essay for nursing school

How to Write an Essay About Why I Want to Become A Nurse

Writing about why you want to be a nurse is your chance to tell your unique story. It’s not just about listing your qualities or experiences – it’s about showing the person behind those things.

Your essay should paint a picture of who you are, why nursing speaks to you, and how you’ll make a difference in people’s lives as a nurse.

In this guide, How to Write an Essay About Why I Want to Become A Nurse, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to write a stellar essay about why you want to become a nurse. We’ll cover what to include, how to start strong, common themes to explore, and tips to make your essay stand out.

So let’s dive in and get you on your way to nursing school!

Table of Contents

Why I Want to Become a Nurse: Crafting a Compelling Nurse Essay

What should i include in my nurse essay.

When you sit down to write your essay on why you want to become a nurse, there are a few key elements you’ll want to include. These will help create a well-rounded picture of you as a future nurse.

Key Elements of a Strong Personal Statement

• Your motivation: Explain what drew you to nursing in the first place. Was it a personal experience? A role model? A desire to help others?
• Your qualities: Highlight the traits you have that would make you a great nurse, like compassion, attention to detail, or ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Your experiences: Share any relevant experiences you’ve had, whether it’s volunteering at a hospital, caring for a family member, or shadowing a nurse.
• Your goals: Talk about what you hope to achieve as a nurse and how this aligns with your personal values.
• Your understanding of nursing: Show that you know what nursing really involves – both the rewards and the challenges.

How to Articulate Your Desire to Help People

One of the most common reasons people choose nursing is the desire to help others. But how do you express this in a way that doesn’t sound cliché? Here are some tips:

• Be specific: Instead of just saying “I want to help people,” give examples of how you want to help. For instance, “I want to provide comfort to patients during their most vulnerable moments.”
• Share a story: If you have a personal experience that sparked your desire to help, tell that story. It could be about a time you or a loved one received great care from a nurse.
• Connect it to nursing: Explain why you believe nursing is the best way for you to help others. What about nursing specifically appeals to you?

What Makes Nursing a Unique Profession?

In your essay, it’s good to show that you understand what sets nursing apart from other healthcare professions. Here are some unique aspects of nursing you might want to touch on:

• Patient advocacy: Nurses often act as a voice for their patients, ensuring their needs are met.
• Holistic care: Nurses care for the whole person – not just their physical health, but their emotional and mental well-being too.
• Constant learning: The medical field is always changing, and nurses are lifelong learners.
• Versatility: Nursing offers many different specialties and work environments.
• Human connection: Nurses often form meaningful bonds with patients and their families.

How Do I Start My Essay on Wanting to Be a Nurse?

The beginning of your essay is crucial – it’s your chance to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading. Here are some tips for crafting a strong introduction:

Crafting an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

• Start with a hook: This could be a surprising fact about nursing, a powerful quote, or a thought-provoking question.
• Share a vivid anecdote: Begin with a short story that illustrates why you’re drawn to nursing.
• State your purpose clearly: Within the first paragraph, make it clear that you’re explaining why you want to become a nurse.
• Keep it concise: Your introduction should be engaging but brief – aim for 3-5 sentences.

Here’s an example of how you might start your essay:

“The steady beep of the heart monitor, the hushed voices of concerned family members, and the gentle reassurance of a nurse – these are the sounds that first drew me to the world of nursing. It was during my grandmother’s hospital stay that I witnessed firsthand the profound impact a compassionate nurse can have on a patient’s journey. From that moment, I knew I wanted to become a nurse and make that same difference in people’s lives.”

Sharing Your Personal Journey in Nursing

Your essay should tell the story of how you came to choose nursing as your career path. This personal journey is unique to you and is what will make your essay stand out. Here are some questions to help you reflect on your journey:

• When did you first become interested in nursing?
• Was there a specific moment or experience that confirmed this was the right path for you?
• How have your experiences so far (volunteering, coursework, etc.) shaped your understanding of nursing?
• What challenges have you faced on your path to nursing, and how have you overcome them?

What Motivated You to Choose Nursing?

There are many reasons why someone might choose nursing as a career. Reflecting on your personal motivations will help make your essay more authentic and compelling. Some common motivations include:

• A desire to make a difference in people’s lives
• Interest in healthcare and medicine
• Personal experience with illness or caregiving
• Admiration for a nurse role model
• The variety and opportunities within the nursing field
• Job security and career growth potential

Remember, it’s okay to have multiple motivations. The key is to explain them honestly and show how they’ve shaped your decision to become a nurse.

What Are Common Themes in a ‘Become a Nurse’ Essay?

While every nursing essay is unique, there are some common themes that often come up. Including these in your essay can help demonstrate your understanding of what it means to be a nurse.

The Importance of Making a Difference in People’s Lives

One of the most rewarding aspects of nursing is the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives. In your essay, you might want to:

• Describe a time when you saw a nurse make a difference
• Explain how you hope to impact patients’ lives as a nurse
• Discuss why making a difference is important to you personally

For example: “I’ve always been drawn to professions where I can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. In nursing, I see the opportunity to do this every day – whether it’s easing a patient’s pain, providing emotional support to a worried family member, or educating someone about managing their health condition.”

