Nikita Pete-Making A Difference In Nursing by Jamiyah

Nikita Pete-Making A Difference In Nursing by Jamiyah - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

One mentor who has had a profound impact on my educational journey is Dr. Nikita Pete, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) who has become an inspiration both personally and professionally. Her unwavering dedication to nursing, teaching, and community service has shaped the way I view my future career and the path I’m taking to get there.

Dr. Pete has been a mentor to me in more ways than one. She not only serves as a professor at the University of South Carolina-Columbia, where she educates future nurses, but she also operates her own home health business, providing personalized care to those in need. Her ability to juggle these roles while giving back to her community and serving at her local church demonstrates an incredible work ethic and commitment to uplifting others. Her leadership style is grounded in the belief that healthcare is about more than just clinical expertise—it’s about serving with compassion, empathy, and integrity.

When I faced the setback of being dismissed from nursing school due to a small grade shortfall, Dr. Pete’s guidance became invaluable. She encouraged me to keep pushing forward and reminded me that setbacks do not define my worth or my future. She taught me that the key to success is not avoiding failure, but rather how you choose to respond to it. Her advice to perfect my clinical judgment, manage my time efficiently, and strengthen my foundational knowledge in nursing has been a cornerstone of my academic recovery and growth.

Her mentorship has helped me realize the importance of building a strong professional network and developing the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of a demanding career. She has shown me that nursing is more than a job—it’s a calling, a form of ministry that requires dedication, heart, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on others’ lives. Dr. Pete’s influence has instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and the motivation to continue my educational journey despite obstacles.

In addition to her professional guidance, Dr. Pete’s personal example has inspired me to embrace a balanced approach to life. She has taught me that it’s important to remain grounded in my values, serve my community, and use my voice to advocate for others, all while continuing to pursue my dreams with determination and resilience.

Dr. Pete’s mentorship has not only impacted my educational journey but has also shaped my vision for the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Through her example, I’ve learned that true leadership in nursing is about empowering others, providing compassionate care, and never losing sight of the bigger picture.