Yolanda Carlton, BSN, RN, HNB-BC

After being a nurse for nearly ten years, Yolanda found herself at a crossroads in her career. “I’m a firm believer in the importance of career progression, so going back to school for my Master's in Nursing Education was the next step in my nursing journey.” 

“My goal is to make a difference in healthcare, and the best way to achieve this is by becoming a nurse educator. I want to support, empower, and mentor our nurses. The Covid-19 pandemic has been extremely challenging for healthcare workers, especially nurses and nursing assistants.” 

“Now more than ever, nurses need effective, caring leaders and educators. I aspire to make a real difference in our nursing community and healthcare.” 

“I feel like my mission is extremely well supported in so many ways by UConn–all the tools I need to be successful are readily available. The program director, Dr. Bourassa, has been such an amazing mentor and advisor. All the professors have been extremely supportive and always available to answer my questions. And UConn has great resources, like the online library database, which has allowed me to be successful in classes. The plan of study is designed in such a way that the courses don't feel overwhelming.”

“I can tell that a lot of research and effort was put into developing this program.” 

Not only is Yolanda confident that once she graduates, she’ll have all the tools and knowledge to be a successful nurse educator, but she’s already planning to return to UConn to pursue her doctorate in nursing practice (DNP). 

“I couldn't be happier with my decision to attend UConn for my nurse educator master’s degree.”