Emory Healthcare + AMN International: Your Path to Nursing Careers in Atlanta
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Hello everyone! I’m your host for today, Deirdre O’Regan, Senior Director of Recruitment here at AMN International — and do we have an amazing show for you today!
Let’s get things started. Happy Halloween, everyone! I hope you all have some fun plans lined up.
Today, we’re going to learn everything about Emory Healthcare, one of our esteemed partners, and we are so honored to have some tremendous guests joining us. You’ll be hearing directly from Emory’s leadership team, as well as two international nurses who are truly living the dream and working at Emory Healthcare.
So, here’s what you can look forward to today:
- Meeting Emory’s leaders and international nurses.
- Learning all about Emory Healthcare and why you might want to live in Atlanta, Georgia.
- And, most importantly, getting firsthand advice from internationally trained RNs who are now part of the Emory family.
I’m very excited to bring out our guests in just a moment. But first, like we always do on these shows — we’d love to see where you’re watching from!
I see we have Valley from North Carolina — welcome, Valley!
And we also have Sunshine watching live today (though you didn’t mention where you’re watching from!). Please go ahead and drop your locations in the comments as we go along.
Throughout today’s show, we’ll also be sharing how you can apply to join us. If you haven’t applied yet, head to amnhealthcare.com/international — that’s the link you’ll need to get started.
Now, let’s officially get our show started and bring out our amazing guests for introductions!
Meet the Panel: Emory Leaders and International Nurses
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Hello everybody, and good morning — or good afternoon, or good evening, depending on where you’re joining us from! We have participants tuning in from all over the globe today, which is always exciting.
Before we begin, I want to take a moment to recognize Edward and Felicia, who have graciously joined us today after working two consecutive shifts. Before they head off for some well-deserved rest, they’ve taken the time to share their stories, experiences, and advice with all of you. We can’t thank them enough for doing that!
Now, let’s begin with introductions. We have the pleasure of being joined by Shunda and Brittany from Emory Healthcare.
- Shunda is the Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Emory Healthcare.
- Brittany is one of Emory’s esteemed Nurse Managers.
Let’s start with Shunda — over to you!
Dr. Shunda Harper:
Thank you very much, Dee. Good morning, everyone — or good afternoon, or evening, depending on where you are in the world!
I’m Dr. Shunda Harper, the Associate Chief Nursing Officer for Emory Healthcare’s Enterprise Staffing Pool. I’ve had the honor and privilege of working at Emory for 23 years now.
Interestingly, like many of our international nurses, I actually started my own journey as an external contract hire 23 years ago! I traveled from my home in sunny South Florida — so wherever “Sunshine” is tuning in from, you might be joining us from my neck of the woods!
I’m a proud Florida native, and I earned a few degrees from Florida A&M University, followed by a few more from South University.
It’s truly a pleasure to be here this morning, representing my esteemed organization, Emory Healthcare, and to share our story with all of you.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you so much, Shunda. We truly appreciate your time, and it’s inspiring to hear about your 23 years with Emory Healthcare — that’s amazing! As we always say, you wouldn’t stay that long if you didn’t love where you work, right?
So now, let’s turn it over to Brittany.
Brittany Hubbard:
Hello and good morning to everyone! As Shunda said — good morning, good afternoon, or good evening, depending on where you’re joining us from. I’m so happy to see you all today.
My name is Brittany Hubbard, and I’m a Nurse Manager here at Emory Healthcare. I joined Emory about seven years ago, and, similar to Shunda, I started as a contract nurse. Eventually, I transitioned to a full-time role and worked my way up to become a nurse manager.
I’m very happy to be here today. Emory has provided me with phenomenal support, as well as many opportunities to grow and stretch professionally. I’m grateful for my incredible colleagues and team, and I’m excited to be here this morning to highlight the amazing nurses I have the privilege to work with.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you so much, Brittany, for sharing your story and for spending time with us today.
