"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 – Trust your instincts. Speak up if you don’t understand something. Speak up if you don’t agree with something. Be a leader! There will be difficult days, but use those difficult days as an experience to grow as a nurse. We all have been in your shoes before! Remember the reason why you became a nurse to help get you through the rough times. Remember, you matter! It’s ok to say no! Your health matters too!