Embracing the Climb: From Cleaning Floors to a DNP
Submitted by Leonard Benavidez DNP, NPD-BC, RN-BC
Tags: dnp education hardship nursing education
I was working as an EVS Floor Tech at a nursing home—you know, the guy who keeps the floors clean and shiny—when one day, out of the blue, I got asked a question that would forever change my life: “Do you want to be a CNA?” Now, I had no clue what a CNA was. But when they said I’d get paid for the two-week training and, get this, a dollar raise, I was like, Sign me up! I mean, that extra dollar felt like winning the lottery back then!
When I started the CNA class, I fell in love with learning about patient care. But by the end of week two, I had a startling realization—what happens in the classroom is a whole different ballgame from real patient care. Suddenly, I was ready to throw in the towel. I went back to my EVS supervisor, practically begging for my old job back. And do you know what she said? “No, you need to finish what you started!” That moment changed everything for me, and looking back, I am beyond grateful she didn’t let me quit.
For five years, I poured myself into being a CNA, and along the way, I started to wonder, Could I actually become an LVN? The self-doubt was real, I had some long talks with myself about whether I could do it. But eventually, I worked up the nerve to apply, and surprise of all surprises, I got in! Now, I didn’t have a car, and the program was in the next town over, but somehow, I made it work.
After 10 years as an LVN, the same voice of doubt whispered again when I thought about going for my ADN. But I pushed forward, and that degree led me to my bachelor’s. Before I knew it, I was a med-surg nurse, caring for patients and their families. But of course, the question popped up again: What’s next?
I applied to the master’s program not once, but twice. The first time I was accepted, imposter syndrome knocked me flat. Who do you think you are trying to get a master’s degree? So, I talked myself out of going. The second time around, I had more confidence (and way more pep talks with myself), and I finally earned my MSN in Education. By then, I was hooked on learning. Naturally, the next step was to dive headfirst into a DNP program.
Now, let me tell you, every single day, I questioned my sanity. Every week, I was ready to throw in the towel. But my work family wouldn’t let me give up on myself, and in December 2023, I earned my DNP! Even now, it feels unreal. Me? The guy who used to mop floors? Now, I have a doctorate.
I used to feel embarrassed about my journey—the insecurities, the low points, and all the moments of doubt. But now I embrace it. So, to anyone reading this, I urge you to embrace the unexpected opportunities that come your way. You never know when a simple question could lead you to a life you never imagined.
As nurses, we talk a lot about saving lives. But in my case, it’s a little different—because nursing saved mine.