The Power of Mentorship: A Mentee’s Journey

By Emily Francia, RN

In the following article, TNA member Emily Francia shares her experience as a mentee.

Being a mentee during nursing school was one of the most impactful experiences of my educational journey. Nursing school is demanding, and balancing coursework, clinicals, and the emotional weight of preparing for the profession can feel overwhelming.
Having a mentor like Shasta made all the difference.

Shasta and I were paired during my first semester while she was halfway through the program. From the start, she reached out regularly via text, checking in on me and offering words of encouragement. Her messages, while simple, carried immense weight.
They reminded me that someone who had walked this path before believed in my ability to succeed.

What set Shasta apart as a mentor was her genuine care and ability to listen. She didn’t just offer advice; she created a safe space for me to share my concerns, struggles, and questions. Whether I was facing academic challenges or grappling with the
intensity of clinicals, she provided the support I needed to move forward with confidence.

Now, as a nurse, I reflect on how her guidance shaped not only my academic journey but also my professional one. Shasta’s mentorship didn’t end when nursing school was over. We continue to stay in touch, and her insights and encouragement still inspire
me as I navigate my career. Having someone who understands both the challenges of nursing school and the realities of the profession has been invaluable.

Being a mentee taught me the value of connection and the importance of seeking support in challenging times. Mentorship is a two-way street, where both individuals grow and learn from the experience. Shasta’s guidance and encouragement not only helped
me navigate nursing school but also inspired me to one day become a mentor and provide the same support to others.

Looking back, the mentorship experience reinforced the idea that success is not achieved in isolation. It requires community, compassion, and the willingness to uplift others. To anyone entering a mentoring relationship, my advice is to embrace it fully.
Be open, seek guidance, and let the experience shape you into a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.