who will graduate from the School of Nursing this August. She is enrolled in the adult nurse practitioner program, with a focus area in correctional health.

Why correctional health?

With that focus, I can get a job in a primary care setting as well as in a prison. And surprisingly, I want to work in a prison. Seeing a nurse practitioner in prison will be the first time some of the inmates have ever received health care, and being a part of that is really exciting to me.

Why Vanderbilt?

I first came to Vanderbilt after I finished my undergraduate degree at Tennessee State University. I completed the first year of the master's of theological studies program with a focus in medical ethics. Something just wasn't there, so I stayed out a year to raise my son. In August 2000, I entered the nursing program. It was a big change going from full-time mom to full-time student.

What book are you currently reading?

Finding time to read outside of nursing is rare. However, my last book was Cheaters by Eric Jerome Dickey.

Do you have any hobbies?

Doing things with my son that make him happy, including playing games on the computer, playing basketball or football, going to Chuck E. Cheese or just rolling around in the grass.

Have you had your 15 minutes of fame?

I was chosen to represent Vanderbilt at the annual Tennessee Nurses Association Day on Capitol Hill. I had the opportunity to address a number of members of the legislature about issues of importance to nursing students as my classmates and my dad cheered me on.

Favorite Nashville restaurant?

Pancake Pantry. Every chance my friends and I get to slip away from school, we head there.

What tape or CD is currently in your car's player?

Thomas the Tank Engine. It's my son's. He loves Thomas.

Of whom does your family consist?

My son Clarkston ­ he's named for my father, Clark ­ and me.

Most challenging thing about being a nursing
student?

Prioritizing my time. It has been difficult to learn to balance between first God and then my family and schoolwork. I constantly tell myself the program is only two years and so very worth it.

Most rewarding things about being a nursing
student?

Having the feeling that I've adequately cared for a patient. That I've made a difference for that patient, that I didn't just treat the illness, but that I approached the whole person.

Best thing about the School of Nursing?

We have the best faculty and staff, the best guests speakers. We are receiving the best preparation for the medical field. Students' opinions are respected, and we are trusted. We're considered adults. It is definitely one of the best programs in the state.

-- Whitney Weeks

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