Muskegon's Nursing Extern Program: Good and Meaningful Work

In some ways, Raegan Lockhart, 22, was destined to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Her mother is a hospice nurse whose “meaningful and compassionate work” opened Raegan’s eyes to see the value of the nursing profession.

In addition, Raegan said, “I have always been interested in health care and I’m amazed by the human body.” So, when it was time to consider a career, Raegan chose the nursing program at Muskegon Community College. “Nursing school was very hard,” she said, “but I enjoyed it. It also confirmed my purpose.”

Why Trinity Health Muskegon?

Following graduation, one reason Raegan chose to begin her career at Trinity Health Muskegon was due to her positive experience during her nursing externship. She was motivated to complete the externship because she wanted more experience in the hospital beyond the clinical hours offered in nursing school.

In January 2023, Raegan began the Trinity Health Muskegon paid RN extern program, which she participated in while attending nursing school. Raegan began in the Progressive Care Unit and loved it. In May, she transitioned into the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to align with her interests in ICU nursing.

“I felt like the staff and management I worked with during my externship were advocates for me,” she said. “The externship allowed me to see more of the role of nurses — how they communicate with patients and all they manage on the screen and in the patient’s room.

“I have had many instructors at the hospital who do an exceptional job. I am thankful to have had such great role models.”

Another reason Raegan chose Trinity Health Muskegon is more personal. “I love my community. Muskegon is where I was raised,” she said. “I plan to live here my whole life, and I want to give back.”

Near the end of her externship and graduation from nursing school, Raegan was offered a full-time position in the ICU. “That was an opportunity I didn’t want to pass up,” she added.

Trinity Health’s Culture

“Knowing the heart of an organization has Christian values is very important to me,” Raegan shared. “The people I worked with during my externship were very compassionate, and some were very selfless.”

Raegan offered an important message to nursing students. “I encourage fellow nursing students to not lose heart and to continue working hard — to remember that even if their days seem unbearably overwhelming that they are preparing to do good and meaningful work for others.”

If you are looking for good and meaningful work in the nursing profession, learn how you can find a career at Trinity Health Michigan.