Rebekah Slack

Why FSU?

My ultimate motivation, because I have many, my ultimate 'why', is my twin ten year old boys. Every day, I stive to show them that it's never too late to pursue your dreams. Life is a journey filled with challenges, but I want them to understand that with determination and resilience, they can turn those dreams into achievable goals. No matter how many times you may stumble or how long the path may seem, the key is to rise each time, keep pushing forward, and work tirelessly towards your aspirations. I want my boys to see that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. The reason I chose to pursue my Doctor of Nursing Practice at Florida State University is the caliber of nursing educators on staff. They are exceptional, with many faculty members bringing years of experience and advanced degrees to the classroom. The College of Nursing is not only committed to academic excellence but also evolves to meet the future of healthcare. This alignment with innovation and growth is essential for me as I seek to become a leader in advancing healthcare, particularly in my rural community of Jefferson County, FL. At FSU, I am confident that I am gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact, not just for myself, but for those I serve.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

As an RN with over a decade of experience in family medicine. I have witnessed firsthand the pressing need for transformative change within the specialty. The current landscape presents numerous challenges, from stringent insurance criteria that dictate appropriate reimbursement to the increasing number of medically complex patients with multiple comorbidities. These factors contribute to heightened stress for family medicine providers and their staff, as they grapple with overwhelming patient volumes. It is imperative that we reevaluate and overhaul the existing business model to ensure adequate ancillary and support staffing. This change will empower family medicine providers to reclaim their ability to spend meaningful time with their patients, rather than merely meeting numerical targets. At Florida State University, I am dedicated to collaborating with peers, engaging in research and refining my leadership and advocacy skills. Through this journey, I aim to network with local providers and uncover a successful business model that not only addresses these systemic issues but also paves the way for my own autonomous family medicine practice in the future. By prioritizing patient-centered care and innovative strategies, I aspire to create a practice that enhances the well-being of both providers and patients alike.

Career aspirations

I am focused on becoming an APRN with a DNP degree in Family Medicine, aiming to advocate for and establish full service health and dental clinics in school settings particularly in rural communities. I am dedicated to addressing the healthcare needs of underserved populations, especially children from low-income backgrounds and aspire to create a supportive environment that promotes holistic well-being and educational success. My goal is to leverage my experiences and education to make a significant impact in family medicine and community health.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

If you are contemplating graduate school, my advice is simple: Go for it! Don't wait! Time is of the essence, and there will never be a perfect moment to start this journey. Yes, it requires hard work and sacrifices, but remember that this is a relatively short period in the grand scheme of your life. The grind may be intense, but the growth you will experience during this time is invaluable. Embrace the challenges as they will unlock a world of opportunities for you. This journey will not only enhance your knowledge and skills but will also expand your horizons and empower you to make a meaningful impact in your field. So, take that leap of faith and invest in yourself-your future self will thank you for it!

Who has been most influential in your graduate journey and why?

Throughout my nursing career journey, numerous individuals have played pivotal roles in shaping my path, but the first that comes to mind is my family. Their unwavering encouragement and support have been the foundation of my pursuit of excellence. I have been tryly blessed to have a "village" of nurses and doctors around me, each with their unique experiences and stories that inspired me to persevere and strive for greatness. However, the most profound influence in my nursing career has come from my patients and the community I serve. Previously working in a local health department I served as a community health nurse in the school health program, I found my passion deepening. Many of these children came from challenging socioeconomic backgrounds, facing multiple mental health issues stemming from traumatic experiences. They often struggle with inadequate dental hygiene and general health, and in my role, I became not only their nurse but also their advocate. Being their safe space at school allowed me to witness the resilience and determination of these young individuals. It resonated deeply with me, reinforcing my commitment to making a difference in their lives. These experiences are the driving force behind my decision to pursue my DNP as an APRN. In the future I hope to advocate for the establishment of a full service health and dental clinic on school campuses, particularly in rural communities where underserved, low income populations can benefit immensely.