Amanda Alexander, DNP, MSN-Ed, RN

I am driven by a strong desire to positively impact others' lives, and that purpose guides my daily decisions. I recognize that my success is not accidental, but the result of the choices I make each day.

My progress is rooted in persistence. Even when the path feels long or uncertain, I continue to show up. I’ve learned that consistency, "especially on the hardest days", matters more than brief bursts of motivation.

Growth is another foundation of my success. I don’t expect to know everything, but I do expect myself to keep learning. Challenges don’t stop me; they shape me. I remember a time when an unexpected project delay left me overwhelmed and doubting my abilities. Working through that experience strengthened my skills, deepened my confidence, and built lasting resilience. Every obstacle since has added to that growth.

Purpose fuels my commitment. Making a meaningful difference for the people I serve, the teams I support, and the systems I help improve gives direction to my work. I recall leading a project that reduced student anxiety around testing. Seeing their relief as they moved through a smoother process reaffirmed why my work matters. Moments like that remind me that impact is what drives lasting motivation.

I’ve also grown by moving forward even when I feel unsure. Real growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones. I still remember standing in front of a classroom for the first time, heart pounding as the room fell silent. As I began to speak, I realized I wasn’t just finding my voice; I was expanding my limits. Each new role, challenge, and opportunity to speak has stretched my confidence and strengthened my sense of capability.

Above all, my success comes from refusing to stay the same. I am always learning, always evolving, and always working to become better than I was before.

My success is not luck. It is resilience, purpose, courage, and a continuous commitment to growth.

Careers aren’t ladders anymore; they’re jungle gyms. The people who thrive are the ones who keep learning, keep adapting, and keep their integrity intact.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to give yourself grace as you learn, grow, and navigate your careers. Healthcare can feel hierarchical, and it’s easy to doubt yourself. Speak up, share your ideas, and advocate for your patients and learners; your perspective matters. Confidence grows each time you step into uncomfortable situations.

CNEs face significant challenges due to nursing shortages and high patient care demands, which often leave less time for mentoring, teaching, and supporting learners. Even in this environment, setting aside protected time for education helps nurses get the support they need. Other helpful steps include sharing responsibility through tiered mentorship, using microteaching moments, and improving staffing models. While clinical demands can’t be removed, organizing educator time, using technology, training preceptors, and integrating teaching into daily routines can help CNEs teach effectively without burning out.

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are discipline, balance, and continuous growth. I’m passionate about health and fitness, including weightlifting, bodybuilding, and staying active through biking. I also prioritize time with my son and enjoy reading, currently exploring self-help books like those by Steven Furtick, to continue learning and growing personally and professionally.