Discussing Goals in Nursing as Part of Your Career Path

Your essay should not only explain why you want to become a nurse but also touch on your future goals in the nursing field. This shows that you’re thinking long-term and are committed to growing in your career. Some goals you might discuss:

• Specializing in a particular area of nursing (e.g., pediatrics, oncology, critical care)
• Pursuing advanced education to become a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist
• Taking on leadership roles in healthcare
• Contributing to nursing research or education

Here’s how you might incorporate this: “While my immediate goal is to become a registered nurse and gain experience in a hospital setting, I’m excited about the many paths a nursing career can take. In the future, I hope to specialize in pediatric nursing and perhaps even pursue a role as a pediatric nurse practitioner. I’m drawn to the idea of building long-term relationships with young patients and their families, supporting them through various stages of growth and health.”

Incorporating Experiences that Influenced Your Decision

Personal experiences often play a big role in the decision to become a nurse. Sharing these experiences in your essay can make it more personal and impactful. These might include:

• Volunteering at a hospital or clinic
• Caring for a sick family member
• Overcoming a personal health challenge
• Shadowing a nurse or other healthcare professional
• Participating in a health-related school program

When sharing these experiences, focus on what you learned and how they confirmed or shaped your desire to become a nurse. For instance: “Last summer, I volunteered at a local community health clinic. I was amazed by the nurses’ ability to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing not just medical care but also education and emotional support. This experience reinforced my desire to become a nurse and showed me the importance of cultural competence in healthcare.”

How Can I Make My Nursing Scholarship Essay Stand Out?

With so many passionate aspiring nurses applying to nursing schools, it’s important to make your essay stand out. Here are some strategies to help your nursing scholarship essay shine:

Highlighting Unique Personal Experiences

While many applicants may have similar motivations for wanting to become a nurse, your personal experiences are unique to you. Use these to your advantage:

• Share specific stories that shaped your decision to pursue nursing
• Describe how you’ve already started preparing for a nursing career
• Discuss any challenges you’ve overcome on your path to nursing

For example: “Growing up in a rural community with limited access to healthcare, I saw firsthand the critical role nurses play in maintaining community health. From organizing vaccination drives to providing home care for elderly residents, the nurses in my town were true healthcare heroes. Their dedication inspired me to want to bring that same level of care to underserved communities as a nurse.”

Connecting Your Goals to the Nursing Profession

Show how your personal goals align with the nursing profession:

• Explain how nursing will help you fulfill your passion for helping others
• Discuss how your strengths and interests fit with specific areas of nursing
• Share your vision for how you want to contribute to the nursing field

Here’s an example: “My goal is not just to treat illnesses, but to promote overall well-being. I’m particularly interested in preventive care and patient education. As a nurse, I hope to empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their health, potentially preventing serious illnesses before they occur.”

What to Avoid in Your Nursing Scholarship Essay

While it’s important to know what to include in your essay, it’s equally crucial to know what to avoid:

• Clichés: Avoid overused phrases like “I’ve always wanted to be a nurse” without providing specific reasons or experiences.
• Negativity: Don’t speak negatively about other healthcare professions or complain about past experiences.
• Exaggeration: Be honest about your experiences and motivations. Admissions committees can often spot insincerity.
• Too much focus on money or job security: While these are valid considerations, your essay should primarily focus on your passion for nursing and desire to help others.
• Irrelevant information: Stay focused on experiences and qualities relevant to nursing.
• Errors: Proofread carefully to avoid spelling and grammar mistakes.

Why Is It Important to Share Your Passion for Nursing?

Your passion for nursing is what will drive you through the challenges of nursing school and a nursing career. It’s important to convey this passion in your essay because it shows your commitment to the field.

Demonstrating Your Commitment to the Nursing Field

Show your dedication to nursing by:

• Discussing any steps you’ve already taken towards becoming a nurse (volunteering, relevant coursework, certifications)
• Explaining how you plan to continue growing and learning in the nursing field
• Sharing your long-term vision for your nursing career

For instance: “My commitment to nursing goes beyond just wanting a stable career. I’ve already started preparing by volunteering at a local hospital, taking advanced biology courses, and getting certified in CPR. I’m excited to continue this journey in nursing school and beyond, always striving to provide the best possible care for my future patients.”

How Passion Influences Your Nursing Career

Explain how your passion will make you a better nurse:

• Discuss how your enthusiasm will help you overcome challenges
• Explain how your passion will benefit your future patients
• Share how your dedication will contribute to the nursing profession as a whole

Here’s an example: “My passion for nursing isn’t just about personal fulfillment – it’s about the impact I can have on my patients. I believe that when you’re truly passionate about what you do, it shows in the quality of care you provide. My enthusiasm for nursing will drive me to stay updated on the latest medical advancements, to always go the extra mile for my patients, and to be a positive force in the healthcare team.”

Stories of Impact: Making a Difference in Healthcare

Share stories that illustrate the impact nurses can have:

• Describe a time when you witnessed a nurse making a significant difference
• Discuss a healthcare issue you’re passionate about addressing as a nurse
• Share your vision of how you hope to impact healthcare in your career

For example: “During my hospital volunteer experience, I saw a nurse sit with a scared child before surgery, explaining the procedure with patience and kindness. The child’s fear visibly melted away. This moment crystallized for me the profound impact nurses can have, not just on physical health, but on emotional well-being too. As a nurse, I hope to provide this level of holistic care, making a difference in my patients’ lives one interaction at a time.”

