Lessons in Nursing Leadership: Transition From Academic Medical Center to Community Practice

Careers are a journey, and I have found that I have returned to my roots. I started my nursing career as a registered nurse (RN) in a rural community hospital and enjoyed it for 5 years before yearning for more specialization and opportunities. I left the community practice setting to increase my knowledge in critical care and emergency nursing at a large academic medical center in the Midwest. This involved a commute of 100 miles round trip. I experienced a variety of staff nurse positions, and branched into leadership positions. I held positions as an assistant nurse manager, nurse manager, nurse educator, clinical director, and nurse administrator. I always enjoyed a challenge and liked to do many things so always considered myself a utility player.