Rhode Island Online NP Programs

Dr. Julie Rousseau is a passionate and experienced family nurse practitioner with 25 years of experience providing comprehensive primary care. She is committed to patient-centered care and empowering individuals to achieve their health goals through education, collaborative partnerships, and evidence-based practice. 

Dr. Rousseau’s clinical expertise includes chronic disease management, trauma-informed care, and preventative medicine. She is board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island with a DNP degree. She currently works at a University Health clinic as well as an on-call Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner. She enjoys teaching new nursing students as an adjunct professor at the University of Rhode Island.

NPSchools.com: What do you wish the public understood about nurse practitioner programs in Rhode Island?

Dr. Rousseau: Becoming a nurse practitioner requires immersing yourself in a rigorous program that combines extensive classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences. You need to prepare for a significant time investment with specialized coursework and clinical rotations that demand persistence and a proactive learning attitude.

While many programs advise against working during your studies, the reality for many students is that part-time work is necessary to manage financial obligations. For example, some students thrive by working a 36-hour weekend or a night shift as a hospital nurse, which leaves daytime hours free for classes and clinicals. 

If financially viable, however, working fewer hours can ease the strain and allow you to focus more fully on your education, and by incorporating self-care along the way, you can reach your goals.

NPSchools.com: What advice would you give to aspiring nurse practitioner program students?

Dr. Rousseau: Embarking on the journey to become a nurse practitioner in Rhode Island is not for the faint of heart—it requires dedication, resilience, and a clear vision of your professional future. Balancing a rigorous academic schedule, clinical rotations, and, for some, part-time work is challenging. Yet, with robust hospital experience and a set of finely honed skills, you’ll be well-prepared for what lies ahead.

When considering your next steps, reflect on how best to balance your financial realities with your educational goals, and explore strategies for effective time management, networking, and balancing work-life schedules with self-care. Your path may be steep, but the reward is a fulfilling career in advanced nursing practice that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of your patients.