And just a quick note for everyone — if you hear a bit of background noise, our team is working on it behind the scenes. This is a live broadcast, and sometimes little tech hiccups happen. But no worries — our expert team is troubleshooting everything as we speak.
Now, let’s move over to Edward. Thank you so much, Edward, for taking the time to join us today. We truly appreciate your dedication — especially after working back-to-back shifts. Over to you!
Edward:
You’re welcome and thank you very much.
My name is Edward, and I’m from Ghana. I’ve been a nurse since 2009, and I came to Emory Healthcare through the international recruitment program with AMN International.
I first heard about AMN through a friend, and from the very first day I contacted them, they were extremely kind and supportive. They guided me throughout the entire journey — and today, I’m proud to say I’m here at Emory Healthcare.
Emory has been very welcoming and receptive, just like AMN was throughout my recruitment process. I’m really enjoying my life here in Atlanta, and I’m grateful for this opportunity. Thank you.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you, Edward! We’re so excited to learn more about your life in Atlanta — and what you enjoy doing outside of work.
Before we move on to Felicia, I’d like to give a few quick shoutouts!
We have Lucy joining us from Brazil, Christine from the Philippines, and Sindh from Pakistan — welcome to all of you!
Please continue to drop your locations in the chat — we love seeing where everyone is watching from around the world.
And now, last but certainly not least, let’s turn it over to Felicia. Thank you so much, Felicia, for joining us today and for taking the time to share your experience — especially after working such long shifts. We truly appreciate it, and we know you’re looking forward to some well-earned rest after this.
Felicia, please go ahead and introduce yourself.
Felicia
Thank you so much for this opportunity.
My name is Felicia, and I’m also from Ghana. I’m currently based in Atlanta, Georgia, and I work at Emory Decatur Hospital.
I’ve been a nurse for 13 years. Back home, I worked at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, which is the second largest hospital in Ghana. I relocated to Atlanta in June and have been working with Emory Decatur Hospital since then.
I must say, the team here has been absolutely amazing and very welcoming. I’ve been able to give my best, and I’m continuously learning and improving my skills so I can make a positive impact throughout my time at Emory.
I also want to take this moment to say a big thank you to AMN International for helping me relocate successfully and making this journey possible.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you, Felicia. We’re so looking forward to hearing more about your journey to the U.S. and how you were supported by AMN International. Both you and Edward are already making such positive contributions — your dedication and passion for your patients truly shine through.
I can see Brittany and Shunda nodding their heads in agreement! We’re so excited to hear more about your stories, learn what it’s like to live and work in Atlanta, and, of course, discover more about Emory Healthcare.
Before we dive into our questions for today’s esteemed panel, I’d like to welcome Van G, who’s joining us from Abu Dhabi — welcome, Van!
And just a quick housekeeping note: if you’d like to ask any questions during the show, please use the comment section. We’ll answer as many as we can throughout the session.
Now, before we kick off the discussion, we’d like to share a short video introducing Emory Healthcare.
Magnet designation means excellence, professional growth, and empowerment — because it gives me a voice to say, “Hey, we are a Magnet hospital, and we’re here to take care of you.”
We’re committed to getting our nurses certified so we can deliver the best quality care possible. That means our nurses are trained and supported to provide patient-centered care and deliver excellence on a consistent basis.
Magnet designation gives us a badge of honor — it represents a place that values the hard work of nurses, encourages collaboration across disciplines, and is always moving nursing forward.
It promotes self-governance and teamwork, not just within individual units but across the entire health system. Being part of the Magnet program helps us recognize our nurses’ specialties, celebrate their achievements, and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making.
When nurses feel psychologically safe — when they know their opinions matter — they’re more willing to share their thoughts, and that trust ultimately benefits our patients.
Whether you’re at Emory Midtown or Emory University Hospital, you can expect the same level of excellent care. Magnet means teamwork, research, professional support, and continuous improvement — all of which make Emory Healthcare truly exceptional.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Wow — what an inspiring video! I absolutely love that. It really sets the tone for the amazing discussion we’re about to have.
