Steven Mora-Monge has spent more than two decades working at Carle Foundation Hospital (CFH) in roles including food service and pharmacy - experiences that inspired him to pursue a nursing degree after witnessing the vital impact nurses have on patient care and team collaboration. Motivated by his long-standing interest in patient care, Steven is excited to return to the classroom and prepare for a nursing career grounded in compassion, trust and meaningful human connection.
Q: How did your experience working in the hospital shape your interest in nursing?
A: Working at Carle Health in different roles has strongly impacted my decision to pursue a nursing degree. I have learned the critical role of nurses in a hospital, and as a food service worker, I had the opportunity to witness the vital tasks performed, with passion, by nurses. During my role in the pharmacy, I came to understand the importance of good communication and collaboration between various care teams and the nursing team.
Q: Was there a specific moment or interaction that made you realize nursing was your calling?
A: Over my 23 years with Carle Health, many factors have contributed to this new career path. Almost like a chain reaction, moments, interactions, and experiences added together to shape my decision. Ultimately, learning about the MSN-Prelicensure program and getting to know the faculty and leadership of Methodist College, combined with my long-standing interest in having more patient interaction, came together and led me to take these next steps into nursing.
Q: What excites you most about beginning nursing school this fall?
A: Going back to the classroom and being a student again! I can’t wait to be trained in concepts that have always fascinated me so I can be prepared to take care of people. I am also excited about the possibility of getting to know new colleagues and sharing ideas and experiences.
Q: What kind of nurse do you aspire to become?
A: I aspire to be a nurse who is efficient and simultaneously gains a patient’s trust by being a source of good care, warmth, and hope during my interactions with them. What a blessing it is to have the possibility of making a meaningful impact on a patient’s life with a single positive interaction.
Follow along throughout Nurses’ Week for more inspiring Q&A spotlights featuring the students, faculty and staff who make Methodist College and Carle Health exceptional.