Monica Zinsser

Class of 2005
R.N., Medical Intensive Care Unit
Rush University Medical Center
Chicago , Illinois

As a nursing student at Valparaiso University, Monica Zinsser enjoyed being involved in numerous activities. She also came in regular contact with Dr. Janet Brown, dean of the College of Nursing.

That proved to be a life-shaping combination for the 2005 Valpo graduate.

“One of the great benefits of Valpo's nursing program is that the faculty encourages students to take advantage of the University's many beyond-the-classroom opportunities while providing academic counseling that keeps us on track for graduation,” Zinsser says.

“As an undergraduate, I assisted a professor with research, played intramural sports, joined a sorority, led the Student Nurses Association, counseled for the Sexual Assault Awareness and Facilitative Education organization, completed a hospital internship and studied abroad. I made lifelong friends, polished my leadership and speaking skills, and found my life's work.”

It was Dr. Brown's advice to take advantage of opportunities to study abroad that led to Zinsser's interest in medical mission work.

"My passion for medical missions results directly from Dean Brown's encouragement to take advantage of Valpo's travel opportunities,” she says. “Given her open mind and motivating personality, I couldn't help but make her my personal mentor. Following her advice, I studied in both China and Germany. I traveled to Papua New Guinea with my theology 'Medical Missions' class and to Costa Rica and Nicaragua on a medical mission trip. Finally, last summer, I went to Ecuador with the international service vocations class. ”Knowing first hand that the lifestyle is difficult, I've decided to become a medical missionary in an impoverished community. As I further prepare myself by working with intensive care patients, I know that Valpo's nursing program gave me the opportunities, skills and confidence to meet the challenges of medical mission work.”

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