What Are the Next Steps After Writing My Nurse Essay?

Once you’ve written your essay, your work isn’t quite done. Here are the next steps to ensure your essay is the best it can be:

Editing and Revising for Clarity and Impact

• Take a break: Step away from your essay for a day or two, then come back to it with fresh eyes.
• Read it out loud: This can help you catch awkward phrasing or sentences that don’t flow well.
• Check for clarity: Make sure each paragraph has a clear main point that supports your overall message.
• Eliminate redundancy: Look for places where you’ve repeated ideas and consolidate them.
• Strengthen your language: Replace vague words with more specific, impactful ones.
• Proofread: Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Seeking Feedback from Nursing Professionals

Getting input from people in the nursing field can be incredibly valuable:

• Ask a nurse you know to read your essay. They can provide insight into whether you’ve accurately represented the profession.
• If possible, have a nursing school admissions counselor review your essay. They can give you an idea of how it compares to other essays they’ve seen.
• Consider having an English teacher or writing tutor look over your essay for structure and clarity.

Remember, while feedback is helpful, make sure the essay still sounds like you. Don’t let others’ suggestions overshadow your unique voice.

Preparing for the Nursing School Application Process

Your essay is just one part of your nursing school application. Here are some other steps to prepare:

• Research schools: Look into the specific requirements for each nursing program you’re interested in.
• Gather transcripts: Request official transcripts from all previous schools.
• Secure recommendations: Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or volunteer supervisors who can speak to your potential as a nurse.
• Prepare for interviews: Many nursing programs require interviews. Practice answering common questions about why you want to be a nurse.
• Plan for prerequisites: Make sure you’ve completed or are enrolled in all required prerequisite courses.
• Consider finances: Look into scholarship opportunities and financial aid options.

Remember, the application process can be lengthy, so start early and stay organized. Your thoughtful, well-crafted essay on why you want to become a nurse will be a strong foundation for your application.

Related Article

Essay On Why I Want To Become A Nurse

FAQs on How to Write an Essay About Why I Want to Become A Nurse

How do you write an introduction for a nursing essay.

To write a strong introduction for your nursing essay, start with an attention-grabbing opening like a relevant quote, a surprising statistic about nursing, or a brief personal anecdote. Then, clearly state your purpose – explain that you’re writing about why you want to become a nurse. Briefly outline the main points you’ll cover in your essay. Keep it concise, aiming for 3-5 sentences that set the tone for the rest of your essay.

Why do you dream of becoming a nurse?

I dream of becoming a nurse because I want to make a tangible difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments. Nursing offers a unique opportunity to combine my passion for science and healthcare with my desire to provide compassionate care. I’m drawn to the challenges and rewards of the nursing profession, the opportunity for continuous learning, and the chance to be a crucial part of the healthcare team.

Why am I motivated to be a nurse?

I’m motivated to be a nurse for several reasons. Firstly, I have a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact on people’s lives. Secondly, I’m fascinated by the human body and medical science, and nursing allows me to apply this knowledge practically. Additionally, I value the versatility of the nursing profession – the various specialties and work environments offer opportunities for continual growth and learning. Lastly, my personal experiences with healthcare have shown me the crucial role nurses play, and I want to be part of that important work.

Why do I love to be a nurse?

 Nursing offers the opportunity to directly impact people’s lives in meaningful ways every day. I would love the chance to provide comfort and care to patients, to be an advocate for their needs, and to work as part of a healthcare team. The constant learning and growth in nursing is exciting to me, as is the ability to specialize in areas that particularly interest me. Most of all, I would love knowing that my work as a nurse would make a real difference in people’s lives.

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The Ultimate Nursing School Admission Essay Guide

Entering nursing school is a dream come true for many aspiring healthcare professionals. However, before you can don that crisp white uniform and stethoscope, you need to tackle the formidable challenge of crafting a nursing school admission essay. This essay plays a pivotal role in your application process, allowing you to stand out from the crowd and demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the nursing program of your choice.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the ins and outs of writing a compelling nursing school admission essay. Whether you’re a high school student considering a career in nursing or an aspiring nurse looking to advance your education, the tips and strategies outlined here will help you create an essay that leaves a lasting impression on admissions committees.(nursing school admission essay)

Understanding the Purpose of Your Nursing School Admission Essay

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of crafting a stellar admission essay, it’s essential to understand why it’s so crucial. Your nursing school admission essay serves several critical purposes:

1. Showcasing Your Passion

Admissions committees want to admit students who are genuinely passionate about nursing. Your essay is an opportunity to convey your dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to the field. It should highlight what drives you to become a nurse.(nursing school admission essay)

2. Demonstrating Your Qualifications

Your essay is a platform to discuss your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any prior healthcare experience. It’s a chance to connect your background with your desire to pursue nursing.

3. Revealing Your Personality

Admissions officers are interested in the person behind the application. Your essay should offer a glimpse into your personality, values, and the qualities that make you a unique candidate.(nursing school admission essay)

4. Effective Communication

Nurses must communicate effectively with patients, families, and colleagues. Your admission essay is a test of your written communication skills , providing a preview of your ability to convey information clearly and persuasively.

