Criminal Background

[optimisticfuturenurse]

I am reaching out to this community in hopes of finding support, advice, and perhaps some words of encouragement. My journey to becoming a nurse has been filled with challenges, and I want to share my story in the most honest and open way possible.

A few years ago, I found myself in a very toxic relationship. I rushed into marriage with someone I hardly knew, and without the support of family, I felt trapped and isolated. During that time, I made some terrible decisions that led to two arrests for domestic violence, a DUI, and eventually, three months in jail—all within the span of a year. Growing up as a runaway, I lacked the guidance and support that could have steered me away from such a destructive path.

However, after hitting rock bottom, I finally opened my eyes and realized that I needed to make a change. I moved back to Florida, reconnected with my family, and cut ties with every negative influence in my life. I began to surround myself with motivational people who inspired me to be better. I earned my GED, enrolled in college, and dedicated two years to completing my prerequisites for nursing school.

I also looked for ways to give back to the community and signed up for a citizens police academy program (Which ran a background check on me to attend). I've been volunteering, and my passion for helping others has only grown stronger. I am no longer the person I was before—I'm deeply remorseful for my past actions, and I've learned my lesson in the hardest way possible.

Recently, I was hired at a very reputable hospital, where I started as a patient representative in the cancer center. Now, I'm a unit secretary on a MedSurg floor, working closely with patients. I care for them so deeply, and every day I am reminded of why I want to become a nurse. I want to give back for all the wasted years and help others the way I was helped.

Unfortunately, I just received the devastating news that I am not able to do my clinical hours because my background was not accepted. I am in the process of applying for an exemption, but this setback has been incredibly hard for me. I feel like I've worked so hard to turn my life around, only to be held back by mistakes I made during one of the darkest periods of my life.

I am not that person anymore. I am determined, passionate, and ready to dedicate myself to a profession that means the world to me. If anyone has been through something similar or has any advice on how to navigate this situation, I would greatly appreciate your feedback. I know I've made mistakes, and I'm doing everything I can to make amends and move forward.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.