Meet Michael Rodin
My name is Michael Rodin, a Practical Nursing student and Nursing Extern based in Peterborough, Ontario. Before entering healthcare, my work centered around helping individuals overcome personal and social challenges—supporting those with mental health conditions, physical disabilities, and individuals transitioning back into the community after incarceration. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the connection between access, dignity, and overall health.
I also come from a background in business management, where I founded and operated a custom furniture company. Managing a team taught me discipline, leadership, and communication—skills that now inform my nursing practice. When a loved one required daily care, my perspective shifted. What began as an act of family support evolved into a professional commitment to compassionate, person-centered care.
Why I Chose Nursing
My motivation to pursue nursing comes from seeing firsthand the power of empathy and the impact of presence. I’ve watched how genuine compassion can calm fear and restore trust during moments of vulnerability. These experiences taught me that healthcare extends beyond treatment—it’s about connection, respect, and the human spirit.
Nursing challenges me to bring together both intellect and empathy. Each patient interaction is a chance to create safety, ease pain, and promote dignity. For me, nursing is not simply a career—it’s a meaningful act of service rooted in purpose and respect.
The Nurse I’m Becoming
I strive to become a competent, confident, and compassionate nurse who advocates for fairness and equitable care. My focus is on supporting diverse and vulnerable populations—those facing chronic illness, mental health challenges, or barriers to accessing care.
I aim to serve as a bridge:
- • Between patients and healthcare systems
- • Between communication and understanding
- • Between illness and recovery
Whether in a hospital, community, or leadership role, my goal is to foster a culture of trust, teamwork, and holistic healing.
My Commitment to Care
I hold myself to a high standard of professionalism, clinical excellence, and lifelong learning. My nursing philosophy is grounded in five core principles:
- Intentional Listening — hearing stories, not just symptoms.
- Patient Advocacy — ensuring every voice is respected and valued.
- Collaboration — fostering teamwork for safer, more effective outcomes.
- Integrity — practicing with empathy, ethics, and accountability.
- Continuous Growth — reflecting, learning, and improving every day.
My mission is to not only treat illness but to help others rebuild resilience, restore confidence, and rediscover hope.
My Path Forward
During my current placement at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), I’ve set two clear goals to strengthen my professional practice and clinical judgment:
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✨ Goal 1: Enhance Therapeutic Communication and Confidence
Engage in meaningful therapeutic interactions each shift to foster trust and support emotional well-being. Reflect weekly on communication strategies to strengthen empathy and professional confidence. -
💡 Goal 2: Develop Clinical Decision-Making and Accountability
Take an active role in patient care planning and regularly review care plans with my preceptor. These reflections strengthen my ability to prioritize, analyze, and provide safe, evidence-based care.