Life After Mac: Real Stories of alumni finding their way — John

When this opportunity came to me to reflect on my Life After Mac, I embraced it as a chance to dive deep into my personal and professional journey in nursing, something that has begun in Mac and has shaped the path I walk today.

When I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2013, I never imagined my journey would take me here. At 18, I had my sights in accounting, but my parents strongly encouraged (okay, more like insisted) that I consider nursing. At first, there was a bit of a push back on my end, but looking back now, I am so thankful they nudged me in this direction.

In a way, it felt freeing.

I did not have any pressure. If I didn’t do well, I could attribute it to choosing a program that wasn’t originally my choice. If I succeeded, it was due to my ability to rise through a challenge.

And what a challenge it was. My journey was far from easy. The road was often tough, filled with moments of doubt, and overwhelming expectations and responsibility that come with being a student in general. I vividly remember questioning myself if I was truly meant for this path, or even the profession as a whole.

However, in one instance, my life changed.

One of the most pivotal moments in my journey came during one of my pediatric placements. After caring for one of my clients, I had a realization that nursing wasn’t just about providing care, rather it was about connecting with individuals and making a meaningful impact during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

That experience sparked something in me and completely changed my perspective on this profession, and I can honestly say it set the course for the trajectory I’m on today.

Over the years, I’ve gained extensive experience through a variety of nursing roles in the hospital sector here at Hamilton. However, as my career evolved, I realized my passion for teaching in nursing, which led me to pursue graduate studies.

Fast forward a decade later, I’m now in a role that I never imagined for myself: a nursing professor and program coordinator which combines my love for teaching with my passion for planning and organizing.

In this role, there have been many milestones along the way, but not without obstacles. Teaching through a global pandemic has been one of the most challenging experiences of my career. However, in the face of adversity, I’ve witnessed the incredible resilience of our nursing community. I’ve been continuously inspired by the dedication of students who have persevered and rose up to the challenge.

As I work with the next generation of nurses, I feel a profound sense of purpose in my role as an educator. It’s truly a privilege to be part of their journey. Hearing students say they’ve learned so much in this course or even telling me that I’ve inspired them to be better students, is incredibly rewarding.

In celebration of Nursing Week, it’s an honor to share my journey with all of you. I am so thankful that I’m part of this wonderful profession.

To those who are new to the field, or still figuring out your place in it, my advice is simple: give yourself grace. Some of you may already know where you want to specialize, while others may still be figuring it out — and that’s okay. Nursing is an incredibly diverse and dynamic field. You are on a journey, and that journey is challenging and rewarding all at once. And when you do face those moments of struggle, know that it’s okay to lean on your mentors, your peers, and your family.

To all my students, past, present, and future: you are why I do this. Your passion, your

dedication, and your growth inspire me every single day. I am so incredibly proud of each of you, and I hope you will carry the lessons of advocacy, compassion and empathy with you throughout your nursing careers.

Happy Nursing Week!

John Pilla

Bachelor of Science in Nursing ‘13

The Office of Alumni Engagement will be featuring recent grad’s career stories to show career paths are anything but linear. If you graduated in the last 10 years and are interested, share your story.

If you are looking to get started on your own journey, take advantage of the resources available to recent graduates through our partnership with the Student Success Centre.