"We offer a Nurse Residency Program that is designed for the new graduate nurse. It is structured around monthly learning sessions, with a focus on providing an interactive, reflective and enriched learning environment. The program is designed to enhance recruitment/retention of the new graduate nurse and support their transition into a competent practitioner. I am proud to announce that we recently completed year 19 of this program. I asked our participants to write an open letter to a Dear New Nurse. These kind words of support and encouragement are meant for every nurse, in every position, in every stage of their career."
– Erin Smital, Nursing Professional Development Educator & Nurse Residency Coordinator, RWHC

What I want you to know – It’s going to be OK! We all started where you are now. There’s always something new to learn. Mistakes are ok, learn from them, get back up and keep going. Take care of yourself; you can’t pour from an empty cup. Listen to Erin and Cella: “No” is a complete sentence. Do not feel like you have to explain why, and don’t feel guilty for taking care of yourself. You teach people how to treat you. Be respectful, but stand up for yourself. Lastly, you got this! It can be a rough ride sometimes but also so rewarding. Hang in there!