Courtney’s ability to identify ways to advocate for her patients is exceptional. I had the pleasure of working with her during two clinical rotations. During clinicals, she would ask critical thinking questions such as: "Why aren’t we doing this for the patient?" "Wouldn’t this be better for the patient?" or "What else could we be doing for this patient?"

I had the opportunity to watch her growth, and her concerns reflected her growth and critical thinking development.  Despite all her concerns, Courtney kept a huge smile on her face, and the patients and staff loved her for that. She was always positive and was determined to make sure that her nursing preceptors had an awesome day while training her. 

Sometimes, it is hard to combine a light-hearted spirit with a critical-thinking mind, but somehow, Courtney made it look easy. Of such, she was the light of her clinical group, the encouragement that they needed. All of these reasons are why I know Courtney will be a role model in the nursing community …. With a Smile.