Congratulations to Emory Healthcare on earning Magnet designation — one of the highest distinctions a healthcare organization can receive. For those watching, this is an important factor to consider when choosing where to work in the U.S. Magnet status represents a culture of excellence, empowerment, and shared leadership.
And now, welcome to Fomba from Kenya — thank you so much for joining us!
We’ve got some great questions coming in, but let’s start first with Shunda.
What Makes Emory Healthcare Unique: Culture, Mission, and Magnet Excellence
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Shunda, what makes Emory Healthcare unique in terms of its culture, mission, and approach to care delivery?
Dr. Shunda Harper:
Thank you, Dee. I’ll try to keep my answer short so I don’t take up the entire event!
As you saw in that video — and as you might have noticed when I put my hand on my chest — I’ve seen that video many times. I even watched our team members as they filmed it, and like Brittany, I know many of the nurses featured. Some of us even played a part in helping their teams prepare.
We have 29,500 staff members supporting 11 hospitals and more than 285 clinics — and nothing makes us prouder than the excellent care we deliver.
The culture at Emory Healthcare is what truly sets us apart. We put our patients first, always. You can talk about mission, vision, and values all day, but what matters is whether you actually live them — and we do.
When people ask what’s kept me here for 23 years, my answer is simple: it’s the culture. It’s the impact we make — not just in our local Atlanta community, but across the world.
We’re proud to be the only academic medical center in the state of Georgia, and we’re world-renowned for our excellence. Nearly 30,000 of us — every single one — plays an important role in making sure that we don’t just talk about quality care, we live it.
We breathe it, we believe it, and we deliver it every single day. Nobody does what we do, and nobody embodies trust and compassion the way Emory nurses do. That’s the heart of who we are.
When things get tough, people know exactly who to call — Emory Healthcare.
First Days at Emory: International Nurse Experiences
Deirdre O’Regan (Host): Thank you so much, Shunda. That was beautifully said — and you can feel the authenticity in every word.
As you mentioned, with nearly 30,000 employees, ensuring that every voice is heard is no small feat. It’s clear from both the video and your words that Emory truly lives its values.
Emory Healthcare is recognized around the world and consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States. That reputation comes from exactly what you’ve described — a culture of collaboration, respect, and excellence.
Now, Felicia, I’d like to come to you. Can you tell us a little about your first days at Emory? What was that experience like, and how were you feeling at the time?
Felicia Popu:
Thank you so much.
As an international nurse, I was a little anxious before my first day — wondering what kind of people I would meet at Emory. But I was blessed to be under the leadership of my nurse manager, Brittany, who was so kind and welcoming.
She introduced me to the team during their morning huddle, and everyone was genuinely happy to see me. They asked how I was doing, if I needed anything, and made sure I felt comfortable.
That warmth and support made such a big difference. I didn’t feel like a stranger — I felt like part of a family from day one. Those first few days and weeks were so encouraging, and I knew right away that I was in the right place.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you, Felicia — that’s such a heartwarming story. And it’s so true — those first days are absolutely critical.
As someone who also came to the United States as an immigrant myself — from Ireland, quite a few years ago (I won’t say how many!) — I know how overwhelming those early days can be. You’re excited but also nervous, missing home, and questioning whether you made the right decision.
Having a welcoming environment and friendly faces like Brittany’s can make all the difference in the world.
So, Brittany, let’s turn to you now — why are internationally educated RNs so important to your team’s success at Emory Healthcare?
Brittany:
I think it’s hugely important, especially when we have international nurses. Our first takeaway was that Emory Healthcare, by far, has the most diversity when it comes to our colleagues in nursing and even in ancillary services. I’m from Tennessee, and I can confidently say that Emory stands out in that aspect.
