Nicole Horton

Tell us why you became a teacher

As a nurse in the float pool at Cincinnati Children's for years, it began to take a toll on me. After starting to have children, dealing with the death in the ICUs there was more than I could handle. In an attempt to see a happier side of nursing, I took a job as a clinical instructor, taking nursing students on the unit to learn how to be nurses. I loved it so much it became my new passion!! I've been teaching full time for 12 years now and have loved every minute!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A student who was an immigrant struggled with testing because English was her second language. She tried so hard, and I could tell by speaking to her that she was so intelligent, but the tests were hard for her! I met with her weekly for months, reviewing content and how questions are asked, sharing resources, and giving her a sounding board when she was frustrated. I was so proud when she graduated, passed NCLEX on her first try, and accepted a job at the same hospital where I started!

What would you do with the $25,000?

First, I would buy materials for my classes. I love to use creative teaching strategies, but the materials can get expensive! I would use the rest to pay off my debt. My oldest was diagnosed with ESES in first grade and had very significant medical needs for years. Even though he's now cured and healthy, times are tight because of all the debt we incurred when he was sick. It would be so nice to not have this hanging over my head!