The end of high school.

I remembered the moment when I had to make my decision. I was sitting in my room, surrounded by my cegep notes, realizing that everything was over. After years of studying and completing internships, I found myself facing a choice that would change my future. I thought back to the patients I had met and the situations where I had doubted confident. But another part of me wanted to start working immediately, gain experience, and step into the reality of the field. I felt torn between these two paths. The more I thought about it, the faster my heartbeat. I was afraid of making the wrong choice, but I knew I had to decide. I paused for a moment and took a deep breath. Should I go to university to deepen my knowledge, or should I start working directly in a hospital?

Choice 1 : Go to university

Choice 2 : Go to the job market

Go to university.

After thinking about it for a long time, I finally decided to go to university. This choice was not easy, but I felt that I still needed to learn and improve myself. I wanted to deepen my knowledge, better understand clinical situations, and become more confident in my interventions. I also knew that continuing my studies would allow me to get a better salary and better working conditions in the long term. When I started my courses, I quickly realized that I was stepping out of my comfort zone. I was learning new concepts, analyzing complex cases, and developing my clinical judgment. Even though it required a lot of effort, I felt motivated and determined. I knew that this path would help me become a better nurse and prepare me for greater challenges. This experience was invaluable, even if one drawback was the workload that could sometimes hinder my balance.

Choice 1 : The end of high school.

Do an internship abroad.

After thinking about it, I decided to do an internship abroad. This decision made me feel both excited and stressed because I knew I would be stepping out of my comfort zone. When I arrived in this new country, I was quickly confronted with a reality that was different from what I was used to. Resources were sometimes limited, there was a clear lack of resources, and at first, I felt overwhelmed. However, I quickly learned the ins-and-outs of the environment and started to learn the ropes and practices varied, which forced me to adapt quickly. I learned to observe more, communicate despite the language barrier, and work with different means. I also built connections with patients and healthcare professionals, which made the experience even more meaningful. Even though some moments were difficult, I felt proud of myself for taking on this challenge. This internship allowed me to grow, become more independent, and develop a stronger ability to adapt.

Choice 1 : Do my internship in Strasbourg

Choice 2 : Do my internship in Benin

Do my internship in Strasbourg.

After thinking about it, I decided to do my internship in Strasbourg. When I arrived, I discovered a modern and well-organized hospital. At first, I felt intimidated by the strict protocols and fast pace. However, I quickly adapted. I participated inpatient care, worked with the health care team, and improved my clinical judgment. This experience helped me become more confident and organized. This experience felt like real on-the-job training (OJT), and I had to do a lot of leg work.

Choice 1 : Do an internship abroad.

Entering the workforce.

After thinking about it for a long time, I finally decided to enter to workforce directly. I felt the need to put into practice everything I had learned during my cegep studies and to develop my autonomy quickly. I wanted to experience the reality of the field, take on responsibilities, and gain concrete experience. I also wanted to earn a stable income and benefit from a good wage and compensation. During my first day at the hospital, I realized that the pace was intense and demanding, I had to adapt quickly, learn how to manage my time, and face unexpected situations. Even though it sometimes scared me, I felt motivated and ready to take on the challenge. I knew that this experience would help me grow, become more confident, and improve as a nurse. At times, the pace felt maddening, so I had to improve my time management skills.

Choice 1 : Work in the maternity department

Choice 2 : Work in the pediatric department

Work in the maternity department.

After making my decision, I chose to work in maternity. From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in an environment full of emotions and important moments for families. I supported mothers during pregnancy and after childbirth, which required a lot of listening and gentleness. I participated in newborn care, supported breastfeeding, and reassured parents in their new responsibilities. At times, I felt more emotional during these life-changing moments, but it also motivated me to do my best. This experience helped me develop patience, observation skills, and the ability to support families during a very important stage of their lives. This role gave me a deep sense of fulfillment and showed me how worthwhile this work was.

Choice 1 : Work in the maternity department

Work in the pediatric department.

After making my decision, I chose to work in pediatrics. From the beginning, I was faced with a different environment where care had to be adapted to the age and development of children. I quickly understood that I needed to be gentle, patient, and creative. I participated in the care of children, supported families, and observed how young patients reacted to treatments. At times, I found it difficult to manage their emotions or fear, but I learned how to reassure them and build a trusting relationship. This experience helped me develop empathy, communication skills, and the ability to adapt my care to each child. I always tried to remain thoughtful and understand the purpose of my actions.

Choice 1 : Work in palliative care department

Choice 2 : Work in oncology department

Work in the palliative care department.

After making my decision, I chose to work in palliative care. From the moment I arrived, I was faced with a very human and emotional environment. At times, I felt a sense of dread, but I continued to provide compassionate care. I supported patients at the end of life and learned to provide comfort rather than curative treatments. I supported families, listened to their concerns, and tried to make these moments more peaceful. At times, I found this experience of presence, listening, and dignity in care.

Choice 1 : Work in the palliative care department

Work in the oncology department.

After making my decision, I chose to work in oncology. I quickly faced with cancer and complex treatments such as chemotherapy. I participated in patient care, monitored side effects, and supported both patients and their families. I sometimes experienced difficult situations, but I learned to stay professional and provide constant support. This experience helped me develop resilience and the ability to accompany patients through very challenging moments. This reinforced my sense of purpose as a nurse.

Choice 1 : Work in the oncology department

Ending 1.

I felt proud of my journey and everything I had learned. Even though it was difficult at times, I became a stronger and more confident nurse.

Choice 1 : The end of high school.

Ending 2.

I realized that this path was not what I expected, and I still had doubts about my future. I knew I might need to make a different choice.

Choice 1 : The end of high school.