5 Questions with a Doctor of Nursing Practice Student ​

Chamberlain University student, Latanya Bather, originally entered the profession to give back to others’ in need, provide care and comfort to the vulnerable and use her skills to ultimately make a lasting impact in the lives of others. Now in the pursuit of her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, Latanya plans to continue to do just that, except on an even larger scale. We recently had the opportunity to speak with Latanya and learn how she’s planning to use her degree to improve patient care and influence the quality of healthcare both in New York, where she currently resides, and her native Jamaica.   

What made you decide to pursue your DNP degree?

I began my nursing career 15 years ago as a transplant nurse. From there, I went on to do ambulatory care, community nursing and home healthcare until deciding I wanted to move into a leadership position so I could impact change at a larger level. I became interested in being the person responsible for creating a confident and compassionate clinical team to improve the quality of patient care.

I earned my Master’s in Administration and then I stumbled across the DNP program through a friend. She told me about Chamberlain’s program, I read the description and knew it was exactly what I wanted to do. This program completely aligns with my future goals.

What are your career goals?

My goal is to provide care on a larger level, across the Caribbean. I was born in Jamaica and I want to help improve the nation’s healthcare. With my DNP experience, I feel confident that I can provide service to the people of Jamaica as it relates to health promotion and education. Last year, I went to Jamaica and provided blood pressure screenings and glucose screenings. I want to continue to advance in leadership and impact change on the largest scale possible.

What resources has Chamberlain provided to help you be successful in the DNP degree program?

First and foremost, Chamberlain employs excellent professors. They are very knowledgeable, supportive and they challenge your thinking. The Canvas platform has made managing my time and accessing resources easier. The resources are endless, from customer service to working with IT, help is always available. Our curriculum is rigorous, so it’s important to have this much support from Chamberlain. Going back to school as a working mom is challenging, but Chamberlain is there for me and has helped boost my confidence.

Would you recommend this program to others, and if so why?

I tell people about the DNP degree program all the time. This is the best graduate school experience I’ve had – it’s amazing to me. And, it’s all online! I don’t have to be in the classroom, but I’m still engaged, the other students are engaged and I don’t feel disconnected. Chamberlain has figured it out!

What advice would you give someone who is hesitant about pursuing their DNP degree?

I would say, ‘I know how you feel,’ and I’d tell them to evaluate why they are looking to get their DNP degree, because it will challenge you in ways you can’t imagine. When you have the feeling you’re being stretched, it means you’re growing and learning and need to keep going until you accomplish your goal.

Whether you want to be a catalyst for change at your local hospital, within your community or for a vulnerable population thousands of miles away, earning your DNP can help you achieve your goals. Learn more about Chamberlain’s DNP degree program today!

By Kari Lawrence