Elizabeth Mastoros, '23, is a Labor and Delivery Registered Nurse at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, MD. She shares her experiences at Catholic University here.
Briefly describe your responsibilities.
"As a L&D nurse, I get to be with families during one of the most beautiful moments life can offer! Many of my responsibilities include monitoring moms and their babies before, during, and after labor."
How did your Conway School and Catholic University education help you find this career path?
"My Catholic University and Conway School education actually helped connect me with my job! I applied for my senior practicum to be in labor and delivery because I knew it was my passion, but was not sure where I wanted the experience to be. Thankfully, they matched me with Holy Cross. From there, everything just worked out so perfectly and led to a job offer!"
What activities were you involved in during undergrad?
"I was very involved on campus as an undergrad. I was a member of our Student Nurses' Association but also branched out into many non-nursing clubs and activities. I gave tours as an Admissions Fellow in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, served as a member of the President’s Society, rallied for life with our Cardinals for Life, and was a PEER mentor."
What were some highlights of your time at Catholic University?
"It’s so hard to narrow down a few highlights because I look back at all 4 years at Catholic University so fondly! My freshman year 'Metro Madness' event sticks out immediately as the first moment I felt at home on campus. Cheering for our football team was also a great way to spend our Saturdays. The Blessing of the Hands ceremony for junior nursing students was also such a proud moment for me."
What advice do you have for students during their job search?
"Don’t be afraid to apply all over and apply for the specialty you are passionate about. I knew from the moment I started at Catholic that I wanted to be a labor and delivery nurse and I was always encouraged to follow that dream from the Conway faculty and staff. While starting in a specialty has many challenges, if you have the passion and are surrounded by a group of colleagues who support you, the experience will be worthwhile!"