Kettering College’s MSN Program Elevates Nursing Career
Diana Hollen is an adjunct Nursing instructor at Kettering College and has been working at Kettering Health for nearly two decades in various roles.
She says, “I have found immense joy in working alongside my peers and watching my students grow in their knowledge and confidence. Witnessing those “lightbulb” moments when something clicks for them is truly one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.”
In addition to being a Nursing instructor at Kettering College, Diana continues to work bedside as a float pool nurse for Kettering Health. She says, “This allows me to stay up to date with the current happenings in the hospital setting and apply this knowledge to our students.”
She feels fortunate to be able to work in both roles, as it allows her to have a unique perspective on nursing education and the practical application of nursing care. She says, “I am passionate about my work and am committed to helping our students succeed.”
As her nursing career has progressed over the years, she took on the role of clinical nurse manager where she “felt a calling to lead and inspire others in their own nursing abilities.”
Her work in that position made her realize she has a heart for leadership and teaching. Knowing this, she decided to pursue a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) at Kettering College. She says, “I hope to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to continue leading others in whatever role the Lord guides me to.”
She admits she was apprehensive to start an advanced degree since she is already taking on so much in her life. However, she says, “I have discovered that my fears were unfounded. I have been able to balance my work, school, and home life well because each class has been only seven weeks long.”
She notes the shorter duration of each class has made the workload more manageable. “It has also allowed me to focus more on the material and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. The professors are knowledgeable and helpful, and the coursework is challenging but rewarding,” she says.
“My ultimate goal is to become an educator in a classroom setting, where I can share my passion for nursing and inspire future generations of nurses. By completing the MSN program in the fall of 2025, I will be one step closer to achieving this personal goal and making a positive impact on the nursing community.”
Diana says, “As a nursing instructor, I have found that my students have taught me as much as I have taught them. Although my primary focus is on teaching them nursing skills, my experience in the MSN program has helped me understand the importance of utilizing personal skills such as leadership to help them succeed. One class, in particular, “The Leader Within,” has taught me how to apply these leadership skills to my students during clinical sessions.”
As she moves from patients’ bedsides to the classroom she leads to the classroom she attends as a student, Diana Hollen says each situation is a continuous learning experience for her. She says, “I am constantly growing and evolving alongside my students. I am excited to see where the future takes me and what new lessons I will learn along the way.”
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