Rialie Fenske, a radiologic tech at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, is one step closer to her dream of becoming a nurse with help from Mayo Clinic's Career Investment Program. She shares what the program has meant for her.

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Rialie Fenske started her career at Mayo Clinic as a certified nursing assistant in 2015, and went on to become a CT technologist. But something kept drawing her back to nursing. Now, with the help of Mayo Clinic's Career Investment Program, she is one step closer to her dream of becoming a nurse.

The Career Investment Program is designed to help staff build new skills and advance their careers in critical roles that align with organizational needs and advance the 2030 "Bold. Forward." strategic plan.

In this Q&A, Fenske shares what the Career Investment Program has meant for her.

How did you learn about the Career Investment Program?

FENSKE: I searched around the Mayo intranet to see what was offered for career advancement, and that's how I found the Career Investment Program.

I was going to apply earlier, but the timing didn't work out with my personal schedule and having to take my board exams, so I waited a little longer. Finally, while working the night shift, I decided to give it a shot and applied.

What inspired you to pursue nursing?

FENSKE: When I started at Mayo, I was a certified nursing assistant and uncertain as to what I wanted to do careerwise. But I knew it was something in health care. After my role as a certified nursing assistant, I became a personal care assistant. I have worked in the dementia unit at the Charter House, Joseph Building 3B at Saint Marys, a general medical floor, and pediatric ICU. Moving through different units allowed me to experience hands-on areas that I may have never ventured into.

While I do enjoy working in Radiology, I may want to end up in the Pediatric ICU ultimately. The Career Investment Program gives me an opportunity to explore other paths that align with my passion for helping others. Because I absolutely love patient care, I have decided to pursue nursing again.

What does the Career Investment Program opportunity mean for you, as well as your career and life?

FENSKE: It is a big honor to be accepted into the Career Investment Program. It removes a lot of pressure because the financial aspect can be very stressful. Having that off my plate allows me to focus on the program's studies, rather than juggling tuition and schoolwork simultaneously.

On completion of the program, what specialty area do you want to work in? What draws you to that area?

FENSKE: I am interested in going back to the pediatric ICU because I really enjoyed my time in that area. However, I also want to keep an open mind while going through my clinicals. That way, I can see all areas and decide once I graduate.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

FENSKE: I am very appreciative just to be in this position and have this opportunity. I will have to get accepted into a nursing program, but I am extremely appreciative to have this opportunity.

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