There are many paths to becoming a nurse; a fact that makes the discipline accessible and desirable to prospective students. Tania Chavez (she/they), CPNP, The University of New Mexico’s College of Nursing MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program alumni, had an exceptional journey to their current position as a pediatric clinician in Santa Fe’s Presbyterian Medical Services Teen Health Centers.
Beginning her professional journey in psychology and neuropharmacology, they quickly felt the call to integrate healing into their career.
“My early experience in the lab was interesting, but not as engaging as I knew caring for patients would be. And I love children and young people, so I had to be creative about what to do next. My path wasn’t conventional, but I am proof that there are several directions from which to approach a nursing career,” Chavez said.
Their desire to work with children led them to Montessori education: a method of education based on self-directed activity and hands-on learning; foreshadowing of her own education to come at UNM. Her neuropharmacology studies meant most of her medical school prerequisites were done, so when it came to combining her passions for healing and helping young people, she reflected back on her mother’s career as a family nurse practitioner, and her decision to enter nursing was made.
They utilize the skills they have learned from an impressively diverse career and the College of Nursing’s well-rounded PNP program to help young people at Santa Fe High and Capitol High schools. At these clinics, students trust her. From sports physicals and growing pains to mental health concerns and reproductive health, the students know they can come to Chavez and have their concerns addressed and questions answered.
I have a large toolbox to work with this population of young people. Especially thanks to the College of Nursing, I feel prepared to serve young people for whatever their health assessments may reveal. My favorite thing to teach them is to expect good health care.
“I have a large toolbox to work with this population of young people. Especially thanks to the College of Nursing, I feel prepared to serve young people for whatever their health assessments may reveal. My favorite thing to teach them is to expect good health care.” They continue, “Our young people deserve the best care now and through their entire lives, and they will get the best care if they know how to vet adequate care and providers.”
Chavez is a prime example that a versatile education – no matter when pursued – can lead to an invigorated career. She is setting an example for current and future Pediatric Nurse Practitioners in the state that empowering New Mexico’s youth through health care education, providing reliable wellness visits and being a safe place for them to bring their health concerns – physical or mental – results in healthier, happier young adults.
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The University of New Mexico College of Nursing is currently accepting applicants for the Post-Bachelor’s Doctor of Nursing Practice Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration: Applications for the Fall 2024 start are open until January 15, 2024: More Info.