Meet our students: Mallory Peterson

Hometown: Great Falls, MT

Year/Program: Year 1 Doctor of Nursing (DNP) Practice Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care

What is your research/areas of interest? asthma, diabetes

Mallory Peterson

Why did you choose nursing? I chose nursing because I love helping people. I am drawn to vulnerable populations in particular because of my upbringing in rural Montana where I witnessed many marginalized populations struggle to obtain health care services. When I began my nursing career, I spent two years working in hospice care before I realized my passion for pediatric primary care, which I why I decided to pursue a DNP. What excites me most about being a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner is empowering children and families through health promotion. I hope to improve my patient’s health by equipping them with the tools to make healthful changes in their lives.

What has been an unforgettable experience during your time at the School of Nursing? I really enjoyed learning about therapeutic communication techniques in my mental health nursing course. I decided to employ these skills in a patient interaction during nursing school. One day, I cared for a patient who was recovering from a stroke. I spent over 45 minutes speaking with her about her life. She trusted me enough to tell me that her husband recently passed away and that she was having a difficult time coping with her grief. I listened to her and asked if she would like to speak to a spiritual leader or mental health provider. She thanked me for my time and requested a referral for a therapist, which I passed on to my nurse preceptor.

How has your experience at the School of Nursing helped you with your career trajectory? I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing through the UW School of Nursing. During my undergraduate career at the UW, I realized that I wanted to continue my nursing education and pursue my DNP. I am thankful to the School of Nursing for opening my eyes to graduate school options so that I can realize my dream to become a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner!

What are your plans after graduation? I hope to work in a pediatric primary care office that serves predominately marginalized populations. I am considering a rural setting since there is a huge need for primary care providers there.