5. Convincing the Committee

Ultimately, your essay should convince the admissions committee that you are an ideal candidate for their nursing program. It’s your chance to shine and make a compelling case for your admission.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Nursing School Admission Essay

Now that you understand the significance of your admission essay, let’s break down the process of creating an impactful one:

1. Start Early

Procrastination is your enemy when it comes to writing a stellar admission essay. Begin the process well in advance to allow time for brainstorming, drafting, revising, and proofreading .

2. Research the Program

Before you start writing, research the nursing program thoroughly. Understand its mission, values, and what sets it apart from other programs. Tailor your essay to demonstrate how you align with the program’s goals.(nursing school admission essay)

3. Brainstorm Ideas

Consider what led you to pursue nursing. Reflect on your personal experiences, challenges you’ve overcome, and the moments that ignited your passion for healthcare . These personal stories can form the core of your essay.

4. Craft a Compelling Introduction

Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and provide a clear sense of purpose. You might start with a personal anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful quote that relates to nursing.

5. Highlight Your Qualifications

Discuss your academic achievements, relevant coursework , and any healthcare-related experiences. Be specific about how these experiences have prepared you for a nursing career.

6. Share Personal Experiences

Include anecdotes that illustrate your passion for nursing and your ability to connect with patients. Share moments when you demonstrated empathy, resilience, or leadership skills.(nursing school admission essay)

7. Express Your Motivation

Explain why you are passionate about nursing and how you envision your future in the field. Discuss your long-term goals and how the nursing program aligns with them.

8. Showcase Your Personality

Give the admissions committee a glimpse of your personality and values. Discuss your strengths and how they will contribute to your success as a nursing student .

9. Maintain a Positive Tone

Keep your essay positive and optimistic. Avoid dwelling on challenges or weaknesses unless you can demonstrate how you overcame them and grew as a result.(nursing school admission essay)

10. Edit and Proofread

Once you’ve written a draft, take the time to edit and proofread it carefully. Check for grammar and spelling errors, clarity, and consistency. Consider seeking feedback from teachers, peers, or professionals in the field.

11. Seek Professional Assistance

If you’re unsure about your writing skills or want to ensure your essay is of the highest quality, consider seeking professional writing services. These services can provide expert guidance and editing to make your essay shine.

Crafting a compelling nursing school admission essay is a vital step on your journey to becoming a nurse. It’s your chance to showcase your passion, qualifications, and personality to admissions committees. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can create an essay that not only impresses but also leaves a lasting impression.

Remember to start early, research your chosen program, and highlight your qualifications and motivations. Share personal experiences that demonstrate your commitment to nursing and showcase your unique personality. Keep your essay positive, and don’t forget to edit and proofread meticulously.

If you find yourself in need of expert assistance to ensure your nursing school admission essay stands out, consider seeking our professional writing services . Our team of experienced writers can help you craft an essay that maximizes your chances of gaining admission to your dream nursing program.(nursing school admission essay)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How do you start a nursing paragraph?

Starting a nursing paragraph effectively requires a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. This could be a statement, a question, or a brief summary of what the paragraph will discuss. For example, if you’re writing about your passion for nursing, you could start with a sentence like, “My unwavering passion for nursing began during my childhood.”

• What is the structure of a nursing essay?

A nursing essay typically follows a standard essay structure , which includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide an overview of the topic, the body paragraphs should present your arguments and evidence, and the conclusion should summarize your key points and leave a lasting impression.

• What are the qualities of a good nurse essay?

A good nurse essay should demonstrate the following qualities:

• Clear and concise writing that is easy to understand.
• Personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate your passion for nursing.
• Well-organized structure with a logical flow of ideas.
• Proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• A unique perspective or voice that sets it apart from other essays.
• What to include in a “why I want to be a nurse” essay?

In a “why I want to be a nurse” essay, you should include the following:

• Personal experiences that inspired your interest in nursing.
• Specific qualities or skills you possess that make you a suitable candidate.
• Your long-term goals and how nursing aligns with them.(nursing school admission essay)
• Your passion for helping others and making a positive impact on healthcare.
• Any relevant healthcare or volunteer experiences that reinforce your commitment to nursing.

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How to Write an Admission Essay for Nursing School

The nursing school admission process is rigorous. One of the critical requirements for new applicants is an application essay, and writing a compelling nursing essay will give you a major head start over other nursing school candidates.

Once you have figured out why you want to be a nurse, all your memories, accomplishments, ambitions, and goals will align. Therefore, writing an essay on why you are interested in becoming a nurse and selecting a specific nursing college or university allows the admissions team to understand why they should choose you over other candidates.

A well-written, organized, and polished nursing school essay automatically increases your chances of acceptance. With thousands of applications destined for assessment and judgment by the admissions committee, you would want to make your application essay for the nursing school admission stand out.

We have admission essay-writing experts and consultants who, luckily, have compiled this intensive guide to help you write an intentional, focused, and perfect essay for nursing school.

Note: If you are in a hurry or you need direct assistance in writing your nursing college essay, please place an order and let our expert essay writers craft for you an original, engaging, and compelling nursing essay!

