Nicole Kistler, 24, is a 2013 graduate of Fishers High School. Kistler studied nursing at Purdue University and is now a registered nurse in the Surgical and Liver ICU at Houston Methodist Hospital in Texas.
Q: What was your favorite subject in high school and why?
A: I really enjoyed math while in high school because it was one of my best subjects, which is ironic because my current profession does not involve a ton of math.
Q: Who has been your most influential teacher?
A: I had many influential teachers through school, and I believe I was able to achieve so much while in school because each teacher truly wanted to see you do well and succeed. Most notably, Mrs. O’Haver and Mrs. Deal, the Fishers High School nurses, were very influential and encouraging when I was debating whether or not to go to nursing school.
Q: What do you miss about high school?
A: I miss going to football games on Friday evenings and then going to Steak ‘n Shake with my friends afterward.
Q: Can you tell me about your collegiate experiences?
A: While in school, I was a member of Alpha Chi Omega, worked as a peer consultant for the Center for Career Opportunities, was president of the Nursing Student Council, participated in the Purdue Relay for Life, and served as a host for the Old Master’s Program. I also had the amazing opportunity to study abroad two different summers, in Italy and Ireland, and worked in Houston for an internship prior to my senior year of college, which is ultimately where I ended up accepting a job post-graduation.
Q: Why did you choose nursing?
A: I really was unsure of what major to go into during my senior year of high school. All I knew is that I wanted to help people and be in the medical field. After talking to many people in different areas of the medical field, I chose nursing because of the ability to interact and build relationships with my patients. It is also one of the most versatile careers in the medical field and allowed me the opportunity to explore multiple areas while in school before deciding which direction I wanted to start my career.
Q: What’s your dream job?
A: My ultimate dream is to be able to continue to work and help make a difference in the lives of others. Currently, I’m unsure in which direction that will lead me down the road, but I have plenty of doors open for the future once I gain more experience within my field.
Q: Do you have any advice for younger students?
A: Get involved while in school and take advantage of every opportunity you are given. Even when you fail, don’t stop trying because every experience you have will help prepare you for the next. Also, travel as much and as often as you are able to because it will make you a more empathetic and well-rounded individual.
