Ivana Begic, Mostar

Second cycle of nursing studies at the Faculty of Health Studies, University in Mostar
Head at Nurse of the Oncology Clinic at the University Clinical Hospital Mostar

I have chosen this profession because I care for people very much. I was led by the fact that I can help the sick.

Education is a continuous, lifetime process. During the graduate studies I gained significant experience and knowledge in human resources and management. After I complete the studies, I would like to dedicate myself even more to advocating for nursing profession as a nurse and as a teacher.

I believe that all nurse interns should be paid a minimum wage. Each institution should appoint and pay a graduate nurse to act
as interns’ supervisor and trainer. This would enable to recognize quality during internship which would be an advantage in the selection for permanent employment.

Had I not received the scholarship from the Strengthening Nursing in BIH project, I would have continued pursuing my degree anyway by applying for student’s loan. I believe that the project’s assistance to improve higher nurse education is still much needed. We expect the local authorities to finally recognize nurses as highly educated professionals and to value our diplomas accordingly.