Susan D. Flynn Memorial Oncology Nursing Externship

When I first started nursing school, I was not sure which area of nursing I wanted to devote myself to. After a few conversations with professionals in the field and some research, I quickly developed an interest in oncology. As a result, I applied to the Susan D. Flynn Memorial Oncology Nursing Externship thinking that it was what I wanted to do. Now that I have completed the externship, I can say without a doubt that I absolutely I love oncology and that there is nothing in the world I would rather be than an oncology nurse. This externship allowed me to not only solidify my decision but also to gain priceless experience in the field as an oncology nurse. There are many things that are unique and valuable in this program, one of which includes the fact that as an extern, you get to work full shifts alongside nurses who teach through conversation, observation, and, most importantly, by letting you work hands-on; this is especially valuable considering how many externship programs only allow the externs to work as patient care technicians. This program also allows the opportunity to work in multiple locations in order to allow the externs to gain experience in every cancer care setting. Needless to say, the amount of knowledge and skills I acquired, along with the number of amazing nurses and patients I worked with, made for my greatest summer so far and helped set a solid foundation on which to build an oncology nursing career.

Written by: Claudia Garcia