Missouri State Outreach

Continuing & Distance Education

Morgan Spoor receiving Citizen Scholar Award.

Q and A with Morgan Spoor

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Morgan Spoor is a practicing nurse currently enrolled in Missouri State’s online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing Completion (BSN) program. Morgan was recently awarded the Citizen Scholar award for her achievements in academics, community engagement and leadership. Morgan was featured in a spotlight highlighting her life leading up to this award.

We had the pleasure of asking Morgan some questions about her online education journey. Here is what she had to say.

Q: What made you want to earn your BSN?

A: I wanted to continue my education so I could be better in my nursing abilities and be the best nurse I can be.  

Q: How did you celebrate your admission into the online BSN?

A: I messaged all my close friends and showed them my letter. I also went out and bought a new printer for myself since I was going to need one.  

Q: How has the online process benefited you, and what is your favorite part about learning online? 

A: I really like being able to work at my own pace. I also like being able to be home with my kids while I work on schoolwork.  

Q: How do you incorporate MSU’s public affairs mission into your work and education? 

A: I use it by always remembering to be the best leader I can be to my coworkers. I also try to make sure I give my patients the best care by advocating for them. Being culturally aware is something else I am always mindful of. I want to make sure my patients are comfortable, and I want to do whatever it is that they need me to do to feel that way. 

Q: Did you have a specific moment where you realized you were making real progress in your understanding of nursing? 

A: The moments I think of are the ones when my patients give me a hug or shake my hand and tell me, thank you for caring for me. This is why I went into nursing, to care for others. It’s these moments where all the hard work pays off.  

Q: How do you stay organized balancing parenting, career, and schoolwork?  

A: This is a hard one. My kids come first, so whatever they need, I do that first. Then when I have time, usually when they all go to bed, is when I get to really focus on homework and studying. I work nights in the ER, so 3 days (sometimes 4) are dedicated to working. It’s not easy, but in the end, it will be worth it to walk across that stage and get that degree.  

Q: How has your classwork come into play with your current job? 

A: It has taught me how to do a better assessment of my patient. Also, it has taught me the why. Such as why I am giving a certain medicine. It also helps my patients because I can educate them properly. 

Q: How did you feel when you received your Citizen Scholar Award? 

A: I was speechless. I could not believe I was nominated in the first place. Then when I got the letter that said I had received this amazing honor, I almost cried. I just could not believe it.  

Q: What advice would you give someone who is starting their online nursing degree soon? 

A: I would tell them to make sure and take it seriously. It is easy to put things off to the end, but then you don’t do your best work. Also, the instructors are all very nice and are ready to help you succeed. So, reach out to them when you have a question. Keep the end goal in mind and finish strong. 

Q: What’s next for you going forward?

A: I really want to continue my education. Getting my master’s is my next goal, and I am hoping to obtain that through MSU. 

 

Morgan is continuing her pursuit in academics and public affairs. We wish her all the best going forward and are proud to have her as a student.

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