Introduction, Networking and Goals Alignment
Introduction and Alignment with Walden University
My name is AR, and I currently reside in Texas. I began my nursing career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), a role I proudly served in for ten years. A year and a half ago, I transitioned to become a Registered Nurse (RN), and my clinical background has largely centered on psychiatric and substance use nursing. Before obtaining my RN license, I worked at a psychiatric hospital, providing care for individuals with mental health and addiction issues: Introduction, Networking and Goals Alignment.
After becoming an RN, I accepted a position as a nurse manager in an ambulatory pain management center. While the administrative aspect is new to me, I am enjoying the experience and its challenges. My decision to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in psychiatric mental health aligns with my professional history and deep-rooted interest in behavioral health. I believe now is the perfect time to further my education and elevate my practice.
Alignment with Walden’s Mission, Vision, Goals, and Social Change Initiatives
My personal objectives are similar to Walden University’s mission, which aims to empower a wide group of career professionals to become scholar-practitioners. The mission’s emphasis on effecting positive social change directly supports my aspiration to improve mental health outcomes and reduce stigma in underserved populations (Walden University, 2021c). The College of Nursing’s goal of advancing quality care through evidence-based practices aligns with my belief that education empowers nurses to make more informed and compassionate decisions.
Walden’s commitment to social change has motivated me to become not just a provider but a leader and advocate in mental health nursing. My personal objectives are similar to Walden University’s mission, which aims to empower a wide group of career professionals to become scholar-practitioners.
Walden MSN Program Outcomes and Perspectives
Walden’s MSN Program Learning Outcomes support my vision of becoming a scholar-practitioner. Outcomes such as engaging in lifelong learning, applying research to practice, and embracing interprofessional collaboration reflect the very skills I wish to cultivate. As I work toward becoming a PMHNP, these competencies will prepare me to deliver culturally competent, patient-centered care. Additionally, the emphasis on ethical practice and leadership within the program will enhance my ability to advocate for system-wide improvements in mental health delivery.
Walden’s academic model, which integrates flexibility, rigorous scholarship, and real-world application, suits my current professional role and learning preferences. Being able to study while maintaining my responsibilities as a nurse manager ensures I remain connected to practical challenges in the healthcare system while growing my capabilities as a mental health clinician (Walden University, 2021a).
The Importance of Networking in Academic and Professional Growth
Professional networking is a crucial strategy for advancing both academic and career goals. It provides opportunities for mentorship, resource sharing, and collaborative problem-solving. As a student, networking with faculty, peers, and alumni will help me navigate challenges and identify opportunities for clinical placement and research. As a professional, it connects me with nurse leaders and mental health advocates who can support my career progression.
According to Haruta & Tsugawa (2021) networking allows nurses to build relationships that can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and professional development. Engaging in networking activities, such as joining psychiatric nursing organizations and attending mental health conferences, will be instrumental in keeping me informed about industry trends and best practices. Ultimately, networking will help me develop as a competent, connected, and compassionate PMHNP.
Conclusion
Walden University’s mission, vision, and learning outcomes strongly support my journey toward becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My professional experiences have shaped my passion for behavioral health, and Walden provides the ideal platform for advancing that passion into leadership and advocacy. With the support of Walden’s resources and networking opportunities, I am confident in my ability to grow as a scholar-practitioner committed to social change and improving mental health care in my community.
References
Haruta, J., & Tsugawa, S. (2021). What types of networks do professionals build, and how are they affected by the results of network evaluation? Frontiers in Public Health, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.758809
Walden University. (2021a). About the College. https://www.waldenu.edu/college-of-
Walden University. (2021c). Vision, Mission, and Goals. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=181&navoid=66193
ORDER A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER HERE
We’ll write everything from scratch
Question
Please follow the direction for this assignment please read below for instructions.
- Review the Walden and College of Nursing mission and vision statements, Walden’s goals and University Outcomes, and the MSN Program Learning Outcomes presented in this Week’s Learning Resources.
- Reflect on your professional and academic goals as they relate to your program/specialization.
- Consider how the information in these resources fit with your own goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner.
- Also consider academic and professional individuals and teams with whom you may collaborate in support of your efforts as a student at the university and as a professional within your organization and career.
- Consider the importance of networking and how it may help you achieve your professional and academic goals.
Post a brief introduction of yourself to your colleagues. Include an explanation as to how Walden’s vision, mission, goals, and social change initiatives relate to your professional and academic goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner. Also include an explanation for how the Walden MSN Program Outcomes and perspectives relate to your professional and academic goals and to your becoming a scholar-practitioner. Finally, explain why networking is important and how it may help you achieve your professional and academic goals.
This is my breath introduction please feel free to add to it by following the instruction.
My name is AR currently residing in the state of Texas. I was an LPN for 10 years. I recently became a RN about a year and half ago. Prior to becoming and RN I was practicing as a mental health and substance use nurse at a psychiatric hospital.

Introduction, Networking and Goals Alignment
Upon becoming and RN I decided to transition into becoming a nurse manager at an ambulatory pain management center. So far, I am enjoying the new experience. I have decided to pursue higher education in the field of psychiatrics, and I feel that this is the right time for me to pursuit. I am very excited about this new journey, and I am looking forward on what’s ahead.
Supported by at least three current, credible sources. You can use this links.
Walden University. (n.d.). College of Nursing. Retrieved October June 5, 2020, from https://www.waldenu.edu/about/colleges-schools/college-of-nursing
Walden University. (n.d.) Walden University catalog. Retrieved October 4, 2019, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
Schmidt, K. (n.d.). 5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking [Blog post]. Retrieved October 12, 2018, from https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/
Vision, mission, and goals. (n.d.). Retrieved September 26, 2021, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=181&navoid=66193
Nurse.org. (2021). 10 Networking Tips for Nurses Who Hate Networking. https://nurse.org/articles/tips-for-nurse-networking/
Walden University. (n.d.). About | NLN/Walden. Retrieved September 26, 2021, from https://www.nlnwaldensdoh.org/who-we-are
Walden University. (2021a). About the College. https://www.waldenu.edu/college-of-nursing#about
Walden University. (2021b). Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). https://catalog.waldenu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=181&poid=73230&returnto=66598
Walden University. (2021c). Vision, Mission, and Goals. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=181&navoid=66193