It’s really important for us to connect when we have such diverse teams. When nurses come from outside of the United States, one of the first things I do is pair them with a preceptor who can relate to their experience. For example, when Felicia joined us, I paired her with a preceptor who was also from Jamaica. She was so thrilled to have that shared connection and experience.
There’s always an opportunity to gain unique experiences and understand different points of view — and truly, we can all learn from one another. I’m really happy to see our international nurses fully immersed, and they have even been able to teach our U.S.-based nurses. That’s been a great win for all of us.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Thank you, Brittany. We hear that so often — that our international nurses bring a wealth of experience and knowledge. Many come in and, in time, move into preceptor or nurse manager roles. Later, we’ll also discuss the career and development opportunities available at Emory Healthcare for international nurses.
Edward, can you share a bit about what made you feel welcome during your first days at Emory Healthcare?
Edward:
When you start work as an international nurse, you often hear stories about hospitals where people aren’t very receptive. So on your first day, you arrive anxious and unsure of what to expect.
I remember when Felicia and I arrived — we were looking for Brittany, and as soon as she saw us, she said, “Are you Edward? Are you Felicia?” She already knew our names! That was such a meaningful gesture. It wasn’t just meeting a nurse manager who had no idea who we were — she was waiting for us and made us feel like we truly belonged.
Even during our Epic training, she would check in: “Hey Edward, have you eaten? If not, get something to eat.” That kind of care is something we’re not used to back home from a nurse manager. I even asked Luciana if Brittany was really the nurse manager because she was so kind and hands-on!
Throughout the hospital, people would stop us in the hallways, asking, “Hey buddy, do you need anything? Are you okay?” Those simple gestures made us feel so welcome. We had heard stories before coming, but our experience was completely the opposite — and that was an amazing feeling.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Thank you, Edward. That really mirrors Felicia’s story — feeling welcomed from the very first moment. Knowing your name may seem small, but in a large organization like Emory, with almost 30,000 employees, that personal touch is truly exceptional.
The recurring theme we’re hearing is family. It feels like coming home to a family, and that’s so important when you’re considering where you want to build your long-term career.
We’re seeing some questions coming in — Giddy, watching from the UK, congratulations on passing the NCLEX! You can apply with us at amnhealthcare.com/international, and our expert recruiters will be happy to connect with you.
Rossi says, “AMN all the way!” — thank you so much for joining. And Umar, I saw your question about medical technologists; we’ll get to that shortly or in our upcoming immigration-focused session.
The Emory–AMN International Partnership Explained
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Now, Shunda, can you talk a bit about the relationship between Emory Healthcare and AMN Healthcare International? What led to that partnership?
Shunda:
AMN is our MSP — our Managed Services Provider — for domestic contract labor, and we have such an extraordinary partnership. Because I work closely with all contingent labor at Emory Healthcare, it often feels like we’re one and the same organization.
So, taking that partnership one step further to include AMN International for our internationally trained nurses was a natural progression. We’ve had international programs before, but nothing like this one. With AMN International, the collaboration is seamless — if you’re talking to an Emory Healthcare team member, you’re virtually talking to an AMN team member.
Our international nurses are eager to come to the U.S., but as Felicia and Edward mentioned, feeling welcome is everything. We had to make sure that environment existed here first.
Like Maya Angelou said, “People may forget what you said, they may forget what you did, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.” That’s a philosophy I live by — not just as a nurse, but as a person.
We want to create an environment where you don’t just come to work — you come to stay, grow, and build your career. By bringing in long-term, engaged clinicians like you, we’re reducing reliance on short-term contract labor while strengthening our culture.
And on a lighter note — I’ve taken several assignments here in Metro Atlanta. I’m a Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan (for those outside the U.S., that’s American football!), but when the Falcons aren’t playing the Bucs, you’ll find me cheering for the Falcons in full gear at home games. Atlanta has so much to offer — football, basketball, amusement parks, and the busiest airport in the world. You might even spot me traveling through Hartsfield-Jackson on my way to visit your home country on vacation!
