This month, we’re featuring Michelle Bradshaw an experienced RN, world traveler, mom, and Vero Nurse Spotlight. It’s exciting to see Michelle enjoy the journey of travel nursing. Michelle has traveled internationally and specializes in ER. Keep reading to learn more about Michelle.
What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
I’ve been a nurse for 19 years. While in the hospital with my 3rd child, I had a nurse that took good care of me. It was a special moment, and her care inspired me to pursue nursing and help others too. So my background includes labor & delivery, as well as NICU.
I started as a travel nurse a little over a year ago. My first assignment was in Guam, and it was a wonderful experience. Initially, my friend referred me to Vero and encouraged me to travel to Guam. As a mom, I needed to wait until my kids got older before I started travel nursing. But once my kids were older and graduated from high school, I’m fortunate my friend pushed me out of my comfort zone to tackle my first assignment.
What has been the most exciting part of being a travel nurse?
I’ve only had two assignments so far, but I really enjoyed traveling to Guam. The location is breathtaking. While working in Guam, I was able to take great vacations to Thailand and the Philippines. I worked through a typhoon in both areas. It was very interesting to learn about a new culture and island life. But I was only able to see my family every 13 weeks.
Now that I’m in Charleston, WV on a new assignment, I’m enjoying the best of both worlds. I’m seeing cool new things, but I can easily get home if needed. In Charleston, I’m working on a level 1 trauma center, which challenges me to learn more skills. If I would have stayed home, as a staff nurse, I might not have experienced that opportunity.
What’s the most challenging part of being a travel nurse, and how do you overcome it?
For me, it was working in Guam, because of the distance and getting used to a new lifestyle. But as time went on, I learned new things and started to connect with others there. It turned out to be one of the best experiences for me.
Why do you enjoy working with Vero?
My recruiter is phenomenal. He is encouraging and supportive. At first, I was a bit wary, but my recruiter pushed me and got me where I needed to go. He helped me to get comfortable in my new location in West Virginia. I can call him any time, any day and he will respond immediately, ready to help me. Vero has always been very good to me, and I’m happy with their support and hard work of finding me assignments that I enjoy. I am pleased and happy with Vero.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
As a hobby, I make glitter cups and other materials. I specialize in custom t-shirts, scrapbooks, and I enjoy reading. I love hiking and outdoor activities.
What locations are on your bucket list?
Alaska & Maine.
Do you have any advice for first-time travelers?
Yes. Be open and flexible. Your new facility might have a different way of doing things but embrace the challenge and learn from the experience.
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