Answering a Calling: How Alma Valencia-Escobar Turned Family Sacrifice into a Career of Service
Alma Valencia-Escobar
Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
For Alma Valencia-Escobar, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice wasn't simply the next step in her career, it was the fulfillment of a promise to herself and to her family.
Growing up, Alma watched her immigrant parents work tirelessly to give their children opportunities they never had. Their sacrifices instilled in her a deep appreciation for education, and when the opportunity arose to begin Bradley University's Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) program during the COVID-19 pandemic, she knew it was the right time.
Today, Alma has achieved her goal of becoming a nurse practitioner and continues pursuing her passion for orthopedic surgery while hoping to inspire the next generation of advanced practice nurses.
“Education is the key to making a better future and providing the guidelines for the best outcomes for our patients,” she says.
We spoke with Alma to learn more about her how Bradley education has turned her goals into reality.
Tell us about your background and what influenced your journey.
I am from San Diego, California. My father is a pastor and my mother is a biochemist. As immigrants, they worked multiple jobs to support our education. Their greatest gift to me was instilling a desire to pursue the highest level of academic achievement.
I have been motivated to make them proud through the academic degrees I have earned.
What inspired you to pursue your DNP-FNP degree?
I had just graduated with my second bachelor's degree in nursing right in the midst of COVID. I remember that year, during the pandemic, the one-year nursing requirement was waived, and I knew it was a sign for me to start my DNP program.
Why did you choose Bradley University?
I did my research, and I liked that Bradley was one of the few programs that offered a BSN-DNP track. I also really liked the idea of being able to complete my clinicals in my resident state, California.
In addition, I researched the legacy of Bradley. And the advisor who assisted me with the application process was really supportive.
How did you feel before starting the program, and how did those feelings change?
I felt very excited to be challenged in a way I had never been before. I felt excited and scared.
At the time, I was a new graduate nurse completing my Periop 101 program and starting graduate school. I had immense imposter syndrome.
As the program continued, my professors helped me believe in myself.
What challenges did you overcome during the program?
The professors were a pivotal part of the program's successful completion. I would not have completed the program and its rigorous requirements without their support.
One of the biggest challenges was that, as in most NP programs, students had to find their own preceptors. As an orthopedic surgery nurse, my connections with family practice, gynecology and pediatrics were very limited.
How satisfied were you with the faculty support?
Dr. Smith, Dr. Bloompott, Dr. Singh and Dr. Lucia were crucial components of the support I needed to complete the program. I felt so supported.
I remember their encouragement made me believe I could make it. And I did!
How did you stay motivated while achieving your goals?
I remained motivated and continued the program with the support of my family and my faith in God.
I was able to continue collaborating with professionals in the field I have always loved. Since my professional dream has always been to be an orthopedic surgery NP, I was able to collaborate with and learn from orthopedic surgeons as an NP student.
Have you been able to apply what you learned in your program to your career or life?
I have learned resilience and patience.
I have learned that resilience is necessary when there are components that we cannot control. I have learned patience when things are challenging, and the outcomes are not as we planned.
I know that all things happen for a reason.
Was the investment in your education worth it?
Yes. The value of this program outweighs the time and financial investment. While the financial investment is still something I will manage over the years, I am convinced that education is the key to making a better future and providing the guidelines for the best outcomes for our patients.
How do you hope to use your degree to make an impact?
My plan was always to become an orthopedic surgery NP and teach for an NP program.
Since my background is in orthopedic surgery, I hope to use my knowledge to increase the opportunities for surgical NPs to be comparable to PA programs.
What advice do you have for future students?
It will be challenging, but it will be done.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Like Alma, you can build the knowledge and confidence to advance your nursing career while preparing to make a lasting impact on the lives of your patients and community. Bradley University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) program is designed for working nurses seeking to expand their clinical expertise, develop leadership skills and prepare for advanced practice.
Learn more about and discover how you can take the next step toward achieving your professional goals.