Complexity of ICU cases draws future RN

Leslie Chau is an undergraduate nursing student involved in student government who looks to her family as role models.

Best placement you have had so far as a student

"The best placement I've had thus far is on Unit 93 Internal Medicine at RGH, which is a Medical Teaching Unit. I found that this unit had patients with a wide variety of medical illnesses that challenged me to not only critically think and connect theory to practice, but also provide an opportunity to gain exposure to lots of different illnesses I will likely see as a future registered nurse." 

Your dream nursing job

"Since the start of my nursing education, I have always wanted to be an ICU Registered Nurse because something about the acuity and complexity of these patients have always intrigued me."

Best piece of advice you have ever been given: 

"The best piece of advice I have received was from one of my patients, who told me “Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something.” This is perhaps the best advice that pushed me through the challenging parts of nursing school — and is applicable even outside of nursing. Also, always have alcohol swabs in your scrub pockets!"

Who are your real-life heroes?

"My family. My parents and my brother are the people that push me to be the best possible version of myself, all while supporting me during difficult times. They are incredible role models for me, and are the reason why I am who I am today."

What quality do you think every nurse should have?

"I think that every nurse should have compassion and empathy, regardless of what field of nursing they enter. Although it is essential for nurses to be intelligent in regards to connecting theory to practice, I believe that having compassion and empathy isn't something that can be taught and influences the care of patients/families immensely."

What is your personal credo/motto?

"If at first you don't succeed, fix your ponytail and try again."

UCalgary Nursing’s online mentoring program connecting alumni RNs with student nurses for professional and personal growth. To find out more, visit nursing.ucalgary.ca/alumni/nursementor