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Stacy MacDonald explains that enrolling in Dal’s MN Nurse Practitioner (MN-NP) program was the best decision she has ever made.

Written by: Josey Houle, Dal Health freelance writer
Stacy MacDonald decided to pursue graduate education at Dal after spending over twenty years building a successful international career in paramedicine and nursing.

“Knowing I can do more and seeing the need, I applied for the Dal MN-NP program as it has an outstanding reputation. I have only trained with the best in the past and now because that’s the kind of provider I want to be.”

Originally accepted into Dal’s MN-NP program for 2021 entry, MacDonald put her studies on hold when her mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Fulfilling a promise that she made to her mother, MacDonald returned to school and graduated from the program this past May.

“I am finally doing what I feel I was always meant to do.”

Early steps

MacDonald’s professional journey began in Houston, Texas, where she received her paramedicine degree, completed a Paramedic-Registered Nurse transition program, and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Texas.

Upon receiving her BSN, MacDonald worked as a trauma nurse at the highly acclaimed Red Duke Trauma Institute at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center, which is the fourth busiest trauma center in the USA. MacDonald proceeded to work in emergency trauma nursing and flight nursing across the USA over a 17-year period.

Originally from Pictou, MacDonald eventually returned to Nova Scotia to complete her second BSN at St. Francis Xavier University, graduating in 2019. She proceeded to work alongside ‘incredible staff’ and her ‘second family’ in the Emergency Department at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, before enrolling at Dal.

“While I spent my career always learning, the decision to return to school at 49 was an easy one but not without contemplating about being too old to take on debt, too old to learn, too old to write papers and go to school with those 20 years younger than myself. I realized that I brought 20 years of experience and perspective when in groups for my classmates and my patients.”

Time at Dal and future plans

MacDonald treasures the close connections she has developed with students and faculty. While most of the MN-NP program’s coursework is completed online, this didn’t hinder MacDonald’s ability to find community at Dal.

“We somehow became each other’s champion, encouraging each other through all the tough days.”

While enrolled in the MN-NP program, MacDonald was excited to hear from her preceptor that Dal was setting her up for a bright future in nursing. She explains that faculty and staff provided her with never-ending support throughout her graduate studies. MacDonald maintains that those who are considering enrolling in the program can rest assured that they will “never feel alone” during their time at Dal.

“This program is intense and requires time and true dedication. Put the time and effort in and your transition to the new role will go well.”

Since completing her master’s degree, MacDonald has started in her new role as the first nurse practitioner (NP) at Aberdeen Hospital, as an Emergency Department NP. She is especially passionate about helping people who are experiencing mental health challenges, and hopes to work with unhoused populations and the local shelter in the near future.

“This is my dream come true. I get to honor my mother and help my rural community.”