Career Center

Jenny Syverson

Jenny Syverson, Nursing ’10, has known what she wanted to do for a long time. During her recent Career Exploration at Children's Hospital in Minneapolis, Jenny found out just how difficult her chosen profession can be. Faced with he impossible task of assisting with the treatment of children suffering from various forms of cancer, Jenny's eyes opened to a world of suffering, pain, hope, and purpose. Undoubtedly, the most challenging aspect, Jenny says, "is dealing with the death of a child." Showing maturity beyond her years, Jenny worked with nurses, child life specialists, cancer researchers, social workers, music and physical therapists, radiologists, MD's, and families as they prepared for one of the most difficult challenges anyone may face: end of life care for a small child. What impressed Jenny the most was the level of professionalism, teamwork and, above all the care for patients she witnessed at Children's Hospital.

Upon meeting her, Jenny's positive attitude and upbeat manner are immediately apparent. Jenny's faith is strong and she is brimming with hope and optimism. This is all the more impressive as Jenny has been faced with her own health challenges throughout her young life. Not only has she learned to cope and remain strong, she has also found the additional strength to help others. Despite the sadness she witnessed at Children's Hospital, Jenny remains positive and confident in her ability to work in this challenging field.

During her Career Exploration, Jenny learned the importance of treating the whole patient, not just their physical condition. She considered the full emotional aspects of both patient and family in order to provide the best possible care. To do this, Jenny needed to establish the level of professionalism and develop the basic skills needed to serve in a children's cancer setting.

At Children's Hospital Jenny became emotionally attached to many of her patients. Including one three-year-old in particular who had endured several rounds of treatment and was simply not improving. After increasingly aggressive therapies and a painful roller coaster of emotions, she passed away in February. "I was so moved by little Anna. It's incredible how someone so little can have such a big impact." Jenny dealt with this sadness through poetry and songwriting, and prayer. Through this reflective process and sharing with other staff at the hospital, Jenny found the strength she needed to cope with unbearable sadness. By way of this creative and thoughtful outlet, Jenny was able to continue her work.

Jenny's decision to pursue a nursing career has been affirmed through this challenging, yet insightful Career Exploration. She was accepted into the nursing program in February and eagerly waits getting into the field to care for patients full time.

"I love helping people. It's my greatest passion in life."