When did you first decide to become a nurse, and why?

How to Answer
1st Entry Level Example
1st Answer Example
1st Experienced Example
2nd Experienced Example

Understanding what drove you to become a nurse speaks volumes to the interviewer. The interviewer knows that you are dedicated or you wouldn't have gone to nursing school and wouldn't be willing to travel to care for others. This is a chance for the interviewer to get to know you; share your personal thoughts.

"From the time I was in junior high school, all I could think of was growing up and becoming a nurse. My best friend's dad was a family practitioner and I remember being very young, sitting in a room and talking with him about his practice. He would always lighten up about his amazing staff, especially the nurses. He made me realize that becoming a nurse was what I wanted to be. I have always remembered him and his genuine personality, optimism, and the love he had for his nursing staff."

"I came from a family of educators, and was initially an education major in college. Through some friends, I joined a community service group and discovered how much I enjoyed helping people. During that same time period, both of my grandparents were diagnosed with cancer, and our whole family was very active in their care. My grandfather's oncologist became a close and influential role model for me during those early years. It was this combination of personal experiences, and the utility of applying science and technology to help people, which transformed my career aspirations."

"For me, nursing was the only option. Initially I wasn't sure what specialty area I was going to work in. I started nursing school and felt captivated by all of the medical staff and healthcare professionals that I met and worked alongside. I have worked in several specialty areas and am excited about the opportunity to now work as a travel nurse."

"I've always known I wanted to be a nurse. From a young age I was intrigued by the medical field and I loved the impact that nurses have on an individual's life and medical care. I enjoy being able to work closely with patients and provide them with physical care while also providing support as their advocate."