Alumni Spotlight: Kristan Best ’15

Alumni Spotlight: Kristan Best ’15

What year(s) did you graduate from Barry University?

2015

What degree did you earn? 

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

In a nutshell, what do you do?

I am a registered nurse working in the Surgical ICU at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami

What are you working on right now?

I am currently enrolled in Barry University's master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner program. Additionally, I am working on policy reform with the State of Florida.

Why do you love what you do?

My job is difficult, stressful, and I hardly ever get a moment to breathe. I remember why I entered this profession in the first place, and it was because the knowledge of science and research were unified with the skill of patience and caring.

The work that I do is amazing and the people that I work with are my family. All my co-workers think the same way and work as an intensive care unit to make sure our patients get the most up-to-date care they deserve.

How did Barry University help you get there?

During my undergraduate program at Barry, I had a rotation through the Surgical ICU at Jackson Memorial Hospital. I loved it so much that I asked to rotate through the following semester. Through the art of networking I was welcomed into the internship the unit provides upon graduation and passing of the state boards.

Additionally, while I was an undergraduate student, I was voted in as the class president. This leadership role allowed me to create and propose a resolution in Phoenix, Ariz., at the National Student Nurses Convention in 2015. The resolution passed, and I knew I would want to do something in politics someday.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I will be graduating in May 2019 from Barry University with a Master of Science in Nursing and will be excited to sit for my boards shortly after. Thanks to Barry University I have been able to achieve my dreams of loving what I do and making a difference in the world.

Thanks to Barry University I have been able to achieve my dreams of loving what I do and making a difference in the world.