What Is a Nursing School Essay?

A nursing school essay is a written piece that demonstrates your interest in a nursing career and elaborates why you are the perfect fit for a specific nursing program.

Most nursing schools (colleges and universities) require aspiring students to write an application essay for nursing school admission. It is a personal essay submitted as part of the application process, which the admission officers review to determine if you can be accepted.

A good nursing school essay shows your interest in the nursing field, your chosen career path, why you want to pursue your nursing education through a specific nursing school program, and why you believe you should be accepted into the institution. It has to show why the entire process is crucial to you and why you are a worthy candidate to select for the nursing school program.

Sometimes, it is the only hope one has left, especially if the competition is stiff. Imagine a situation where the application materials such as grades, resumes, test scores, or recommendation letters are all qualified; a nursing school essay will be the only means to select the best out of the rest fairly.

Writing a perfect nursing essay will demonstrate that you are ready to go down the thorny path of training to become a nurse. Nursing education entails research and writing assignments, and a well-written essay demonstrates your readiness.

Helpful Information to Include in a Nursing Admission Essay

You are probably wondering what goes into an application essay for nursing school admission. Well, your nursing essay will answer an essay prompt from the university. Most colleges will specify the essay questions for college of nursing applicants for various levels of study (MSN, DNP, BSN, Ph.D., or ADN).

Below are some examples of what might be expected:

• Your goals and ambitions for a successful nursing career
• How do you plan to achieve your academic goals
• The specific reasons why you want to join the nursing field
• Reasons you are selecting the particular nursing school or program
• Personal accomplishments that set you apart as the right candidate
• Experiences and encounters that make you love nursing career
• Plans for the future once accepted
• Experience with medical training or patient care
• Character traits aligned to being a nurse
• How you are prepared to become a successful nurse
• Academic, personal, and career interests
• Any other reasons to convince the admissions committee to approve your admission

In some quarters, a nursing school application essay might be a statement of purpose, personal essay, or letter of intent. It is a chance to plead with the admissions committee to accept you into your dream nursing college or program. Having looked at what goes into it, it is also essential to cover the steps to writing a perfect and comprehensive admission essay for nursing school.

Structure of a Nursing School Essay

A nursing essay for admission into a nursing program or school follows the typical format of an academic essay. It is organized into three main sections: introduction, body, and conclusion.

Introduction

• This is the opening paragraph that has to impress your readers (admissions officers)
• It can make or break your admission essay or personal statement
• It should be direct to the point
• It is a roadmap that helps the readers to know what to expect as your story grows.
• Open it using an enticing quote, event, anecdote, or statement
• You are allowed to use personal pronouns such as I in the introduction and the rest of the essay
• It has 2- 3 and sometimes five paragraphs
• Elaborates the introduction
• Every paragraph has a unique opening sentence that is a mini-thesis statement.
• Bears the best ideas yielded in your brainstorming session
• It can be as long as your word limit allows but contributes to at least 70-80% of the word count
• Focuses on quality over quantity
• Has one idea or experience per paragraph
• You should mention the skills you intend to develop and how they will help you become a successful nurse
• Connect the skills and experiences to the program and your future career
• Summarize and emphasize the main ideas
• It should be captivating and insightful
• Conveys a sense of closure to the readers
• Invites the readers to reflect on the ideas in your essay
• Creates one last lasting impression on the readers

Outline for a Nursing School Essay

A good nursing school essay outline should give you directions that help you visualize what the essay will look like in its final draft.

If you are writing a nursing essay, having the outline is the first thing you do after brainstorming (as shown in the steps).

It helps you to figure out how to arrange the ideas and points in the essay for a better flow. You can develop each section independently, regardless of the sequence, and still have a quality essay. 

In most cases, the outline is meant for personal consumption, especially when writing a personal statement. However, if you are writing a nursing essay on a given nursing topic , you might be required to write an outline, annotated bibliography , and the nursing essay , and each will be graded separately.

Given the structure, you can outline your nursing school essay as follows:

    Introduction paragraph

• Hook (quote, statement, or anecdote)
• Background information
• Thesis statement
• Transition sentence

    Body paragraph 1

• Topic sentence
• Evidence, data, and facts
• Transition to the second body paragraph

    Body paragraph 2

• Transition to the third body paragraph

    Body paragraph 3

• Transition to the conclusion

    Conclusion

• Summary of the main ideas
• Restate the thesis statement
• Last impression (call to action to the admissions committee)

Steps for Writing a Nursing School Essay

Optimizing your application essay increases your chance of getting accepted into the nursing program or nursing school. The essay should elaborate on your person (who you are as an individual) by providing a comprehensive perspective of your career ambitions, goals, and plans related to your passion for nursing. You should elaborate to the admissions committee why you are a good fit for their nursing program. Students at the ADN, BSN, ABSN (Accelerated BSN), MSN, DNP, or Ph.D. might be required to write an admission or personal essay, and here are the five steps to make it successful.

• Read the prompt
• Brainstorm for ideas
• Plan your essay
• Write the first draft
• Edit and Polish your Essay

Let's explore all these steps before delving into the tips to help you write the essay better.

Read the Prompt

If you are considering applying to a specific nursing school, you need to begin by researching the application process to know when you will be expected to submit your application essay.

