Nursing Student Spotlight: Blaine Reeser, Indianapolis

Blaine Reeser, a 3-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) student at Chamberlain’s Indianapolis campus, was stuck.

A final study session had been scheduled, and it was so last minute that she couldn’t get a babysitter for her 18-month-old son. Her professor’s response? Just bring him.

“While we were getting ready, my professor sat down with him and read him a book,” Reeser said. “He stayed busy and I went over everything quickly with my group. I ended up getting a 90 on my final, and just that review was really helpful for me.”

We recently caught up with Blaine to hear more about her experiences in nursing school:

Why did you want to become a nurse?

I’ve always felt a desire to serve others. I went to school the first time to become a teacher. Although I loved being a teacher, I kept thinking about nursing. So I did a lot shadowing on different units to see if it was something I was really interested in.

What has your experience been like at Chamberlain so far?

It’s great, I’m very pleased. It’s a big investment – people often ask me how much it costs. I don’t think people realize that although it is a big investment, you’re getting what you pay for. It’s not just signing up for classes – you’re getting other resources and support as well.

I’m just thrilled with the professors that I’ve had at the Indianapolis campus. I’ve talked with my friends about this – we actually feel like they care. They’re not just trying to get students through a class. They’re supporting us, showing us what it’s really going to be like, and they’re very determined to watch us succeed.

Study sessions aren’t something that professors are required to have, but I have a professor today who had a study session. I had a professor who met with me before my study session to go over a test. She also calls students who make top grades on the tests to let them know and congratulate them. As a second-time college student, I’ve had experience with other professors and, although they did a great job, there is just a greater group of quality professors at Chamberlain. When they see you working hard, they work hard for you too and support you in any way that they can.

How do you balance school with family?

It’s tricky, it’s definitely tricky. That was actually something that was keeping me from nursing school, but my parents encouraged me to learn more about Chamberlain. Luckily for me, I have family who will watch my son for me while my husband is at work. It’s also nice when classes are offered online – I’m taking sociology online right now, and that’s one less hour of babysitting I need to find.

How do you find time to study?

When my son is up, I’m doing things around the house like cleaning, while I keep an eye on him. But when he is asleep, I don’t do anything but study or work on projects or assignments that are due so I don’t have to multitask. He is also getting to an age where he can play. I will also use him sometimes to practice – for clinical assessments, I will listen to him, which is good practice if I ever have to work on a baby.

What are your goals in nursing?

I’m interested in everything. I plan to be open to everything and see where it takes me – when you have an open mind you are open to more opportunities. I do know that I would like to volunteer with Remote Area Medical ®, which sets up clinics to provide medical care to those without insurance.

"My professor allowed me to bring my son to a pathophysiology study session today because I couldn't find a babysitter. She even sat down and read a book with him. Love the professors at my campus!" 

By Molly Mattison