Sarah Quick’s journey in nursing is a story of dedication, resilience, and leadership. Throughout her path, Sarah faced the demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, pursued her nursing degree, and found her stride in leadership within the Student Nurse Association of Illinois (SNAI). Rising from Vice President to President, she discovered her passion for connecting nursing students, fostering community, and providing mentorship. Through each milestone, Sarah exemplifies the power of stepping forward, finding purpose, and embracing leadership within the nursing field. Her journey inspires others to seize opportunities, build connections, and continuously grow in service to others.
Following Familial Footsteps: Getting Started in Healthcare
Sarah was inspired to pursue the healthcare profession by her mother, who ran her own doctor’s office in their hometown.
“Seeing her run her own business and dedicate herself to helping others made a big impression on me.”
Following her mother’s example, Sarah began working in healthcare early on, starting with a CNA certification in high school.
Sarah started her nursing career as a senior in high school through the Department of Veteran Affairs, serving there since 2013. In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Sarah felt the calling to help in any way she could and volunteered to work in a COVID unit. “Everyone in my family has had COVID, but somehow, I never did,” she said. “I just wanted to do my part.”
Committing to helping people during the pandemic wasn’t Sarah’s only achievement. She also started her nursing program. Graduating in May of 2024, she then went on to pass her board certification in July.
Seizing Opportunities: Becoming a Leader Through SNAI
Sarah has always had a passion for volunteering. In 2022, she was encouraged by a professor to join her local Student Nurse Association of Illinois (SNAI). Joining the organization wasn’t enough for Sarah however, she also had an interest in becoming a part of SNAI’s Board of Directors. Sarah became the Vice President of SNAI. Joining this organization and becoming a part of the leadership was a pivotal moment for her career.
“SNAI is huge,” Sarah emphasizes. “It gives students an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and understand they’re not alone.”
SNAI was founded in 1950 and is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the professional development of nursing students. SNAI offers a support network for nursing students across Illinois for career development and advancement, as well as mentorship and the message that you are not alone in your journey.
In 2023, Sarah became the President of SNAI. As president, she helped organize events for student nurses like Student Nurse Political Action Day and got to work closely with ANA-Illinois. She took an active role in connecting nursing students across Illinois.
“I got to meet students from all over, and it was so rewarding to help them see the bigger picture of nursing,” she shared.
By organizing educational opportunities, volunteer activities, and conventions, Sarah and her team worked to give students tools for success. “SNAI helped me grow as a leader, and I’m so grateful for that.”
“You Are Not Alone” – The Value of SNAI
For Sarah, the value of SNAI is clear: it provides nursing students with a vital network, professional guidance, and experiences that prepare them for the future.
“You’re not going through this alone,” Sarah explained. “SNAI offers a sense of community and the chance to connect with other students facing the same challenges.”
Events like Student Nurse Political Action Day were instrumental in fostering these connections. Sarah also championed the importance of certifications, such as Stop the Bleed and disaster relief training through the Red Cross.
“These certifications are invaluable,” she said. “They give students a chance to develop skills they’ll use throughout their careers.” Through these efforts, Sarah aimed to enrich the student experience and instill confidence in new nurses.
Next Steps: ANA-Illinois Board of Directors
Recently, Sarah made another monumental decision for her leadership career. She joined the ANA-Illinois Board of Directors in the New Graduate Position.
Sarah was inspired to take on this role because of her previous experience working with ANA-Illinois through SNAI.
“When I was part of the Student Nursing association, they (ANA-IL mentors) made me want to join ANA. My ANA-Illinois mentors are such motivational people, and they help with everything. I could call them in the middle of the night and be like, ‘hey, I don’t know this on my homework, or I have a question about this at my next event, what do I do?’ And they’ll answer me back.”
Her primary goal is to support nurses as they transition from school to the workforce. “It’s a big adjustment,” she said. “I hope to make it easier for new grads by listening to their needs and advocating on their behalf.”
As this is a new position for ANA-Illinois, Sarah has the unique opportunity to mold the role and provide the best advocacy for other new nursing graduates. She is excited about the opportunity to address challenges facing new nurses and contribute fresh perspectives.
“I want to see new grads succeed and feel prepared. It’s a challenging time, and I hope to play a part in easing that transition.”
Embrace Every Opportunity
Looking back, Sarah’s advice to nurses considering leadership roles is simple: “Just do it. You may not know what to expect, but it’s worth it. Nursing is all about learning and growing.”
She encourages new nurses to get involved with organizations like SNAI and ANA-Illinois. “You’ll gain so much from the experience. These organizations offer community, resources, and opportunities you won’t find elsewhere.”
Sarah Quick’s story is one of dedication and leadership. Her journey from SNAI President to New Graduate Chair on the ANA-Illinois Board of Directors exemplifies her passion for nursing and her commitment to helping others. For those interested in joining ANA-Illinois, Sarah’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact one can have by stepping forward and embracing opportunities to lead.
Join ANA-Illinois today and discover a world of opportunities to help advance your career!
