My Nursing Specialty: Military Nursing

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Education: Q & A with Military to BSN Student Carley Liberty
In 2016, an estimated 1.28 million individuals were active duty personnel within the four branches of the United States military. Three-in-ten veterans who were not exposed to traumatic experiences report that re-entry into civilian life was difficult. Despite these challenges, approximately 1,300 military service members, spouses and children transition into civilian communities each day. Many veterans will choose to pursue a civilian career that compliments their service role and experience. 

Currently a student in Chamberlain’s Military to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) option, Carley Liberty, is paving the road for a career in nursing post-service. She shares how her experiences serving the country have shaped her future as a healthcare professional.

What made you decide to join the U.S. military? How did you choose which branch to serve?
I joined the USAF [United States Air Force], ANG [Air National Guard] because my family is mostly comprised of military and I wanted to continue the legacy. My twin sister and I are the only two out of four [children in my family] that joined and it was an honor to continue the legacy. Out of all of the branches, I felt that the Air Force exemplified all of my values. Integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.

How did your experiences with the Air Force impact your life?
Sacrifice couldn’t even begin to explain the situations that I have had to overcome while serving. Despite this, I feel that the military has fully prepared me for the challenges I am facing now and for any challenges I may face in the future.

Why did you decided to pursue nursing as a career after your service?
I worked and still work alongside nurses and have a great respect for what they do and how they handle certain situations. They are compassionate... and the first line protectors for the patients. 

What helped with your transition from military to student?
Chamberlain has helped me by reassuring me that I am knowledgeable in the medical field. I have brought old knowledge such as critical thinking and medic refreshers; and attained new knowledge to prepare me to be a well-rounded nurse. This has contributed to the transition from a military [combat] medic to a nursing student seamless.

What do you plan to do with your BSN?
With a BSN, I plan to pursue my passion for emergency medicine. I currently work at a level one-trauma center as a technician and absolutely love it. My long-term goal is to be an emergency room Nurse Practitioner. It is an honor to be with those facing and experiencing possibly the worst day of their life and be able to turn it around and care for their every need. Whether it is a listening ear or getting them back to optimal health, I want to be with them every step of the way.

What advice would you have for military personnel considering a Military to BSN option?
I would tell them to be resilient and confident in the knowledge they have attained during their time in service. I would also advise them to [keep an] open [mind] to learning new methods to previously taught skill

Are you a current military personnel, veteran or spouse of active duty/veteran/retired military considering a BSN? Check out Chamberlain’s Military to BSN option now.

By Charlene Decrease