Nancy Barreto
"Earning this degree has opened the door to advanced practice opportunities and deepened my sense of purpose within the profession."
Q: "Tell us about yourself: your family, friends, interests, and hobbies."
A: "I am someone who deeply values connection with my family, friends, and the people I encounter in everyday life. My family is at the center of who I am, a source of strength, laughter, and inspiration. I enjoy watching films, reading, and entertaining, creating warm, welcoming environments where others feel comfortable and engaged. I am always looking for ways to grow, whether through new ideas, creative outlets, or experiences that enrich my perspective."
Q: "Describe your professional background prior to enrolling, what motivated you to pursue this degree, and your long-term career goals."
A: "My healthcare career spans nearly a decade and reflects a sustained commitment to patient care and personal growth. I began as a Certified Nursing Assistant, where I developed a foundation in compassionate, hands-on care and gained an appreciation for the human side of medicine.
Driven by a desire to expand my impact, I pursued further education and advanced within the field, ultimately earning a master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My decision to specialize in mental health was motivated by the critical need for accessible psychiatric care and a passion for supporting individuals through their most vulnerable moments.
Looking ahead, I plan to further my clinical expertise and take on more advanced roles in patient care, leadership, and advocacy within the mental health field."
Q: "How have you applied what you learned in your role, and how has this degree impacted your career growth or direction?"
A: "The knowledge and training I gained, particularly in patient assessment, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice, have allowed me to provide more comprehensive care. I now approach patient care with a more holistic perspective, considering not only physical health but also emotional and psychological well-being. This has improved my communication with patients, my ability to advocate for their needs, and my collaboration with interdisciplinary teams. Earning this degree has opened the door to advanced practice opportunities and deepened my sense of purpose within the profession."
Q: "What will stay with you most from your Norwich experience, and what advice would you give to prospective students?"
A: "What will stay with me most is the sense of growth both professionally and personally that I achieved throughout the program. I developed discipline, resilience, and confidence in my abilities, and the connections I built with faculty and peers created a genuinely supportive learning environment.
For prospective students, I would advise approaching the program with dedication, strong time management, and an open mindset. Engage actively with instructors and peers; those interactions greatly enrich the experience. This program is an investment in your future, and the effort you put in will be reflected in your growth."
Q: "Why did you choose Norwich University Online? What influenced your decision to pursue an online program, and which aspects of the online learning experience proved most beneficial to you?"
A: "I chose Norwich University Online because it offered the flexibility to balance professional responsibilities with personal commitments. As a full-time healthcare professional and a parent, I needed a program that allowed me to pursue advanced education without compromising either. The online format allowed me to structure my learning around my schedule, stay present for my family, and continue developing professionally. It fostered discipline, time management, and independence, qualities that are essential both academically and in practice."
Q: "What were your expectations before starting the program? How did your experience compare, and what aspects stood out most to you?"
A: "Before starting, I anticipated a rigorous academic experience that would challenge me intellectually and require strong self-discipline. I expected demanding coursework, but hoped it would provide practical knowledge I could apply directly in healthcare.
My experience exceeded those expectations. The curriculum blended theoretical foundations with real-world application, and I was able to integrate what I was learning into my practice almost immediately. What stood out most was the level of engagement and support within the online environment. Instructors were knowledgeable and genuinely invested in student success, and diverse peer perspectives enriched every discussion."
