Karly Flannigan’s love for nursing was confirmed in 2017 when she completed her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) diploma.
“As soon as I was nursing, I knew that this career was my passion. I enrolled immediately to pursue my dream of becoming a Registered Nurse,” she said.
Karly was accepted into College of the Rockies’ Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, held in partnership with the University of Victoria. Originally from Kamloops, B.C., Karly was drawn to the beauty of the Cranbrook area as well as the opportunity to take part in unique training opportunities.
“I chose the College partly because of the location,” she said. “Being surrounded by mountains was what initially drew me there, however, the main reason was the rural experience I was able to get through the College’s program. We are extremely lucky to participate in the rural practicum experiences and to benefit from smaller class sizes and exceptional professors.”
A student in the BSN program amidst the COVID pandemic, Karly made the extraordinary decision to balance being a student adapting to a new way of learning with working at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital (EKRH) as an LPN, truly displaying the commitment and fortitude that will make her an excellent nurse.
“Working as an LPN while going to school was super rewarding and exciting,” Karly said. “I learned so many new skills and found it amazing to have the opportunity to apply them to my practice.”
Though she admitted to challenges at the time, she remained grateful for the opportunity to work and financially support herself.
Since completing her BSN, Karly continues to work at EKRH in the medical unit. Having also completed her labour and delivery specialty, she hopes to end up working in that unit in the future.
For others considering attending the College, Karly advises them to go for it.
“It has been such a joy attending the College. You will not regret applying,” she said. “The BSN program has some incredible instructors. They were the reason why us new grad nurses feel so prepared and confident in our new positions. I’d like to thank all the nursing faculty for playing a pivotal role in my nursing journey.”