Empowering Women: Celebrating International Women's Month | Jessica Hall

March 13, 2023

By: Angela White

Jessica Hall

NICU Nurse

Q. How did you get into your healthcare field/What made you interested in it?

A: I got really interested in the healthcare field when my grandmother, who was raising me at the time, became sick. I loved taking care of her through the end of her life, even if the only medical skills I had at nine years old were hugs and kisses! Simply put, I loved being a caregiver growing up. I knew I wanted a big family with lots of kids and to work as either a doctor or a nurse. As cliche as it sounds, I really did feel like it was my calling. When you know, you know!

Q: What has been your biggest challenge to overcome?

A: I definitely think my biggest challenge as a nurse is leaving work at work and not taking it home with me. I feel I can get very emotionally invested in my patients and it’s such a struggle not to carry it home with me when you see a patient pass or you see a lot of sadness that shift. It’s hard seeing young parents on ventilators or various traumas and tragedies during work, and it’s hard not to bring it home with you. My husband is also a nurse and we have established boundaries for how much we’ll talk about work things which I feel is so healthy! We also understand and support each other when we need space or need to talk about it. 

Q: How is being a working mom in the medical field? 

A: It can be extremely difficult! Good work-life balance is essential to prevent healthcare burnout. Working long shifts can be exhausting and it can carry into the next day. A lot of people think we only work three days but sometimes I’m struggling on my day off because I simply just need to catch up on sleep or take a mental break. With time, you learn how to manage this all better. I now give myself breaks, food prep, and ask for help when I need it. It’s also difficult when you're breastfeeding and working long shifts. You have to learn how to advocate for yourself to take your pump breaks! You have to step aside and chug water so your supply doesn’t drop. My husband is the best partner I could ask for and it makes all the difference! For example, I switched over to PRN after having a baby because I felt I wanted to be home more with the kids and he completely understood that. Nursing is great because the flexibility can be endless! You can drop and add hours very easily!

Q: Do you have any women mentors or women who have been an inspiration in your life? 

A: I actually didn’t grow up with a lot of strong woman mentors in my life. I had a difficult childhood and was raised by many people. The closest mentor I had was my aunt who raised me for many years. She was a single mother and she managed a home, work, and took in a child that was not her own. She was fierce, independent, and kind. I am who I am today because of her. My aunt always told me to never apologize for being a strong woman. I hope to pass my strength down to my daughter. 

Q: How has being a woman impacted your career OR what does being a women in healthcare mean to you?

A: Being a woman in healthcare means I get to bring my natural nurturing instincts with me to work to help aid in healing others. I feel proud to be a woman in this field. Woman have strong instincts, are incredible at multitasking, and are so caring and compassionate!

Q: What advice would you give to other women who want to go into your field?

A: I would let her know that you can be a successful career-driven woman, reach all of your personal goals, and also be an amazing mother. Yes, there may be times where you miss parties or holidays, but it is so rewarding knowing you’re making a difference! My babies know I have such a special job and that I help make people feel better 🥰 My son called me a hero all through the pandemic. There are so many different jobs and pathways you can take in the healthcare field that you will have no problem finding one that works best for you!