New nursing bridge program helps local RPN advance her nursing career

Brooke Park is a student in the inaugural cohort of Georgian’s Honours Bachelor of Science – Nursing RPN to BScN Advanced Standing Pathway (Bridge) degree, an exciting new chapter in the college’s nursing program history.

The pioneering RPN-to-RN nursing degree program is helping shape the future of nursing education in the region and allowing registered practical nurses (RPNs) like Brooke obtain their nursing degree locally.

As a future registered nurse (RN), she’ll help play a vital role in addressing the ever-growing need for skilled, compassionate health-care professionals in our communities.

We talked to her about why she pursued a nursing career, how she got over her fear of returning to school, what her career goals are, and her advice for others considering applying to the highly competitive bridging program.

Making a positive impact on patient health and well-being

Brooke’s decision to pursue nursing was driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

“I’ve always been drawn to the health-care field because it combines science, empathy and the chance to help others in both small and significant ways,” she says. “The ability to care for someone in their most vulnerable moments is a tremendous responsibility that really resonates with me.”

She also loves nursing for its variety.

Every day presents new challenges – this makes the work very dynamic and offers lots of growth opportunities.

Brooke Park, a student in the inaugural cohort of Georgian's new RPN-to-RN nursing degree bridge smiles broadly at the camera. Her long blond hair is worn down in waves and she's wearing a grey long-sleeved top. She has a nose ring and is wearing minimal makeup. She is sitting in her living room.

Brooke Park completed the Practical Nursing diploma at Georgian before enrolling in the Honours Bachelor of Science – Nursing RPN to BScN Advanced Standing Pathway (Bridge) degree.

Local program…local educational and nursing opportunities

Brooke pursued the bridging program after completing the Practical Nursing diploma at Georgian in 2023 and working as an RPN at a local hospital for a year.

The Orangeville resident credits having the program available at her local campus as part of the reason she was able to pursue additional nursing education and continue working part-time as an RPN working two to three shifts a week.

I enrolled in the bridging program to improve my skills and broaden my scope of practice. The additional clinical time in the program has helped improve my skills, judgment and knowledge, and offer more complete, comprehensive care to patients.

First semester jitters

“I was nervous about returning to school again. Now that the first semester is in my rearview mirror, I feel like the most rewarding part of the experience has been proving to myself that I can succeed academically,” she says.

The support system at Georgian has been invaluable. The faculty members are approachable and always willing to offer guidance, which provides me with a reassuring sense of direction.

A strong peer support network and student supports has added to Brooke’s sense of community.

“It’s comforting knowing we’re all facing the same challenges, and we can lean on one another for encouragement,” adds Brooke. “It helps navigating the demands of the program much easier.”

Long-term career goals

“My long-term career goals are still gestating – there are so many diverse opportunities in the health-care field. Sometimes you don’t know what you’re passionate about until you experience them,” she says. “That said, I’m particularly drawn to fast-paced environments that require critical thinking and the ability to manage complex patient cases.”

Brooke adds that she’s excited the bridging program will provide her with a variety of clinical placement options that will give her the chance to explore different specialties and help her determine the path that best aligns with her interests and strengths.

Advice for other students considering pursuing nursing

Two students work in the state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab where they can practice their skills.

Brooke’s advice to others considering enrolling in the program is to be prepared for a challenging (and rewarding!) journey.

Go into the program with an open mind and a strong commitment to your studies and personal growth. The program can be intense at times, especially if you’re balancing work, school and personal commitments, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills.

Brooke says a strong peer support network, amazing faculty, robust student services, and support from work and family have helped her in her first semester in the program. Here are some tips she says helped her thrive:

1. Lean on your classmates and instructors for support: Building a network with others in the program creates a sense of community and shared learning.

2. Don’t forget to take care of yourself: Self-care and time management are key to staying on track and maintaining a healthy school/work/life balance, especially if/when you’re balancing multiple priorities.

3. Make time for friends and family: Your time may be more limited right now, but their support is essential in helping manage stress and staying grounded.

4. Access student services: They can help with such things as time management – they’re crucial in keeping you on track and feeling supported and successful in your studies.

The RPN-to-RN degree program is offered at Georgian’s Barrie, Orangeville and Owen Sound campuses with an intake each fall. The program is highly competitive, so be sure to get your application in before Feb. 1*.

*Equal consideration date.

Learn more about the RPN-to-RN degree

Published Monday, Jan. 20, 2025

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