Alumni Advisory Council member and proud alum Melanie Pan, Bachelor of Science in Nursing ’19, says she’s excited to give back to MacEwan – and to the newest wave of nursing students. 

When did you know nursing was your calling?

Growing up, I was always drawn to the sciences. Volunteering as a recreational aide at St. Joseph’s Hospital sparked my love for human connection and when I realized I was being called to help others. 

In high school, a conversation with a nurse who graduated from MacEwan started me on a path to pursue nursing. It’s amazing to see that journey come full circle with my new role on council.

You say that making a difference is what keeps you going in such a challenging field. What else?

In the cardiac intensive care unit at the Mazankowski, I have a supportive work environment, where I can confidently advocate for my patients and feel like a valued member of our interdisciplinary team.

Despite the amount of illness and tragedy we see on the job – there is also recovery, stories of gratitude, humour and love. 

What do you love most about the other work you do – as a preceptor to fourth-year students on your unit and as a clinical instructor at the University of Alberta?

In both roles, I strive to empathize with all my students, recalling my own experiences as a novice nurse. 

In teaching, you step back and guide from a distance, allowing for curiosity, reflection and critical thinking. I love making unfamiliar concepts “‘click”’ for students in a way they can understand and successfully apply to their own practice. Watching a hesitant student develop their voice and grow into their skin with confidence is beyond rewarding. 

Work-life balance and investing in self-care are very important to you? 

You can’t take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself! I love coming home after a long day to my dog Finn. She finds joy in everything! 

I try to make the most of my spare time exploring new trails with her, road tripping, and learning new hobbies like pickle ball and pottery. But you can also find me at home indulging in a new show! Having a partner who also works in health care is helpful – we can relate to one another. 

What inspired you to join the Alumni Advisory Council?

I would have liked to be more involved when I was going to school. So, when I saw the recruitment ad on the monthly e-newsletter, I knew it was a sign to apply! 

MacEwan has opened many doors for me. From the life-long friendships I have made to the professors who have supported my journey, all of these experiences have played a role in shaping my self-identity. 

What do you hope to accomplish as part of the AAC? 

My goal is to encourage alumni to share their MacEwan pride through engagement with the school. I aim to reconnect with my own network of alumni to speak with current students, faculty or each other to support collective success beyond graduation.