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
I love that! And yes, I was just at Hartsfield-Jackson last week myself. That quote you mentioned, Shunda — it’s actually posted right on my screen. It’s a message that resonates globally.
You mentioned how AMN and Emory feel like one and the same, and I think that perfectly sums up the strength of this partnership.
Now, Felicia, what advice would you give to nurses who are considering joining Emory Healthcare in the future, no matter where they are in the process right now?
Advice for Aspiring International Nurses
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
(Technical note) — I think Felicia’s audio is a little off, so while our team works on that, Edward, would you like to take the question?
Edward:
Sure, I caught the first part of it. My advice to any nurse considering Emory Healthcare is this: Come with an open mind and heart. The support, kindness, and professionalism you’ll experience here will exceed your expectations. From day one, you’ll feel valued — not just as a nurse, but as a person.
Edward:
Nursing is a demanding profession, so it’s important to work in an environment where the system helps reduce stress instead of adding to it. Of course, I won’t say there’s no stress — after all, we deal with human lives — but the system itself shouldn’t create unnecessary pressure.
For me, choosing Emory was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The work here is definitely demanding because you have to apply all your nursing skills and knowledge, but the system treats you well. That means the extra tension you might experience in other places — where you’re trying to give your best while the system frustrates you — is removed.
Another thing I value at Emory is that development is encouraged. When you do something well, your nurse manager will notice and appreciate you. I’ve had my manager say, “Hey, the work you did was excellent. Keep it up!” Those kinds of words motivate you to do even better.
The environment here is friendly, and the system supports you instead of stressing you out. And as Felicia said earlier, the dream is achievable.
I always tell my friends who contact me, “Don’t give up.” I know some hesitate to take the NCLEX because it seems difficult. My advice is — study as if you were doing your master’s degree, because the reward is worth even more. That’s the truth.
Yes, the process can be tough — especially with how complex the immigration system can be right now — but that challenge will motivate you to keep moving forward. So my biggest piece of advice is this: choose a stress-free and supportive environment. Emory provides exactly that. That’s what makes all the difference.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Thank you very much, Edward. We truly appreciate your perspective. It looks like we had some technical difficulties with Felicia earlier, but we’ll bring her back on as soon as she’s able to reconnect.
Brittany, a similar question to what we asked Shunda earlier — what do you look for in a staffing partner, and what makes AMN stand out for you?
Brittany:
I’ve worked alongside AMN for several years now, and it’s always been a positive experience. What I appreciate most about the partnership is the open dialogue — we discuss exactly what we’re looking for in candidates, and AMN listens.
When nurses arrive here, I always tell them the same thing: We can teach you technical skills, but we can’t teach you how to be kind. That’s the main quality we look for — kind, open individuals who genuinely care about people and want to provide excellent care for our patients.
If we can help each other grow professionally and expand our knowledge along the way, that benefits everyone — our patients, our teams, and ourselves. I’ve truly enjoyed working with AMN and especially appreciate all the wonderful nurses we’ve received through this partnership.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Thank you so much, Brittany. And Felicia, welcome back!
Felicia:
Hello! Sorry about that — my device was acting up.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
No problem at all! This is a live show, so things like that happen. But I’d love to give you the chance to answer the question we asked earlier: What advice would you give to anyone watching today who’s considering making Emory their home here in the United States?
Felicia:
Thank you! So, my advice is this — the dream is achievable.
Relocating to the United States is not easy. You need to work hard, pass your NCLEX, and go through the immigration process, which can take time and patience. But believe me — it’s worth it. If we were able to relocate successfully, you can too.
We always say that the U.S. is the land of opportunities, and that’s true. There are so many opportunities here for professional growth. Emory is one of the best hospitals in Atlanta, and the people here are amazing. They truly help you grow in your career, and you’ll never regret coming here.
