By Taylor Williams
WGU Indiana has created a $2,000 scholarship that is dedicated to night shift nurses who want to return to school. Night shift nurses are known for their hard work and dedication to their profession. They live with the reality that people need care beyond standard business hours. While it’s a job that might not be attractive to everyone, many night shift nurses love what they do. WGU Indiana student and WGU Night Shift Nurse Scholarship recipient Dea Gillfillan is one of them. She thoroughly enjoys her role as a night shift nurse.
“I think we have a better time at night," said Gillfillan. "We work on our own and get our stuff done. We also have camaraderie amongst each other and we make sure to help each other with any problem we might be facing.”
When Gillfillan received a WGU Indiana Night Shift Nurses scholarship in 2017, it enabled her to work less and put more focus on obtaining her degree with WGU Indiana. Gillfillan says WGU Indiana was a perfect choice. An online university that was flexible with courses and time commitment was number one on her list. A year into her degree program, she is more confident than ever and is looking forward to finishing her bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN) in 2019.
Being a night shift nurse also plays a role in Gillfillan being successful as a student. As a night shift nurse, it’s important that to be a self-starter. This self-starter attitude Gillfillan uses at work helps her stay on top of her courses and studying, with the help of her course mentor.
Working the night shift and pursuing a degree fits perfectly in Gillfillan’s schedule. “I plan a lot. I have a calendar to write down when I work, when things are due, and when I should study,” she said. Gillfillan has motivated other night shift nurses to return to school, as well. “It’s surprising what you can do when you put your mind to it,” explained Gillfillan. “If you’re not doing it, you’re not trying.”
Learn more about the WGU Indiana Night Shift Nurse Scholarship.