In most cases, the nursing schools have essay prompts and instructions for the potential nursing candidates published on their websites. The prompts might vary depending on the programs you are interested in pursuing and the institutional preferences. Therefore, it is vital to begin by locating the nursing school essay guidelines. A quick search online can help, or you will also find it enclosed in the email sent to you by the school's admissions committee.

Read the instructions thoroughly with a specific focus on the essay question, word limit, and topics you must cover. If you apply to many nursing schools, you should locate and read each prompt before moving to the next steps.

Reading and understanding the instructions is the first step in writing an excellent application essay. Besides, it helps you to customize the essay to the requirements and not the other way around.

Brainstorm for Ideas

Now that you know what is expected of you, you need to decide what to include in your nursing essay to make it stand out. For this, get into an idea-generation marathon where you brainstorm ideas based on the prompt and the requirements.

Give every idea a thoughtful consideration and make shorthand notes so that you have all the ideas condensed. Consider your ambitions, accomplishments, drive, passion, preferences, strengths, weaknesses, character traits, and other attributes that might relate to your urge to pursue nursing as a career.

Also, research the nursing program and relate it to your personal ambitions and desires. Such information will help you spot the specific things you like about it. You can then tailor your experiences and encounters to the requirements. Look at the program's website and examine 2-3 aspects that stand out. This will help you focus on what you have that makes you the best pick for the program. You can also reference experiences, events, or traits related to the program.

Consider the environment and people around you and relate them to your desire to become a nurse.

Experiences, encounters, and events can inspire ideas to pen into your nursing school essay.

You can also research some well-written examples of nursing personal statements and essays to get inspired when brainstorming ideas for yours. Besides, you can also ask people in your network, such as family, friends, or peers, for ideas that can stand out and then choose the best.

To get the most robust ideas, rate them depending on how best they answer the prompt; this is the fodder for the entire application essay. Choose 3-5 strongest points and make them the central focus of your essay.

Plan your Essay

As a nurse, planning is everything, even when it comes to clinical decision-making. And because you are destined for this noble career, planning your personal essay won't hurt. Instead, it helps you know what to put and where to engage the admission officers from the beginning to the end of your nursing school essay.

With the ideas in mind, create a rough outline and adjust it until you are fully satisfied that your thoughts, facts, and opinions are well-organized. The outline will help you to structure your essay, avoid derailing it, and write a draft that bears all the quality ideas.

A good step is to organize the essay into paragraphs that align with the word count (often given as the minimum or maximum number of words, exact number of words, or characters).

Include an introduction to give your readers a clear understanding of the focus of your essay. Yes, a good nursing essay has a thesis statement that shows your central claim or the main idea you are focusing on the entire essay.

You should include the body paragraphs, each with a topic sentence supporting the thesis and a series of supporting facts such as examples, evidence, and illustration.

Finally, include a conclusion as the last paragraph that reverberates the thesis, summarizes the essay, and has a call to action to the admissions committee.

Write the First Draft

After the outline, you must begin writing your essay sentence by sentence and paragraph after paragraph. Whatever approach you take, ensure that every detail covered in the outline ends up in your essay as long as it is valid.

Write the introduction paragraph by giving a hook or attention grabber. You can begin with a quote from a famous nurse or a scholarly nursing article. You can also state facts or give statistics if they matter to your application. You should also elaborate on your selected topic, especially if the prompt provides options. End your first paragraph with a thesis statement that describes the focus of your nursing school essay. The introduction should account for 10-15% of the word count.

Each body paragraph has a unique, unmistakable, and concise topic sentence followed by supporting details and a concluding sentence that transitions to the next paragraph. Ensure that you have at least two body paragraphs considering that you can write either a three-paragraph or a five-paragraph nursing essay. Collectively, the body section should be 70-80% of the essay's word count. The body paragraphs should outline your encounters, experiences, and events and how they relate to the specific nursing program.

The final part is the conclusion, where you summarize the main ideas in the essay. for this, avoid the clich� conclusion starters such as "in conclusion," "to sum up," or "in summary." Instead, use conclusion opening sentences that demonstrate to your reader that the essay has ended � it gives the best closure and helps close the information loop in your essay. Rephrase your thesis and summarize the main ideas before appealing to the admissions committee to accept you into their nursing program. It should be 10-15% of the word count, like the introduction paragraph.

Edit and Polish the Essay

Now that you are done with your first draft, it is only the beginning, and you are far from being done. You need to take a break to cool down your frustrations, anxiety, and adrenaline developed when writing. It is a chance to establish an objective mind to look at things from a broader perspective when you settle for editing and proofreading.

If you are not good with editing and proofreading, you can hire a professional proofreading and editing expert to look at your essay and suggest changes to make. You can also use friends and family as a second and third eye to see what you cannot see. Using their feedback will help you optimize the essay for better results. You can incorporate the suggestions and proceed to editing and proofreading.

As for editing and proofreading, you can take advantage of tools such as Grammarly, Ginger, Hemingway Editor, and other editing and proofreading tools available by students and professionals. Revise the essay until it meets the requirements and addresses the prompt. If anything, do not be afraid to do away with an entire paragraph or a few paragraphs that don't make sense.

