Document Type

Article

Domestic/International

Domestic

Location

Remote

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This paper reflects on my experience completing a Nutrition course through Johns Hopkins University as a prerequisite for graduate nursing education and examines how the course has influenced both my professional development and future career goals. Although I initially enrolled because Connecticut College does not offer the nutrition prerequisite required by many direct-entry nursing programs, the course became an important connection between my academic studies, current work, and goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. Through studying evidence-based nutrition, health promotion, disease prevention, and the many factors that influence dietary behaviors, I developed a greater understanding of nutrition as an important component of whole-person healthcare. These concepts have been particularly applicable to my work as a Lifestyle Health Coach supporting individuals with complex chronic illnesses, where symptoms and practical barriers can significantly affect nutrition and other health behaviors. Ultimately, the course strengthened my interest in becoming a nurse practitioner who integrates scientific evidence, patient education, and individualized, holistic care to address both the physical and psychological factors that influence health.

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The views expressed in this paper are solely those of the author.