UArizona Nursing Student Jordan Curry Discusses Health Equity and the Importance of Native American Heritage Month
Nov. 15, 2021
Hailing from Farmington, New Mexico, University of Arizona College of Nursing Bachelor of Science in Integrative Health (BSN-IH) Level 3 student Jordan Curry grew up in a rural area on the edge of the Navajo Reservation. Backed by a passion for the hard sciences and a strong interest in nurturing all aspects of a patient’s life, Curry is driven by compassion, curiosity and a belief in the importance of inclusivity throughout the health care field.
“Native American Heritage Month makes me think of my grandparents and how strong they are. It makes me proud to be a part of such a resilient heritage," ~ Jordan Curry, Level 3 BSN-IH student
Tell us about your educational journey to the University of Arizona and why you’ve chosen nursing as a career.
During my college studies, I developed a passion for anatomy, cellular biology, and biochemistry. Anything involved with how the body functions was fascinating to me. I had opportunities to shadow nurses in my hometown and was inspired by the organization, attentiveness to care, and overall compassion-driven work the nurses displayed. I am grateful that my journey led me to the University of Arizona where I can take pride in the rich history and inclusivity the College of Nursing demonstrates.
What appeals to you most about the BSN-IH program?
The BSN-IH program focuses on each patient as a whole—mind, body, and spirit. We are taught to consider all aspects of a patient’s life before providing them with care. Finding a personalized treatment modality for each patient is crucial for delivering the highest level of care.
As a student, who have your biggest role models been?
In the BSN-IH program, I’ve been privileged to attend clinical rotations throughout the Valley where I have seen how strong nurses are. I have learned from each of the nurses I have encountered. Of course, my parents always keep me grounded as they bring a patient-minded aspect to my studies. I also aspire to one day be as positive as our program director, Dr. Betty Parisek.
How important it is for patients to see themselves in their healthcare providers and as members of their communities?
It is important for patients to see themselves in their health care providers to feel safety, respect, and comfort in care. Likewise, as a health care provider, it is important to understand that making a patient comfortable is a priority. It is also important for patients to see themselves as members of their communities to feel a sense of belonging. There is value in understanding that all individuals struggle but can overcome their struggles with proper support.
What does Native American Heritage Month mean to you?
Grandparents. Resiliency. Native American Heritage Month makes me think of my grandparents and how strong they are. It makes me proud to be a part of such a resilient heritage. I feel honored that it is not just one month, but every day, that I get to carry on my heritage.
What does it mean to you to be a Wildcat Nurse?
To be a Wildcat Nurse means to be a part of a deeply rooted history. It means being taught not only how to embrace community but how demonstrate adaptability, leadership, and inclusivity in efforts to push healthcare forward.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future are to experience many aspects of nursing and find a specialty that is a good fit for me. I hope to be mindful and present with each patient in order to provide the highest quality of care for their mind, body, and spirit