It is better to start over again than submit a subpar nursing school essay that will be a laughingstock of the admissions committee. The only way to entertain the admissions officers is to write an outstanding nursing school essay that will automatically dial you into the nursing program of your choice. Best of luck!

Example of Nursing School Essay Prompts

• Discuss your interest and understanding of the clinical nurse leader role. What's your story? And what experiences have contributed to your interest?
• The DNP program aims to prepare nurse leaders at the highest level of nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and translate research into practice. Describe experiences that exhibit your formal leadership role or informal leadership skills.
• How will the program help you achieve your academic and career goals?
• What experiences have influenced your interest in pursuing a clinical specialty you have chosen?
• The DNP program aims to prepare nurse leaders at the highest level of nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and translate research into practice. Describe experiences that exhibit your leadership skills.
• Why have you chosen to pursue a nursing research doctorate?
• How does becoming a nurse fulfill your ambitions?
• What does becoming a nurse mean to you?
• What drives you to become a nurse?
• Why do you want to become a nurse?
• What is your nursing philosophy?
• What was your reason for choosing nursing as a career? Do you have any additional information that you would like the admissions committee to know about you that has not been previously considered in the application?
• What are your professional goals? How will this accelerated nursing program help you materialize those goals?
• Discuss a specific leadership position (e.g., manager, director, associate dean) you wish to attain within three to five years after completing the DNP program.

Note: Some of these prompts have been rephrased from the Rush University Website . They keep changing depending on the preferences of the admissions committee. Inquire with your university or college of nursing to get specific directions on the most current prompts and instructions.

Related Reading: Ideas for a nursing capstone project.

Tips for Writing an Effective Nursing School Admission Essay

When grades, test scores, and other material entries don't count , a nursing school essay, referred to as a personal statement, suffices. In this case, a great nursing school can only be your hope for getting into nursing school. If you want to get ahead of the competition, these proven tips will significantly help you.

1. Plan Well

To pen an excellent nursing school essay that gets you accepted, you need to plan the essay.

Read the instructions, brainstorm as you take notes, research widely, and create an outline.

And even when done, the purpose is to have a reverse outline to help you score the essay against the requirements. Planning helps you to know what attention-grabbing statement to begin the essay with, the sequence of the body paragraph ideas for a logical flow, and what specifics to include in the conclusion.

Having an outline will help you save time when writing the first draft and help you to stay focused when writing.

2. Show, Don't Tell!

All effective nursing school essays express your personality, experiences, and encounters while convincing the admissions officers that you are the best fit for the program.

You should not focus on telling your story alone. Instead, show how your account relates to the prompt.

Discuss experiences, encounters, and events but show how they have impacted your choice of the program and desire to become a nurse.

If you are applying to a specific program, enlighten your readers on why you are specifically interested in the program and what that means.

It could be the hybrid learning model that entails both online and classroom learning or the history or reputation the school has, parental preferences (if they were a graduate), mentor recommendation, etc.

3. Choose Information Wisely

Ensure that every idea or information in your essay is unique, authentic, and original. Don't just write fictitiously.

If you have no past experiences directly related to nursing, you can introduce them and twist them to fit the context.

Impress the admissions committee with your wits, not just a summary of what others have written online.

Standing out in your presentation of facts will always carry the day. Genuinely share your story about what made you want to become a nurse.

4. Avoid Excuses

Even if you don't have appealing past encounters with medicine, hospitals, or anything related to nursing, tell your story as it is.

Do not excuse yourself for telling the truth. After all, you are on your journey to becoming a nurse; all you are seeking is training to develop the knowledge and skills.

If you have cared for your family members at home, babysat your siblings, or have compassion for the suffering, these are the most authentic stories you have, and they can spell meaning on your ambition. Therefore, prove your strong candidature by stating things as they are without clutching at things that do not matter.

5. Let it Flow!

Instead of forcing things such as humor or stories, write plainly about your experiences, encounters, and past events that made you want to become a nurse.

Most "why I want to be a nurse" essays don't have to have any humor. If it clicks well and is good, if it doesn't, don't force it.

As well, avoid exaggerating things when writing your nursing school essay. You should focus on making it as interesting, engaging, and convincing as can be but be truthful.

Avoid mixing up stories. A good way is to focus each paragraph on the main point that relates to your thesis.

6. Show you care about People and Yourself

Nursing is a noble career that entails caring for oneself as you care for others. Your full-time attention and job will be to care for people to help them achieve better health outcomes.

You must show empathy, selflessness, and determination to be a nurse. You can bring examples of when you took care of others and yourself.

Let the committee know that even when training as a nurse, you understand self-care as much as you understand caring for others.

7. Bring in Current Issues

If there is a chance that you can introduce nursing concepts or ideas from current events, it will beef up your nursing school essays.

Get facts from well-established nursing organization websites such as the American Nurses Association, National League of Nursing, Emergency Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau, or National Black Nurses Association, etc.

Intrigue your readers by understanding the challenges and opportunities in the nursing field.

You can relate your application to nursing shortages, medical errors, nursing burnout, continuing education, evidence-based practice, etc.

