Student Speaker Profile: Samantha Loper, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program

Samantha Loper has been working as a registered nurse for over six years in trauma, psychiatric, med-surg, and pediatric units. In 2020, she decided to pursue her master's degree in the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program to further strengthen her skills as a nurse.

Loper aims to support her patients by leaving a positive impact on their lives. Additionally, she hopes to inspire and guide future generations of nurses.

“Medicine has always been an interest of mine, along with the desire to leave a positive impact on the lives of others. There have been numerous patients along the way that inspire me each and every day both professionally and in my personal life as well,” Loper said. “I am grateful for the opportunities this profession has presented me with, and I truly could not think of a more rewarding path.”

What made the UR School of Nursing stand out when you were considering continuing your education?

The University of Rochester’s School of Nursing stood out to me for their commitment to focus on diversity and inclusion, their simulation labs, community outreach, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With all of these program assets and integration of knowledge, it has helped prepare a well-rounded cohort of graduates.

What have you enjoyed the most about your experience at the School of Nursing?

I have enjoyed the hands-on skills labs where we learned a variety of skills such as suturing, arterial line placement, central line placement, as well as how to place chest tubes. OSCE simulation days, as well as the simulations with the students in the accelerated program, were also a highlight of my time here. 

Which faculty, staff, preceptors, or other members of the School community have impacted you in your time here and why?

Nate Maggio and Edisa Andelija were my first preceptors during my clinical rotations. They helped guide me and instilled the provider mindset. Laura Ogele was my preceptor on 43400 during the Fall 2023 semester. Her commitment and passion for teaching others made me excited for every clinical day with her! Matthew Traub on the Burn Trauma ICU helped to build my confidence and independent thinking as a future provider in the critical care setting. Each of them played a pivotal role in my experience in this program. 

What are you looking forward to most post-graduation?

I am looking forward to starting as a nurse practitioner with the cardiac surgery team here at Strong Memorial in the fall! Until then, I will continue to work with Mercy Flight Western as a flight nurse and will also pick up some bedside shifts in the cardiac ICU. 

What are your favorite things about Rochester? What places would you recommend to someone who’s new in town?

I love the summers here in Rochester! I love running on the Fairport Canal, riding my horse Zoee in the Mendon Ponds area, and exploring local hiking spots. My best friend, Lilly, showed me Java’s Coffee and Grimes Glen when I first moved to Rochester, and those continue to be personal favorites I always return to.