Teresa Anderson, RN, MSN

Allen School of Nursing, Class of 1979 – Diploma
Allen College Class of 2008 – BSN
Allen College Class of 2012 – MSN

Employment History

My first nursing position was on a general surgical floor working the 3-11 p.m. shift at Schoitz Memorial Hospital from 1979-1983. In 1983, what merely was to initiate the process of a job application turned into leaving with a job on 5 North and East on that very same day! Beginning then, I was employed by Allen Hospital caring for patients who had general surgery, ambulatory surgery, or CABG; in Home Health; and from 2008 to the present time I have been at Allen College educating future nurses.

What led you to pursue your education at Allen College?

I decided when I was a senior in high school that I wanted to pursue nursing. I applied to Allen School of Nursing as it was in my “backyard,” but the program was full at the time. I took my pre-requisites at UNI and enrolled the fall of 1976. Fast forward from graduation in 1979 to 2004 – what began as a purely personal goal to obtain my BSN turned into continuing on to pursue my MSN within the education track. Allen College was the natural choice as I was familiar with their reputation working at Allen Hospital for 20 years and mentoring students. I am extremely proud to be not only a graduate of Allen College, but also an assistant professor at this same college preparing future nurses!

How did Allen College help prepare you for where you are now?

Allen School of Nursing diploma program was revered for the rigorous academic preparation and development of self-confidence from the numerous hands-on clinical experiences. Our training consisted of theory, but opportunities to apply this into practice were abundant having clinical a minimum of three full days a week. This opened the door to many varied nursing experiences, such as general post-surgery, home health, occupational health, and school nurse. What has held true through the years, despite a name change of the academic institution, Allen College is revered for graduates who are prepared extremely well for nursing practice wherever they may land.

Any accomplishments, awards, or proud moments?

My professional accomplishments consist of numerous proud moments, but the top priority would be obtaining my Master of Science in Nursing. I am also extremely proud of the fact that both of my daughters are Allen College nursing graduates and currently work within the UnityPoint Health system.

Hobbies or Interests

I love family time with my husband, Rick, and our 3 children, Jess, Bryce, Chelsea and their spouses and 8 grandchildren (ages 18 months to 14), attending sporting events of the grandchildren, vegetable/flower gardening, beaches and outdoor activities enjoying the sun.

What piece of advice would you give to current Allen students?

I would advise current students that despite the fact the nursing program is challenging, it is extremely worth the hard work and stress. Don’t give up on your dream to be a nurse…. you can achieve it!! Then care for others as you would a family member or how you would want to be cared for. On your journey of nursing, you will touch many lives and make a difference without even knowing it!