So my advice is — step out of your comfort zone, give it your all, and stay focused. With determination, you’ll succeed and reach your dream.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Thank you, Felicia. You’ve heard it directly from two incredible nurses — Edward and Felicia — who are living their dreams at Emory Healthcare.
As they both mentioned, the journey isn’t always easy. Sometimes it takes longer than expected, but the dream is still very much achievable. Stay hopeful, stay patient, and keep working toward your goal.
One of our viewers, Wamba, commented: “I like your shows because they keep me updated and hopeful.” That’s exactly the message we want to share — remain hopeful. Yes, visa retrogression has caused delays, but it’s temporary. Stay the course, and you will get here.
Edward and Felicia are proof that if you stay consistent, control what you can, and keep pushing forward, you will arrive — and hopefully join an organization as supportive as Emory, where you can thrive personally and professionally.
Where Emory Healthcare Is Located in Georgia
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Now that you’ve heard all about what makes Emory Healthcare such a great place to work, let’s talk about Atlanta — the city itself and where Emory’s facilities are located.
Shunda, could you walk us through where Emory Healthcare’s facilities are across Georgia?
Shunda:
Sure! We consider ourselves part of North and North-Central Georgia, but our network is expanding rapidly. We recently acquired two new hospitals about two hours south of Atlanta — Emory Warner Robins Hospital and Emory Perry Hospital.
I originally came from the DeKalb Operating Unit, which is central to Decatur. Emory acquired those three hospitals about seven years ago, and since then, our team has continued to grow. We’ve expanded from nine hospitals to eleven as of June this year, and we anticipate even more growth in the coming years.
Our goal is to keep expanding across Georgia so that we can reach more communities and impact more lives — both in the U.S. and globally.
As for geography, our Johns Creek Hospital is located up north along I-75 and I-85. We often refer to our interstates when describing locations — I-75 and I-85 run north-south, I-20 runs east-west right through downtown Atlanta, and I-285 circles the city.
When you hear locals say “inside the perimeter” or “outside the perimeter,” they’re referring to I-285. We span all directions — Hillandale to the east, St. Joseph’s to the northwest, and our southernmost hospitals in Perry and Warner Robins.
We also have ambulatory clinics across the state, offering primary care and specialized services. So, Emory Healthcare truly reaches far and wide across Georgia.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host)
Thank you so much, Shunda. So, it’s safe to say Emory Healthcare is a large, growing system — and that means lots of opportunities for nurses and healthcare professionals!
Now, before we talk about what life is like in Atlanta, let’s have a little fun and test everyone’s knowledge with a quick Georgia Trivia Quiz!
Georgia Trivia Quiz
Question 1:
What is Georgia’s official state nickname?
A) The Magnolia State
B) The Peach State
C) The Cotton State
(Audience votes in chat)
Answer: B — The Peach State! 🍑 Great job to everyone who got it right!
Question 2:
Which famous soft drink was invented in Georgia?
A) Pepsi
B) Dr. Pepper
C) Coca-Cola
Edward: Coca-Cola!
Felicia: Coca-Cola!
Deirdre O’Regan (Host): That’s correct — the answer is C, Coca-Cola! Well done!
Question 3:
What is the capital city of Georgia?
A) Atlanta
B) Savannah
C) Macon
Felicia: Atlanta!
Deirdre O’Regan (Host): That’s right — the capital is Atlanta! Great job, everyone.
That was a fun little break! Now, before we wrap up, let’s share a few quick facts about Atlanta:
- Atlanta is the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is the busiest airport in the world.
- This is especially helpful for international nurses — it means easy access and plenty of flights home when you need to travel.
- The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the sixth largest aquarium in the world — a perfect place for family outings.
- Atlanta is also home to the global headquarters of major companies like CNN, Delta Airlines, The Home Depot, Coca-Cola, and UPS.
