Hired Before Graduation – Jill Wetter
Name: Jill Wetter
Hometown: Platteville, Wisconsin
Graduation date: May 18, 2019
Area of study: Nursing
Place of employment: MercyOne
Job title: Registered nurse
Job responsibilities: I will be working in a critical care unit where I will care for critically ill patients.
How did Southwest Tech prepare you for your current position? When I started nursing school, I thought I wanted to be an ER nurse. I did not consider working in critical care until one of my instructors mentioned I would be good at it. Then, another instructor told me about a ride along program with a flight nurse, and it was at that point that I knew I wanted to pursue a career in critical care. I then began to apply for jobs in critical care units. The intense nursing curriculum at SWTC prepared me to take the NCLEX, but the values of the instructors and the culture of SWTC prepared me for the workforce.
Why did you choose your field of study? I chose to pursue a nursing career because of the versatility the profession offers. It is also one of the most trusted and respected professions. Massive advancements are being made in medicine right now; how lucky I am to be involved in healthcare.
What advice would you have for other students thinking about advancing their education? One of the greatest things my instructor ever told me was, “you are responsible for your own learning.” I would pass this on to future students. The instructors at SWTC are great resources, but in the end, your own learning is in your hands. One last thing, don’t forget to hug a nursing student!