Expectations of All Students
Active Learning
We expect that as a student, and an active learner, you identify your strengths and areas for improvement, set personal goals that address the areas for improvement, and actively seek learning opportunities to meet your goals. You may consider discussing your goals with your Project Mentor as they may have additional support or suggestions for you as you develop and implement your DNP Project.
Time Management
Expanding your Advanced Practice role with doctoral education will require a commitment of time. It will be essential to keep a work-life balance as you juggle your personal and professional responsibilities. If you haven’t already, look at your obligations outside of school and identify ways that you can be successful in managing the program requirements. You may want to seek resources and formulate a plan now so that you can get the most out of this experience.
Communication with Faculty
You will have a designated immersion faculty member who is responsible for the evaluation of your performance. It is essential that you keep your designated immersion faculty member informed of any change in your immersion site or schedule, Project Mentor, as well as any unanticipated events that occur during the immersion experience, e.g., illness or injury related to experience.
Professionalism
It is not uncommon that DNP Students complete their DNP projects in their place of employment. This can sometimes create challenges related to expectations around job duties and Immersion hours. It is recommended that you meet with your Project Mentor and supervisor to outline your plans for completion of your DNP Project and Immersion hours, and how this will work around your scheduled job duties (should that apply). Developing a collaborative plan will set the expectations for all parties and help to alleviate confusion or misunderstandings before they develop.
The Immersion experience provides an opportunity for students to develop an area of interest or focus. The process of developing your DNP project and the deep dive into the literature around your project provides you with an area of expertise. As an Advanced Practice Provider, you understand the importance of collaborative relationships with patients, doctors, fellow health care providers, and other health care staff. If a conflict arises, students must make an effort to resolve the situation positively. Many of you are natural leaders, and we encourage you to discover the power of positive leadership as you move toward your future. Faith, religion, and spirituality are distinct components of what defines many human communities and allows individuals to make sense of their experiences. Sensitivity to those beliefs is key to your role as a caring, compassionate health care provider.