DUSON Student Spotlight highlights the diverse background of our nursing students and their personal stories of dedication, leadership, perseverance and academic or community achievements.

DUSON shines a spotlight on PhD student Brittney Sullivan from Ipswich, MA. Sullivan will graduate in May of 2017.

Q: What would people be surprised to know about you?

A: I've traveled to 23 countries and six continents. But, I haven't made it to Antarctica yet!

Q: What is a cause you're passionate about?

A: Pediatric global health and providing care in high disease burden areas with few resources.

Q: Tell us about a project, service group or organization that you are involved with at DUSON, Duke University or in the community.

A: I am on the student council as the PhD representative. This has been a great opportunity and has allowed me to get to know students in all of the DUSON programs. It has been wonderful being part of the student body for social events, raising awareness through campaigns, selling merchandise to promote DUSON, and build community. I feel fortunate to be on campus, and being part of student council has helped me integrate more with the ABSN cohorts and see more familiar faces in the DUSON halls.

Q: What have you learned (or are learning) that's made a difference for you?

A: Learning from patients, peers, and mentors is something that happens daily. I feel fortunate for the opportunities I've had in my career, and I try to take advantage of as many experiences as I can, while staying focused on my goals. Since my days as an undergraduate nursing student, my philosophy has been from a Peruvian proverb, "it is always better to prevent than to cure" and I think that has stuck with me throughout my practice and learning throughout the years. Whether thinking about preventing illness or preventing adverse outcomes, I think prevention is key. Thinking of the best ways to mitigate or reduce harm before, during, or after an event is critical. 

Q: How does your nursing degree fit into your life's plans?

A: Getting my PhD at Duke is helping me plan for my future of creating impact through research and education. I've practiced as a pediatric nurse practitioner for five years, and I absolutely love patient care and the gratification from working with children and families, but I see myself also making a difference in peoples' lives at the population level through health policy, patient advocacy, and nursing leadership.

Student Spotlight Submissions: If you are a DUSON student and would like to be featured or know someone who deserves to be featured, click here to complete the DUSON Student Spotlight Questionnaire.