- This means excellent employment opportunities for spouses or family members, across a variety of industries.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
So, Edward, after working several shifts, when you finally have a day off, what do you like to do? How do you enjoy life in Atlanta?
Edward:
For me, I usually sleep — because most of the time when I come home, my cases don’t really allow me to get much rest. So on my days off, I take the chance to catch up on sleep.
Apart from that, I have a neighborhood pool, and I really enjoy swimming there. I also love playing the keyboard, so whenever I’m free, I spend some time doing that as well.
Sometimes, my kids are the main motivation for all these activities. When I’m off duty, I like to take them out to have fun and explore new places. Our next stop is going to be the aquarium — I’m glad you mentioned that earlier!
Those are the little things I enjoy doing when I’m not working.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you very much, Edward! I can’t believe we only have 15 minutes left — time has gone by so quickly.
We still have a few more things to cover, so Felicia, before we move on to career opportunities and programs for international nurses at Emory, let me ask you the same question. What do you like to do when you’re not working?
And just like Edward, you’ve also come off two consecutive shifts, so I’m guessing sleep is probably at the top of your list right now!
Felicia:
Yes, definitely! As soon as this is over, I’m going straight to bed.
But what I really love to do is go out on weekends after church and spend time with my kids. They go to school very early — around 6:30 in the morning — so I don’t get to take them out much during the week. That’s why I make it a point to take them out on weekends.
Recently, we visited Atlanta Park, and it was amazing — they loved it! Our next stop is going to be the aquarium as well.
Also, the city where I live is very convenient. Everything I need is nearby — grocery stores, big shops — so I also enjoy doing a bit of shopping when I have the time.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
That’s wonderful, Felicia. And I’m sure living in such a diverse city like Atlanta makes that even better! There’s such a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and international markets.
Coming from Ireland myself, there are certain spices I just can’t live without, and I have to drive all the way to Savannah to find them. But in Atlanta, you can easily find almost anything nearby — that’s one of the great things about the city.
Career Growth at Emory: Education, Roles, and Leadership Paths
Now, Shunda, let’s go back to you. Can you tell us a bit about what career growth paths are available for international nurses at Emory Healthcare?
Shunda:
Of course! First, I want to say that there’s virtually no difference between our international nurses and any other Emory Healthcare employees.
I’ll use myself as an example. I came here 23 years ago as a contract nurse, just like many of our international nurses do. At that time, I had a bachelor’s degree in nursing — and I clearly loved it here because I never left!
During my career, I’ve had the privilege of leading several departments, including serving as the Nurse Leader for the Emergency Departments at the DeKalb Operating Unit. Throughout the years, I’ve worked closely with many international nurses and learned so much from them — what to do, what not to do — but most importantly, I saw that they wanted the same opportunities for growth as everyone else.
At least 50% of the international nurses I worked with are still with the organization eight years later, and many of them have moved into leadership roles.
To give you some examples:
- One is now a nurse educator,
- Three are charge nurses,
- One became a nurse manager, and
- Another just completed her board certification as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and is now a nurse leader at our Johns Creek facility.
Many have gone back to school for advanced degrees — and Emory Healthcare supported them through that process.
Personally, I started as a staff nurse, then moved up to charge nurse, supervisor, manager, director, executive director, and now I’m the Assistant Vice President.
When I started, I had two bachelor’s degrees. Over time, I earned two master’s degrees and eventually a doctorate — all made possible with the help of Emory Healthcare.
So when I say the sky’s the limit, I truly mean it. If growth and development are what you want, you don’t have to look outside of Emory to achieve that.
We’re an academic healthcare system tied to a major university, which means endless learning and advancement opportunities.
Your dream can absolutely come true — and as someone who has been to Disney World 15 times, I can tell you firsthand that dreams really do come true!
I’ve been a nurse for 30 years, and 23 of those years have been with Emory. I’ve seen countless examples of nurses growing their careers right here.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Wow — what an incredible and inspiring career, Shunda! You’ve accomplished so much, and it’s wonderful to still hear the same passion in your voice after 23 years at Emory Healthcare.
