Her Story
About Vicki
Vicki Hakeem is an experienced Registered Nurse and nurse educator with over 40 years in the field. She began her career after being encouraged to enroll in an LPN program following a divorce and went on to earn an associates degree from junior college, a BSN from a university, and an MSN from the University of Phoenix. After working as a floor nurse in areas including labor and delivery, OB, and med-surg, a car accident left her permanently disabled, leading her to transition into case management for 10 to 12 years, including travel nursing assignments. She later became a professor at Chattanooga State University, the University of Phoenix, and Chamberlain University, focusing on educating the next generation of nurses. Her career reflects a deep commitment to patient care and clinical education.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Vicki
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I think schools don't prepare students enough for the reality of stepping into the hospital on your own. They need to know it's a calling, not just because the money is good or you want to help people. Reality bites but it is what it is, and once you know the full gamut of what you're stepping into, you won't have as many nurses leaving the profession after 3 or 4 years.
02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A lot of nurses are leaving the profession after 3 or 4 years because they weren't prepared for the full scope including weekends, nights, holidays, and unexpected bad events. Burnout or it not being what they thought. But there are opportunities for leadership roles if you want it and put your mind to it.
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