Turning Life’s Challenges into Compassionate Nursing Care

When asked why she chose to return to school after working as a registered nurse, University of Saskatchewan (USask) Master of Nursing – Nurse Practitioner student Celeste Paquette (BSN'14, MN'20) gives an answer that beautifully reflects the motivation shared by many who pursue advanced nursing education.

"After years of bedside nursing as a registered nurse and providing clinical instruction to students, I wanted to influence care delivery at a higher level—helping patients navigate complex systems, while empowering them through education and prevention,” said Paquette.

She credits her undergraduate education and early nursing career with both deepening her empathy and expanding her understanding of healthcare as a complex ecosystem.

“My years at the bedside opened my eyes to the challenges faced by both patients and healthcare providers—the time constraints, emotional toll, and the moments when people simply need to be heard and seen for who they are, and where they are at in their journey toward health and wellbeing," said Paquette, adding her Catholic faith has been a driving force throughout her journey.

For Paquette, nursing is more than a career—it’s a vocation.

"The education I will complete in the nurse practitioner program will allow me to live that calling more fully by providing care that is both clinically competent and deeply human."

Paquette’s wisdom has been forged through both professional and personal experience.

During her second year of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at USask, her husband passed away suddenly. The compassion she received from classmates, faculty, and staff became a defining moment.

“Their kindness helped me turn one of the most difficult experiences of my life into a source of strength and empathy that continues to shape my daily encounters with patients.”

Since beginning her nurse practitioner journey, Paquette has faced further hardships including her father’s cancer diagnosis, the tragic loss of her son’s best friend, and the passing of her father-in-law. Each experience tested her resilience, but also deepened her belief in humanity at the core of nursing.

“They’ve reminded me of the deep humanity that underpins nursing—the privilege of supporting others through vulnerability, loss, and healing," said Paquette.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Paquette considers herself blessed, with her three children serving as constant reminders of the importance of balance and resilience.

"My children have been my greatest motivation to keep learning and growing; they’ve taught me that it’s possible to pursue your goals, while nurturing family life," she said.

Fueled by the inspiration her children provide, Paquette is showing them the breadth of opportunities a nursing career can offer.

Before entering the program, as a registered nurse, Paquette worked across diverse areas of nursing including obstetrics, pediatrics, oncology, public health, home care, and acute medicine. In addition, Paquette has served as a practical nursing instructor at Dumont Technical Institute and as a contract instructor for the USask BSN program.

Celeste Paquette's three children.
Credit: Submitted.

"Teaching and mentoring students has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career—it keeps me grounded in the foundations of nursing, while inspiring me to model critical thinking, compassion, and professional growth," said Paquette.

When reflecting on her decision to return to school to become a nurse practitioner (NP), Paquette highlights the role of the University of Saskatchewan in shaping her path.

"USask has a strong reputation for producing practice-ready nurse practitioners grounded in evidence, collaboration, and community engagement. As both a USask instructor and alumna, I’ve experienced firsthand the university’s commitment to mentorship, accessibility, and excellence in nursing education.”

For Paquette, the combination of the College of Nursing’s academic excellence and welcoming collegial environment has been a key reason she keeps returning.

She adds that she values the flexibility of the program’s distance-learning model, which has enabled her to continue teaching, while pursuing her studies.

Currently in her second year of the NP program, Paquette cites the real-world clinical experiences and guidance from preceptors and faculty as her most rewarding aspects so far.

"Collaborating with other NP students and healthcare providers has reminded me how strong nursing is when education, clinical skill, and advocacy align," said Paquette.

When her program is complete, Paquette plans to remain in Saskatchewan and practice primary care in a rural or semi-rural community. She has particular interests in pediatrics and end-of-life care, areas that require compassion, presence, and the ability to meet people where they are. She’s also excited to see how the role of nurse practitioners continues to evolve across the province.

"NPs bring a unique perspective to healthcare—one that blends the art of nursing with the science of medical diagnostics,” said Paquette.

“I see the NP role becoming an essential cornerstone of the healthcare system, improving access, collaboration, and holistic care for communities across Saskatchewan.”

Paquette offers guidance and encouragement to future NP students.

“Balancing graduate studies, work, and family is demanding, but absolutely achievable with structure, purpose, and perseverance. Manage your time wisely while giving yourself grace when life gets hectic, cultivate a supportive network of family, peers, and instructors, and always remember the passion that drew you to nursing in the first place.”

As she advances toward completion of her program, Paquette continues to embody the heart of nursing—grounded in compassion, strengthened by faith, and inspired by family.

“This program has transformed me, strengthening my voice as a clinician, educator, and advocate,” she said.

“I strive to bring the heart of nursing into every encounter—listening deeply, caring fully, and helping others find strength in their own story.”