Emilie, RN

What made you want to become a nurse?

Like many of us who are privileged to receive medical care throughout our lives, I, too, have been a patient – in primary care offices, in emergency rooms, and at tertiary centers. It is a vulnerable experience to receive care in any way – from our loved ones themselves to more medical or service settings. It’s always been nurses who made me feel seen, who made me feel heard, and who held space for me. I have those experiences to thank for being drawn to this career. What I love most about this career is being able to hold space for people; it’s a tremendous privilege.

For nurses, patient care can look different depending on the setting you’re in. What does patient care look like for you as a Jewish Board nurse?

I work at a group residence for adolescent male youths and in a trauma-informed setting with a lovely interdisciplinary team of social workers, supportive staff, vocational coaches, and administrative personnel. We make a great team of passionate and caring souls.

What’s your favorite part about being a nurse at The Jewish Board?

I have never felt more appreciated and impactful as a nurse than while working at The Jewish Board. My work colleagues are people who genuinely care about the work they are doing, no matter what they are doing.

What’s the last song you listened to?

I’ve been listening to These Days by Nico.

You spend so much time caring for others; what’s one way you practice self-care?

I’ve been taking abstract painting classes every day after work for the last several months, and I do yoga in the park every morning! If I’m not doing either of those two things, I’m somewhere in the forest.

Do you have a message for your fellow nurses?

Never doubt that there is a place for you in this profession. We can all find fulfillment and joy here. It’s worth it.