Moving from Australia to Canada at the age of 53, to live and work as an internationally educated nurse (IEN) in the remote, regional location of Terrace, BC, has been one of the most enriching and positive experiences of my life. There really is something special about regional, remote nursing. It's the location as well as the professional experience. I highly recommend nursing in another country, particularly Canada!
My arrival to Terrace in late November 2024, coincided with the impressive, recent opening of Ksyen Regional Hospital. Encompassed by towering snowcapped mountains, stunning views can be enjoyed while driving around town or from hospital patient room windows. Even taking a scheduled break in the tearoom feels therapeutic when glancing out at the beautiful scenery. I can't think of anywhere else that offers such breathtaking views for nurses while they work.
This robust valley town is a very underrated location and a great place for anyone wanting to get the most out of their life and career. In my opinion, Terrace is a refreshing haven away from the chaos and overcrowding of city living. I am slowly gaining experience with the array of seasonal outdoor activities that include fishing in the internationally recognized Skeena River, ice skating, skiing at Shames Mountain, snow sledding, hunting, hiking, camping, swimming, and kayaking.
Coming from a hot, dry country, I enjoy everything winter. I have developed a fascination for the white powder snow, the old growth forests with their moss-covered trees and forest floors, not to mention the clear watered rivers, white-capped mountains and Narnia-like icicles found hanging from frozen waterfalls. While hunting seems to be the popular sport here, my ultimate experience is to hunt and shoot with my trusty mobile phone camera.
Since leaving Australia, my time spent here has been personally and professionally enriching, rewarding, awesome, and fun. To some, being a nurse and moving countries may not be an easy feat, but as they say, “no pain, no growth”! As with anything you aim for in life, embrace it with positivity, passion, perseverance and integrity.
Having almost worked through the mandatory (provincial) licensure hurdles, this comes with a sense of accomplishment, and I’m feeling more settled and positive about the future. The daily interactions and connections with my colleagues and the patients are mutually enjoyable and beneficial, because they are all interested to know how I came to work here and similarly, I enjoy learning about them and what they can tell me about their life in Canada.
My first six months in Canada as an IEN, as I adapted to the nursing system here, has been transformative and rewarding. As the nursing profession continues to evolve, shaped by a rapidly changing world, we are obliged as nurses to continually adapt and stay abreast of new technologies, evidence in science and health care, practicing to the highest standards, protocols, and laws. I am grateful for the career development, high quality education, and learning opportunities available here.
The education and licensing process so far has been both humbling and very beneficial, allowing me to consolidate and build on previous knowledge and qualifications. I have just completed a post anesthetic care unit (PACU) specialty education program and still have a couple of hurdles to complete, but I’m almost there. During this time, I have felt supported and included as an integral member of the team. I consider myself very fortunate to have been given this opportunity and to be working in this modern new hospital with a talented multidisciplinary team of health care professionals.
From what I have gained in the short time that I’ve been here, I look forward to the ultimate reward and satisfaction of giving back, through the expertise, skills, and knowledge that I have gained in my nursing career so far. That's gold! Living and working here in this beautiful place with an amazing community is what I call getting the most out of life and work!
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