Travel Nurse of the Month – Courtney O!
Name: Courtney O.
City, State: La Crosse, WI
Specialty: Oncology
Month: June 1
1. What have been your most memorable moments as a travel nurse thus far?
My most memorable moments as a travel nurse have been seeing myself evolve not only professionally, but personally through new human connections and the experiences from the places that I have explored. I feel that I have become more open and confident when exploring new terrain. It feels amazing to be independent, and to know that wherever I go, I can find a home. This opportunity of travel nursing has truly opened my eyes to a whole new perspective on the world.
2. What has influenced you to continue traveling?
Traveling for me is an opportunity to grow both in my professional and personal life. I love the challenges that come with travel nursing. Challenges push you, you can struggle, or you can see these moments as a gift to prosper. Traveling gives me the opportunity to learn more about the world, myself, and this is something I never want to stop doing.
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3. What’s been the most surprising aspect of being a travel nurse that you least expected?
My first assignment was a difficult one for me. Missing home and not being around my family made me wonder if travel nursing was something I truly wanted to pursue. The transition was hard, but SO worth every step. Finding home in foreign places is attainable. The positive is that there are always opportunities for a travel assignment close to home, and I always make it a point to have extended periods with family between travel contracts.
4. You meet a first time travel nurse in the La Crosse area, which restaurant is a must for them to try?
There are a plethora of good options for eating in the La Crosse area, it’s hard for me to pick just one! But if I had to choose, I would recommend the Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern. I love outdoor open seating, so there outdoor patio that overlooks the Mississippi is always my go to on a warm sunny day (they have heaters for those not so nice days)! The ambiance, a great variety of healthy options (vegetarian as well) on their menu, and a heck of a happy hour, all make this place one of my favorites. Not to mention live music on a lot of the weekends!
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4. What’s the best part about the La Crosse area?
Most people look at the Midwest and perceive it as this cold and boring place. However, I love the four seasons we get here in the Midwest. I love all the green, the natural bodies of water, and especially the bluffs that surround this driftless region. I feel my body is more balanced in this environment. One of my favorite times of the year is fall, watching all the luscious green turn to a beautiful array of colors. There is recreation everywhere, and so much more to explore than you could imagine in the La Crosse area!
5. What’s the best advice for fellow travelers wrapping up their first assignment?
Your first travel assignment will always be your most challenging one. It’s that first big step, a huge transition and shift in your life. Keep faith, and know that you are doing EXACTLY what you need to be doing for YOU. There is a reason why you were intrigued in travel nursing in the first place. If you struggle being away from your family and your “normal” home life, know that you can ALWAYS visit, or even take an assignment near there. This opportunity is something you were given for growth, don’t let fear feed you, dive in baby!
You may also like: Check out our previous Traveler of the Month winners!
6. How do you compare Axis to others travel companies?
I have only good things to say about this company! This company may be smaller than a lot of agencies, but I enjoy this community feel that you get working with Axis. Bigger is not always better. 🙂 My recruiter, Nicole, is truly a ROCK STAR, as well as everyone else I have had the privilege of collaborating with. This company cares not only about your professional growth, but your personal growth as well. The most important thing for me is connection, so having a team that is so caring and passionate about what they do is key. I would advise anyone looking for a travel nurse agency to really feel things out with the company. Are you just another number, or does this agency genuinely want you to succeed in life? Get to know your recruiter before committing to anything!
Congrats Courtney! We’re beyond thrilled to call you an Axis Rock Star!
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