8. Briefly Explain your Qualifications

Since you have already provided material such as transcripts, resumes, and test scores, it is imperative to briefly expound on the qualifications without going into details. Tell them about your experiences, your education, and how you have set yourself up for success in nursing school . For instance, elaborate on how volunteering and internships helped you develop a sense of becoming a nurse or how they developed skills you will apply in nursing school.

9. Share your plans

Everybody has plans. You have short, medium, and long-term goals as you prepare to enter nursing school. You should include them in your essay and demonstrate how the program or school will help you achieve them. Admission officers are always wowed by hearing about goals, especially if they relate to their schools or programs. As you do this, be very specific with the goals and how you intend to achieve them.

All set, but before You Go �

As you contemplate entering nursing school, you must understand that it will never be a walk in the park. There is so much to learn within the specified time frame, and you must show your preparedness. A nursing school personal essay is one of the ways to do so.

Related Article:

• Writing a nursing philosophy ( a student's guide)
• Writing a nursing student resume (a guide)

Lucky for you, our nursing admission essay writers have shared insights, tips, and steps that can help you write an exceptional application essay for any nursing school or program. If you follow them, you will write a seamless admission essay that increases your chances of getting into the nursing school of your dreams.

We wish you luck in your endeavors and promise that were available in case you need a well-written, organized, and plagiarism-free admission essay tailored to your experiences and the specific nursing school or program requirements.

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Tips on Writing a Nursing School Admission Essay

When it comes to getting into nursing school, a good admission essay is at the center of the decision. An admission essay can help or hurt students who wish to get into nursing school. The essay is not only about the content but about other important components that let the admission board know that students are serious about entering their programs and that they will be valuable assets as well. It is important for potential nursing students to know that there are important elements needed to write the perfect admission essay to get into nursing school.

How to Write a Nursing School Application Essay

The application essay is a requirement that applicants must complete as a part of the admission packet. Some call this essay the personal essay, letter of intent, or statements of purpose. In essence, the application essay is the applicant’s chance to plea with the admission board for admission into their nursing program. Applicants explain their reasons for becoming nurses and explain why this program can help them achieve their dreams.

It is important to know what elements are needed to write a successful application essay. One of the most important things that applicants need to remember is to plan the essay carefully. Making an outline of important items to include is very important to the success of the essay. It is important to adhere to the length of the essay so that the board does not throw it out. If the application says 500 to 1000 words, it means just that and nothing more or less. The applicant should include information about accomplishments in the applicant’s life and the hopeful accomplishments for the future.

Applicants should only include a short personal statement about them and reserve the majority of the essay for information about experiences that have shaped them. They should use other parts of the application to cover information that does not make the applicant stand out from other applicants. Remember, admission officers read numerous essays so it is important to stand out from other applicants.

Provide a structurally sound application. Make sure that the application essay has the proper spelling, format, and grammatical structure before turning in the finished product. An essay with errors will make the officers believe that the applicant may not be a desirable nurse. Keep the paragraphs short so that they are easy to read for the officers.

What to Include in a Nursing School Essay

A nursing school applicant should include the following in the nursing school essay:

• Things that interest the applicant about the nursing industry
• Reasons for choosing the specific nursing program
• A clear view of the future vision of the applicant
• Previous preparation to become a successful nurse
• Superior personal accomplishments and standouts (test scores, transcripts, etc.)
• Experience with medical training and patient care (volunteer opportunities, internships, etc.)
• Academic interests
• Character traits that focus on desires and strengths to become a nurse
• Reasons the officers should accept the application

Tips on How to Write a Nursing School Application Essay

The purpose of the admissions essay is to prove that the application is a worthy selection for the nursing program. Applicants are only allowed a few words to tell their personal stories, but their rejection or acceptance depends on it. The following tips will help applicants write a successful nursing school application essay:

• Choose information wisely. Make sure that the information included paints a vivid picture of past and future accomplishments so that the admissions officers are impressed.
• Select a strong essay topic. Applicants want to be remembered for their essay well after the officers have read it. Make sure to stay on the topic and provide strong supporting information within the paragraphs.
• Provide a glimpse of the applicant’s life. The admissions officers do not want to be bored with the mundane details but rather the important things that make the applicant unique.
• Intrigue the reading in the first few lines. Capture the essay reader within the first few lines so that they want to continue reading.
• Make sure the essay has structure. The essay should include an introduction, body, and conclusion that is easy to read and understand. Make sure to add a memorable statement to the conclusion so that the essay readers do not forget the essay.

The application essay is a very important aspect of the nursing school application process. It can make or break the chance that an applicant gets into nursing school. The applicant should plan accordingly before writing the essay and make sure that it is rich with intriguing information. It is important to make sure that the essay is error free. This is the only chance that an applicant has to impress the admission board.

Thinking about going to Nursing School?

Are you contemplating going to nursing school, or are you actually in nursing school right now? Nursing school can be challenging, especially if you do not know what to expect. Here is a great guide by S. L. Page BSN, RN called “ How to Pass Nursing School “. This book gives you detailed information about how to pass nursing school from beginning to end. S.L. Page, the creator of this website, complied all the information students what to know about nursing school into one easy to read guide. She gives in depth information on how to succeed in nursing school.

S.L. Page graduated from nursing school with honors and passed the NCLEX-RN on her first try. In this ebook, she reveals the strategies she used to help her succeed.

Here is what the book looks like:

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