WBL Internship: Nursing at Montrose Regional Health
The Colorado Department of Education defines "Professional" using the following descriptors:
time & work management
career literacy
grit and resilience
work ethic; dependable and reliable
In my opinion, being professional isn't just your ethic and management, its also the connections and attitude that you bring to your place of employment. By asking questions and being genuinely interested in your field will create the best environment in your desired profession. Having a good attitude will encourage your coworkers to talk to you and build that foundation of references to build your career. A good example of using connections would be reaching out for recommendations by keeping past employers in your contacts when looking to apply at future jobs.
Cameron Dillon
EMT/Fire Captain at Montrose Fire
Professional Job Interview
Interviewer: Olivia Dillon
Interviewee: Cameron Dillon EMT/Fire Captain
What inspired you to choose the medical field?
I found it very interesting and I like to problem solve, as well as I want to help people.
What is your favorite part of being an EMT?
You never know what you’re going to get.
What are some of the challenges that come with being in a medical profession?
Seeing bad things happen to good people and to see people unnecessarily suffer.
What are your first impressions of nursing?
It’s a necessary contribution to society as well as humanity.
How do nurses affect the smoothness of your job?
Very much so. We work hand in hand together. If we don’t do our job right, or they don’t do their job right, the patient can’t have the best experience possible.
Do you ever have bad experiences with nurses?
Yes, just them probably having a bad day.
What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and a regular registered nurse?
A nurse practitioner has a higher level of education, more skills like prescribing medications to patients.
Why did you end up pursuing a medical career?
I wanted to have the knowledge of being a paramedic to help to better save peoples lives.
What is the average salary of nursing in Montrose?
Around 80k?
How many times on an average call do you end up encountering nurses?
Often. Every shift almost.
I am working to get my nursing assistant certification at the Technical College of the Rockies to help aide me in my journey to becoming a Nurse. In fall of 2025, I will be starting college at University of Utah majoring in Nursing. After attending college and receiving my four year degree, I plan to go back to school and become a Nurse Practitioner.
My current work experience contains many jobs in my four years of high school. For the first three years, I was a lifeguard at the Montrose Recreational Center. During my time there, I also worked at a coffee shop for one and a half years. This shows my loyalty and hard work by maintaining employment.
Soft Skills I Focused On
Time Management
Self Motivation
Critical Thinking
Adaptability
Problem Solving
Empathy
Accountability
Communication
Confidence
Goals I set for myself:
Self Direction: Demonstrates initiative in managing personal learning and responsibilities; identifies opportunities for growth and pursues them proactively; maintains focus and commitment to achieving set objectives.
Leadership: Inspires and guides others by demonstrating accountability, initiative, and a willingness to contribute positively to the team.
Self Advocacy: Communicates personal goals and needs clearly; seeks feedback and opportunities to grow; takes ownership of professional development.