We all have our “why” in life, and sometimes, reminding ourselves why we do what we do and why we made certain choices in life (especially those related to our work) can be empowering and help reconnect us to our purpose, passion, and personal mission!
In this feature, we hear from Ashley Reynolds, BSN, RN, CV-BC, nurse educator at WVU Medicine United Hospital Center.
Q: Why did you go into nursing?
A: From the first time I can remember being asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare and that I wanted to help people. I was in middle school when my uncle had a myocardial infarction that required a long stay at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I was completely amazed by the compassionate care delivered by the nurses during his stay.
God opened every door and led the way for me to get here today on my journey. I became a nurse in May of 2020 and started my career during the pandemic, which often made me question my choice. However, my passion for ensuring that my patients receive the same care I had witnessed my uncle receive all those years ago outweighed any doubt. I also must recognize the numerous nursing mentors I had who taught and guided me along the way.
Nursing is an extremely supportive career, and the many individuals who invested in me and genuinely cared about my success made a lasting impression. I now aspire to be that mentor for new nurses. I want to remind them of their “why” and what an honor it is to care for others during the most difficult times.
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