Meet Cindy Wilk, Ph.D. APRN-CNS, CCRN, CNE, Kent State University College of Nursing professor and adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist (AGCNS) concentration coordinator. Wilk’s desire to acquire the skills needed to become a nurse scientist and researcher set her down the path to pursue her Ph.D. in Nursing. As a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Wilk already had a strong working knowledge of evidence-based practice and believed learning the techniques required to generate new knowledge would be an advantage to her long-term career.
Q: Cindy, what attracted you to teaching at Kent State?
A: The reputation of the College of Nursing attracted me to Kent State University with over 50 years as a College of Nursing.
Q: Why did you choose this research topic?
A: Working in the ICU, and being a family member of an ICU patient myself, I realized the helplessness that family members often feel during this difficult time and wanted to discover strategies to empower them and assist them to feel helpful.
Q: What advice do you have for anyone thinking about a doctorate?
A: While it is a huge time commitment, achieving it is gratifying and fulfilling. Talk with doctorally prepared mentors to discuss the best route for you (PhD or DNP). Take it one small step at a time. Looking at the big picture can be overwhelming, but breaking it down to one semester and one accomplishment at a time makes it more manageable.
Are you interested in earning your Ph.D. in Nursing?
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Hansen, Ph.D. Program Director to learn more about the role of the nurse scientist, our curriculum and faculty research!
