Paris Morgan, a student at the UNM College of Nursing, shared her inspiration for pursuing a nursing degree, influenced by her Navajo grandfather who was a medicine man. She emphasized the importance of having Native American healthcare providers who understand the unique needs of rural reservation life. Morgan expressed her desire to be a nurse who recognizes the diversity within Native American communities, stating, “we are nuanced groups.”
With a goal of returning to Gallup, New Mexico to serve her community on the Navajo reservation, Morgan is currently gaining experience as a scribe in the emergency department of a local hospital. She described the fast-paced environment as keeping her on her toes and highlighted the collaborative nature of the nursing program at UNM.
Regarding her experience in the Freshman Direct-Entry BSN program, Morgan expressed her enthusiasm for learning alongside her peers and the accelerated path it offers towards her career goals. She emphasized the benefits of starting the nursing curriculum early and building strong bonds with fellow students who share the same passion for healthcare.
Morgan concluded by saying, “I’m excited to be learning more and more every day, alongside my peers. This program is going to help me get to where I want to be quicker, and I’m grateful for that.”
