Laurie Collins, MSN, APRN, FNP

I chose to go to the FIU College of Nursing because it was a four-year college, the program accommodated my schedule, and it was local. My job at the time helped pay for my tuition. Through my clinical rotation, I was able to network with the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses. I did research through my clinical rotation with a woman from that organization, and that led to me becoming the chapter leader for Miami-Dade County. I held that title for four years. I was also awarded a scholarship from Johnson & Johnson. That involved me going to Washington, DC, and advocating for neonatal nursing. My experience working with the young lady in my clinical research helped me to mentor others.