In only 12 months, Patrick O’Brien graduated in 2023 with a BSN through IU Online. He’s now a clinical nursing supervisor in the Renal Medical Unit at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in South Bend. He heads a 32-bed unit as a charge nurse and supervises more than 100 employees. His responsibilities include overseeing scheduling, hiring, firing, day-to-day processes, and patient satisfaction scores. “I’ve fallen in love with my job. I discovered I have a knack for leadership. My BSN was the door to my career.”
IU Online flexibility made it possible
“IU Online was the answer to my search,” says O’Brien. “The biggest plus was the flexibility. I fit classwork in around working three 12-hour night shifts. It was all online, and I could complete the program in 12 months, while other programs required two years. This meant huge savings in time and money.”
IU Online is all about personal connections
O’Brien found IU Online a stark contrast to his first two online universities, where he earned an Associate’s in Liberal Arts, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. “The connection and interaction I felt at IU Online are unique. All my professors were so accessible. I was surprised and pleased that even with so many remote students they took such a personal interest in us. Sharon Imes was especially attentive. She recognized my progress and met me on my own level. She sent personal notes and said it was a pleasure to teach and work with me. I could feel her support.”
Student diversity enriches opportunity
“The questions and answers students posted in discussion groups were a great way to get to know each other. Many were nurses from different states and hospitals. Some had been in the field for 20 or 30 years. The variety of specialties and backgrounds introduced ideas I’d never thought of. The diversity of perspectives made discussion boards a really important part of the class experience.”
Classes taught skills I need on the job
“My classes provided extremely good professional preparation. Other nurses now come to me for clinical guidance. I understand how the healthcare team works as a whole, and the role of specialists. I can see my role as a leader in a holistic sense, and can interface with other leaders to create a well-functioning system.”
Empowered for the future
With his degree and love for his position, O’Brien sees bright opportunity ahead. “While I put my energy into a job I really love, I can see where this job will take me—maybe a master’s or even a doctorate in Nursing or Hospital Management. I’m enjoying myself and taking my time.”
Advice to prospective students
“If you’re considering an online program, don’t just jump in. Your learning will be self-guided. Think about what works for you, your schedule, and your learning style. Go at your own pace. You can start with just one or two courses. Nursing is all about continually leaning and growing. It may seem intimidating at first, but you learn and grow and suddenly you’re on the other side! I had wonderful support at IU Online. I’m glad I took the time to further my education. IU Online shaped my career.”
