D.J. Brazelton, doctoral candidate in the Nurse Anesthesia program
Where are you from? Why did you choose to attend FSU Panama City?
I’m originally from Guntersville, Alabama, a Summertown known for its beautiful lake, fishing, and water sports. I chose to attend FSU’s nurse anesthesia program over competing programs primarily for its appreciation for academia and experienced leadership. Did being located near the beach influence my decision? Absolutely not… (-;
What inspired you to choose your degree program?
I think being a nurse anesthetist is the coolest job in the medical field. In addition to performing a variety of procedural skills, we safely administer anesthetics to keep the body from responding or remembering throughout the surgery., and we collaborate with a passionate team of other intelligent individuals. In addition to these, we still embrace the patient/nurse relationship as the CRNA does not leave the patient the entire case.
What has your experience been so far in the program?
Becoming a CRNA has been my ultimate career goal since learning about the profession in nursing school, so to be accepted into FSU's nurse anesthesia program has been a dream come true. It has been a constant learning and humbling experience. Nurse anesthetists have a lot more responsibility than most people realize, so I embrace the dedication it takes to be good at what we do.
What aspect of your area of study do you find most fascinating?
Pharmacology, without a doubt! We administer nearly every medication the patient receives during surgery, so it’s imperative we understand how these drugs work on a molecular level, what effect they have, and when they are indicated for the patient.
Who are the faculty or staff members that have helped or inspired you?
Dr. VanDyke for orchestrating such a competitive cohort of students, Dr. Hogan for his empathy and constant encouragement, Dr. Hodges for pushing us clinically and preparing us for the realities of our profession, and Dr. Stewart for his humor and having the heart of a teacher - his passion for anesthesia, hobbies, and his family not only inspire me, but it reinforces my decision to pursue this career.\
What do you like to do when you’re not doing schoolwork?
I enjoy taking my dog, Zeke, to play and hike, hanging with my family, going on the lake, being active (running, tennis, disc golf, cycling), and spending time with my supportive girlfriend.
After you graduate, what are your plans?
I’d like to gain experience in an academic hospital, participate on a medical mission trip, and then work domestic travel assignments before settling in a location relatively close to family.
What advice do you have for fellow students?
“A goal without a plan is just a wish” - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry