Lori Brauer, Verrazzano Class of 2022, completed major in Nursing
When
I first heard about the capstone requirement, I was fearful and my mind told me
to be grateful that it was so far away. As time moved on, I pushed the thought
out of my mind until I finally had to think about my topic. I felt lost and
clueless, until I finally decided to research what I knew about, nursing and
IBS. I have suffered from IBS and felt that I could benefit from researching
this topic and I could gain insight to improve my health while completing my
capstone. This was much easier said than done!
In my work as an undergraduate student, I had done research and small literature reviews, but never to the extent that this paper required, and I struggled mentally to bring myself to do it. On top of other stressors and responsibilities, my mind could not cope with completing such a large project, which led me to consider leaving the program at one point. It was then that I realized if I did not go through with this paper, then all the work I had done so far would have been all for nothing.
I continued with the research, which was long and grueling and took several drafts and revisions. Along the way, I learned more about myself, such as my weakness when it came to big projects, and the anxiety that I would experience. When things became too much, I had a difficult time working at an effective pace. I learned how to manage this anxiety by putting my tasks into smaller steps, so I could handle them each, one by one. This helped me look at the project as small assignments, rather than a huge capstone. I learned that if I put my mind to something, I could accomplish things that I felt were impossible. Once I had the right mindset, I was able to effectively manage my stress and work towards my goal. It was tough to accomplish, but I knew that my end goal was in sight, and I needed to push my limits.
I completed my capstone, something I was not sure I would be able to do. Pushing myself out of my comfort zone allowed me to learn more about myself and to accomplish my goals. I learned ways to improve my health, and I have implemented some of the strategies I found from my research.
Originally, I found it embarrassing to share that I have IBS and feared other people’s judgment. Looking at the research and the prevalence of IBS, I felt more comfortable sharing my story. I learned how much work goes into creating a literature review, and it helped me understand the meaning behind evidence-based practice, which is implemented constantly in nursing. I gained more insight on nursing research, which helped me understand the field and consider my future specialties.
Although I was an inexperienced researcher, with the help of my mentor, Dr. Farren, I felt I was able to write a professional piece of literature that could show evidence on IBS and interventions. Her time and guidance were essential to me overcoming roadblocks, and I am extremely thankful for her support. I can use this knowledge in my career when I have a patient with IBS, and it is my hope that the information from this paper can help others as it did for me. I am proud to say that I have finally completed my capstone and have graduated from the Verrazzano Honors program.
