphasizes not only clinical skills but also leadership, health assessment, evidence-based practice, and community health. This broader educational foundation helps nurses handle complex healthcare situations, which can be a game-changer in various clinical settings. With a BSN, nurses gain additional qualifications that often make them eligible for advanced roles and specialized certifications.
What is unique about Anna Maria’s program?
The flexibility of Anna Maria College’s online RN-BSN completion program with 8-week semesters is a strong advantage for students who need to balance work, school, and personal life. This structure enables them to progress at a pace that fits their individual needs, without sacrificing work or family responsibilities. Additionally, the ability to start coursework before passing the NCLEX-RN exam is a fantastic opportunity for students eager to advance their nursing education. This option not only helps students gain momentum in their studies but also allows them to move forward on their professional path without delay. This streamlined approach supports students in achieving their BSN goals and positions them well for future career growth.
In a world where there are shortages in healthcare how does the RN-BSN help solve this community issue?
Graduating with a BSN opens doors to more career opportunities, including roles in management, advanced clinical settings, and specialized fields like public health or case management. A BSN degree is increasingly becoming a standard in healthcare institutions, as studies show that BSN-prepared nurses contribute to better patient outcomes. Many healthcare facilities now prefer or require nurses to have a BSN for hiring and promotion, which can make a significant difference for those looking to advance in their careers.
Why are you proud of the program?
As an alum of Anna Maria College who completed the RN-BSN program, I am deeply appreciative of the exceptional education I received. The RN-BSN program provided a solid foundation that significantly advanced my professional nursing journey, opening numerous professional and academic opportunities along the way. I am enthusiastic about sharing this experience with future RNs who are eager to pursue their RN-BSN, as I believe Anna Maria’s program is a valuable stepping stone for those looking to expand their career horizons in nursing.
What advice would you give to perspective students who might be hesitant to join the program?
For prospective students who may feel hesitant, I would encourage them to consider the value of a BSN in today’s healthcare environment. While the transition from an RN to a BSN program might seem challenging, the long-term benefits in terms of career advancement, earning potential, and job security are considerable. Joining the program is an investment in their future that can also lead to greater job satisfaction as they’re equipped to take on roles that require critical thinking and leadership. If you’re considering the Anna Maria College RN-BSN program, remember that this is more than just earning a degree—Anna Maria College is a supportive community dedicated to guiding you through this next chapter of your academic and professional journey.
