Nursing Professor Encourages Others To Remain Educated, Flexible

Harriette Carr is both a registered nurse and adjunct professor at Cosumnes River College. The college is one of Sacramento's premier educational locations to obtain the necessary knowledge as one seeks the next step in pre-nursing or other health related professions. Carr completed her bachelor's and master's degrees at nearby California State University, Chico and went on to obtain her teaching credential from the University of California, Las Angeles. With Carr's previous expertise and knowledge as a nurse, her teaching has proved invaluable to individuals who wish to move further in their higher education.

What does your job entail?

"I teach in the Careers and Technology Division of Cosumnes River College. Generally, I teach three courses a semester: two sections of Human Disease and one section of Medical Language for Healthcare Professions."

What parts of your job do you find the most enjoyable?

"I particularly like working with students. It's enjoyable to see them exploring their options in health care occupations."

What was your education history like?

"I have a bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from California State University at Chico and a teaching credential from UCLA."

Do you think your education has helped you in your current profession?

"Absolutely. When I finished my bachelor's degree, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher, and so I went to UCLA School of Education to do just that. Then I got a master's degree in nursing with an emphasis in nursing education because I needed to be a specialist in my field of practice."

Any advice for someone seeking a similar career path?

"Set your goals early so that you can define the steps necessary to achieve them. Be flexible and open to new adventures along the way because technology may change how you achieve your goals. Remember that these positions require expertise in two professions: a clinical area and education."

Paulo Acoba is a California native raised in the Bay Area and living in the Central Valley. He enjoys distance running, cycling and grassroots motorsports. He holds a degree in management from the University of California Merced. Paulo has been writing for Examiner.com since 2012 and covering the Fresno area.