“If you find a job you enjoy doing, you will never have to work a day in your life.”– Mark Twain

This quote is a favorite of Daemen University‘s Dr. Rose Bell – and one she firmly believes in. An accomplished military veteran and nurse with more than 30 years in the industry, Bell serves as the associate professor and director of the Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Program at Daemen.

Why did you choose nursing as your industry or field of study?

Bell: I always wanted to be a nurse, and once I started I never looked back.

Nursing is about the journey – not all patients survive. You have to realize it’s not just about caring for patients, you are on a journey alongside them. So, sometimes you’re an advocate, sometimes you’re a healer, sometimes you’re a counselor. However, that’s the great thing about nursing, there are so many different paths to choose from.

What are the first steps to take when deciding to become a nurse?

When considering this field, you have to understand that it’s driven by compassionate energy to help others. It’s emotional, it’s scientific, it’s hands-on helping. So, do your research. Shadowing, for example, is a great way to learn the different settings, to really understand what it looks like to be a nurse.

Are there different levels of nursing degrees and/or certifications?

Oh yes! There are endless certifications and so many different paths you can take.

For example, nurses can go into a holistic setting, work in a hospital, or in setting to treat addiction. There are stroke centers, oncology facilities, home care (which means some nurses work from home and can do virtual work) – or even academic.

There are no boundaries when it comes to nursing. There are many opportunities to grow and learn, as a result, you are never limited.

One of your areas of expertise is what’s known as survivorship – what is it, and why did you choose that specialty?

Survivorship literally means the act of surviving.

The cancer population spoke to me – cancer patients’ journey’s don’t end when their treatment ends. Survivorship programs allow us as nurses to continue the journey with the patient, setting interim goals for them and starting them on a pathway and a plan of care for healing and emotional support.

You obtained a Ph.D. Tell us – what difference does that make in the field?

It offers more of a college academic setting. Nursing is an ever-changing field, so the opportunities to constantly learn and grow are boundless.

It’s also a great way to get involved with board rooms and leadership, which we need more of in nursing. For me, it was a natural next step. I love teaching and watching our nursing students thrive.

Do you agree there is a shortage of nurses right now? What can be done about it?

Yes, I do agree. The pandemic really put a spotlight on the need for nurses and has really shown how nurses are considered “front-line” workers. Having more nurse faculty, messaging on the value of nurses, and a strong recruitment process is crucial.

Daemen is a great example of our program leading the way for future nurses. However, there also needs to be more emotional support for nurses; we need care just like everyone else.

Why do you feel nursing is a great investment?

The nursing profession is garnering more respect and attention; it’s a trusting career with so much versatility. It truly gives you everything you want to be able to do in life! I mean what other profession can you say, “Nurses are there when you come into the world, and are there when you leave it!”