Alumni Spotlight: Kent Brouwer
Dr. Kent Brouwer, DNP, APRN, AGACNP-BC, is a two-time UK College of Nursing graduate. He completed the Accelerated BSN Program in 2018 and later graduated from the DNP Program in 2022.
He is a lecturer for the College of Nursing, an acute care nurse practitioner at Baptist Health Lexington, and a staff RN at UK Healthcare's Cardiovascular PCU.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
I thoroughly enjoy working with patients and providing quality, evidence-based care. Early in my nursing career, I discovered that working with students is extremely rewarding. Teaching students gives me an opportunity to help guide future nurses, ultimately touching the lives of even more patients.
What led you to a career in nursing?
I was diagnosed with Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) in utero and dealt with this chronic condition all through childhood and adolescence. Shortly after beginning college, I decided to have a cardiac ablation to hopefully correct my SVT. During my recovery, while talking with a nurse, I realized that I could see myself helping others for the rest of my career. A few weeks later, I shadowed her at her job in the post-anesthesia recovery unit. I knew that my own personal health challenges could be used to care for others with more serious life-altering conditions. At that point in time, I was studying psychology, and I quickly realized how that could pair nicely with a nursing degree.
What does it mean to you to be a UK College of Nursing alumnus?
It means so much to be a two-time UK College of Nursing graduate. The rigor of their academic programs, both undergraduate and graduate, truly helps prepare nurses at the highest level! I am always proud of the education I have received at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing. As you can see from my photos, I am always showcasing the University of Kentucky and our Big Blue Nursing Nation!
What advice would you give to someone pursuing a career in nursing?
For someone interested in pursuing a career in nursing, I invite you to reach out to nurses you know and talk with them about your interests. It's always extremely helpful to shadow these individuals to see what a day in the life of a nurse would look like. Nursing is such a diverse field, and there are so many opportunities to work in a variety of areas.
The UK College of Nursing values its graduates and wants to stay connected with nursing alumni! If you want to be featured in a spotlight, please email our Alumni Program Coordinator today at Brittany.Fiero@uky.edu.