Meet Nurse Educator Shelby Estabrooks (‘15)
Can you tell us about your background in nursing and what inspired you to pursue this career?
I’ve had an interest in medicine since high school and pursued a few different careers in medicine before landing in nursing. I completed a Bachelor of Science with honours in biochemistry at Mount Allison because I wanted to understand how the physiology worked at the molecular level. After graduating with my Bachelor of Science, I completed my Bachelor of Nursing degree at UNB’s Moncton campus. During nursing school, I had an interest in primary healthcare but was also drawn to the excitement of the operating room.
After graduating, an opportunity to complete a post-grad perioperative program was presented, and I started my career in the operating room. I have worked in various operating room settings for the last several years, most recently at the Moncton Hospital. I became specialized in neurosurgery and got to be involved in initiatives such as Deep Brain Stimulation for patients with Parkinson’s. When I saw the posting for the Registered Nurse Educator at Mount Allison University, I jumped at the opportunity to pursue my interest in primary health care, specifically in an environment that promotes preventative health and education to young adults.
What previous roles or experiences have prepared you for working with students at Mount Allison?
I am a proud Mount Allision alumnus graduating with a Bachelor of Science in 2015. The campus feels very familiar to me. My background in nursing has also provided me experience working with populations including young adults, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and students. I also have experience with adult learners from when I was a teaching assistant at Mount Allison, through my nursing career teaching new staff, and helping preceptor nursing students.
What excites you most about being part of the Mount Allison community?
Even as a student, I have always been impressed with how inclusive and accessible the Mount Allison community is. I feel confident that students have the support systems here on campus to help them succeed in their academic pursuits. I am excited to be involved in providing healthcare to students at Mount Allison to help them thrive.
Are there any specific health initiatives or programs at Mount Allison that you’re looking forward to being involved in?
I am looking forward to bringing back STI screening to the Wellness Centre and collaborating with the MASU to bring back initiatives such as Cup 4 Cup.
How will you collaborate with other departments, staff, or student groups to promote health and wellness on campus?
I will be working very closely with the rest of the Wellness Centre team, as well as collaborating with other student services such as the MASU and the Meighen Centre. I strive to provide a holistic health approach to students. I am looking forward to connecting with various departments such as Spiritual Care, Residence Life, the International Centre, and more.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time or as a hobby outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my family and going outside for walks with them. I like to relax with a book cozied up at home, or with a coffee and treat at a café. I just recently moved to Sackville, so I will be interested in getting involved in community events and groups.
How can students book an appointment or reach out for advice?
To book an appointment, students can call the Medical Administrative Assistant at 506-364-2163, book online, or email wellness@mta.ca.
The Medical Administrative Assistant can help students navigate where to seek medical attention if the services they require are not offered by the Registered Nurse Educator.
Please note, the Wellness Centre is not an urgent care centre. If students require emergency services, they should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency centre.
What are your hours of availability for students?
Appointments are available Monday to Friday 9 a.m.–4 p.m., except for holidays and campus closures. Appointments will be open until the end of the term, through exams.
There is one same-day appointment slot held per day. This appointment must be booked by calling 506-364-2163 before 11:30 a.m. for the same day.