Cherishing your time and making yourself proud

Juggling all the aspects of life is nothing short of a challenge. Between keeping up with school and working a traditional job, it’s difficult to find time for yourself. 

But for Roxanne Robinson, the hard work was worth the result. After earning her bachelor’s degree at Indiana University Northwest, she’s now completing her Master of Science in Nursing. “I always knew I would further my education and become an advanced practice nurse,” she said. “I wanted to care for a diverse patient population.”

One of her major interest areas is disease processes. Robinson said she’s spent lots of time researching diseases and what can be done to improve a patient’s health. “I love the idea of caring for everyone, young and old,” she said.

Robinson is a caring person by nature, so when her master’s education conflicted with her personal life, it was a major obstacle. She said she sometimes had to miss her children’s sporting events and forego time with family to take on the responsibility of earning an advanced degree.

“I cherished the time that I did have with my family when I was off, taking time out each day for my kids and husband to catch up,” Robinson said. “It was important for me to let them see that they were always on my mind.”

Fortunately, Robinson had extra support from her mother, Sherry. Just like her daughter, Sherry graduated from IU Northwest with an MSN. Roxanne Robinson said she was lucky to have a mother who understood all the challenges she was facing.

“My mom is one of the most compassionate, smartest and giving people I know,” Robinson said. “I have always looked up to her.”

Going forward, Robinson is excited to use her advanced education to care for patients. She credits the campus for boosting her confidence and giving her the chance to practice a wide variety of procedures, which will bolster her ability to provide quality care. She is also thankful for a core group of supportive women she met at IU Northwest, with whom she plans to keep in touch.

Robinson is ready to jump back into the field and create lasting relationships with people of all backgrounds. “I want to work locally as an advanced practice nurse serving the underrepresented and most vulnerable populations,” she said. “I feel everyone deserves quality, holistic and trustworthy care.”

Robinson considers herself a lifelong learner and encourages others to always make the most of their educational experiences. For her, giving up is never the answer and the hard work will always be worth it in the end.

“Graduating will be one of the proudest moments in your life,” Robinson said is her advice to others looking to get a master’s. “No one just handed it to you.”

While the journey wasn’t easy, the destination is worth it — especially for all the patients who will benefit from Robinson’s knowledge and compassion.