Finding My Calling: Amanda Martin's Journey in Nursing

In celebration of Nurse’s Week, we’re highlighting the stories of our remarkable alumni who are making a difference in healthcare. Today, we’re honored to share Amanda Martin’s inspiring journey from nursing student to compassionate hospice leader.

The Path to Nursing: Following in Admired Footsteps

For Amanda Martin, nursing wasn’t just a career choice—it was a calling that began in childhood. “I wanted to become a nurse from early on in life,” Amanda recalls. Her aunt Karen, a dedicated nurse, sparked this passion by occasionally bringing Amanda to work with her. “I would sit at the nurse’s station. I would interact with the other nurses and the doctors. I knew I wanted to be like her and work in the healthcare field for sure.”

Those formative experiences at her aunt’s workplace left a lasting impression, planting the seeds for what would eventually blossom into a fulfilling nursing career. The compassion, teamwork, and purpose she witnessed in those early days established a foundation for her professional aspirations.

Finding the Right Educational Fit

When it came time to pursue her nursing education, Amanda needed a program that would accommodate her life circumstances. The ADN Nursing program at Bryant & Stratton College Wauwatosa Campus proved to be the perfect match.

“My favorite part about the nursing program at Bryant & Stratton College was the flexibility,” Amanda explains. “I was able to work full time and go to school full time. I was able to move classes around to make it a little easier to continue to be able to support myself and my family.”

This flexibility proved crucial for Amanda, as it is for many nursing students who are balancing multiple responsibilities. The program’s adaptable structure allowed her to pursue her passion without sacrificing financial stability—a delicate balance that many aspiring healthcare professionals struggle to maintain.

Influential Mentorship

Throughout her educational journey, Amanda encountered instructors who did more than just teach nursing skills—they shaped her approach to the profession. One educator in particular stands out in her memory.

“Professor Finger was one of my favorites,” Amanda shares warmly. “I took her class at the very end of my schooling. She was tough but brought out the very best. She wanted everyone to succeed but looked further than just graduating. She saw the big picture before we even did.”

The impact of this mentorship extended beyond graduation day. “I remember she was one of the first people I let know that I passed my NCLEX,” Amanda adds, highlighting the meaningful connection that had formed between student and teacher.

Finding Her “Why” in Hospice Care

After completing her education, Amanda discovered her true calling in hospice nursing—a field that demands exceptional compassion, resilience, and dedication.

“I currently work in hospice. I absolutely plan to stay in hospice,” she states with conviction. “I was meant to be a Hospice Nurse. I absolutely love caring for those who are at end of life; ensuring that their final journey is what they want it to be.”

Her passion for this field has led to growth opportunities as well. “I moved into a leadership role less than a year ago and now I get to support other nurses in their love for hospice,” she explains. Yet even as she embraces leadership responsibilities, Amanda maintains a connection to direct patient care: “I still love getting out in the field and never want to lose that hands-on care. I pick up on-call when I can to ensure I don’t lose my ‘why’.”

This commitment to staying grounded in clinical practice while taking on leadership duties demonstrates Amanda’s understanding that effective nursing leadership remains connected to the frontline experiences of care delivery.

The Heart of Nursing Practice

When asked what she loves most about working as a nurse today, Amanda’s answer reveals the essence of nursing excellence: “I love the compassion and education I can provide. Not only am I an advocate for my patients but I am also the voice for family and loved ones.”

These words capture the multidimensional role that nurses play—they are educators, advocates, and compassionate caregivers all at once. For Amanda, nursing isn’t just about medical interventions; it’s about ensuring that patients and their families are heard, understood, and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

Looking Toward the Future

Amanda’s commitment to nursing excellence doesn’t end with her current role. She has ambitious plans for continued growth and development. “I do have plans to go back to school for my masters,” she shares. “I would like to major in Leadership and Administration. I think that a strong leadership team can and will support a team as a whole.”

Her motivation for pursuing advanced education is rooted in her belief in the power of effective leadership—something she already experiences in her workplace. “I currently work with a team of incredible leaders who I strive to be more like every day. Clear, kind, fair, but fun,” she explains.

Carrying the Torch Forward

As we celebrate Nurse’s Week, Amanda Martin’s story reminds us of the profound impact that nursing professionals make every day. From following in her aunt’s footsteps to finding her calling in hospice care, her journey illustrates the transformative power of nursing education and the importance of finding the specialty area where one’s skills and passions align.

For current and future nursing students at Bryant & Stratton College, Amanda’s path offers inspiration and valuable insights. Her experiences highlight the importance of flexibility in education, the lasting influence of dedicated instructors, and the rewards of finding one’s unique place within the vast field of nursing. As she continues to grow as a hospice nurse and leader, Amanda Martin exemplifies the very best of what nursing can be.

In recognition of her exemplary career and commitment to nursing excellence, Amanda will serve as the Commencement speaker at the Wisconsin commencement ceremony. This honor reflects the lasting impact she has made not only on her patients and colleagues but also on the B&SC community!