For everyone watching, one of the biggest motivations for coming to the United States is career development — the opportunity to advance professionally.
And as Shunda mentioned, there are so many pathways to grow within Emory. You don’t have to look elsewhere — Emory can truly be your professional home for life.
Orientation & Onboarding: 12-Week Competency-Based Program
Now, Brittany, could you tell us a bit about what the orientation process looks like for international nurses?
Brittany:
Sure! I actually don’t do this alone — I work closely with my colleague, Ms. Evelyn Bimena, who is our Education Coordinator (or as we now call it, Nurse Professional Development Specialist).
Together, we oversee the onboarding process for all new employees — whether they’re contract nurses or full-time staff.
Our orientation is competency-based, and it’s designed to make sure every nurse feels confident and supported.
When I first started working with international nurses, I realized that some things are a little different from what U.S.-trained nurses are used to — especially in areas like medication names and practices.
So we make sure to bridge those gaps by providing detailed training on:
- U.S. medication names and their uses,
- Hospital systems and documentation, and
- Common procedures in our facilities.
Orientation usually lasts around 12 weeks. During that time, nurses meet regularly with Evelyn, myself, or one of our unit nurse educators for one-on-one check-ins.
We use those sessions to address any questions, talk about their experiences on the floor, and make sure they feel comfortable and competent in their roles.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you so much, Brittany. It sounds like every nurse — not just international nurses — gets a strong and supportive start at Emory Healthcare, which really shows how dedicated the system is to helping everyone succeed.
That’s something our audience will be glad to hear, especially since one of the most common questions we receive is: “How will I be supported during orientation?”
And hearing from Edward and Felicia earlier — about how welcomed, trained, and supported they were — really reinforces that message.
Moments That Inspire Nursing Careers
I can’t believe we’re already almost out of time! But before we wrap up, I have one final question for each of you.
First, Shunda — could you share one special moment, big or small, that motivated you to pursue a career in healthcare and to continue working at Emory?
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you so much for that, Shunda. That story truly resonated with all of us — the compassion, the teamwork, and the impact that Emory nurses have on both their patients and one another. We really appreciate you sharing such a heartfelt moment.
Now, Felicia, the same question goes to you. Could you share a moment that inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare — particularly nursing — and what has made your experience at Emory Healthcare special?
Felicia:
For me, nursing is about giving back to society. Helping another human being come back to life brings me so much joy and satisfaction — it’s what truly fulfills me.
Being part of a healthcare team gives me the opportunity to do that every day.
Since joining Emory, one of the moments that stood out most to me was attending Culture Day. I loved it because I had the chance to meet members of the top management team, and they took the time to mingle with us, listen to our experiences, and ask what they could do to help us become even better at our work.
That openness and support really made me feel valued and part of a family.
Also, one of my personal goals has always been to receive a DAISY Award. Back home in Ghana, I used to see nurses winning DAISY Awards, and it always made me so proud and inspired. Now that I’m here at Emory, I’m motivated to work hard and do my best so that one day I can also achieve that honor — and I know I will.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
I have no doubt that you will, Felicia — and when you do, you must come back on the show to share that moment with us!
Notice how I didn’t say if — I said when you win that DAISY Award.
By the way, we did a show with the DAISY Foundation a few months ago where they shared their mission and talked about how the award has become an international symbol of excellence and compassion in nursing. I’ll send you the link, Felicia, so you can watch it — it’s really inspiring.
We also featured several international nurses who were DAISY Award recipients, and I can’t wait for the day when you’ll be one of them too.
Now, Brittany — same question for you. Could you share a moment or experience that inspired your journey into healthcare and your work at Emory?
Brittany:
Yes, ma’am — thank you so much.
I can only echo what Shunda and Felicia have already said. The care, compassion, and innovation that go into everything we do here at Emory Healthcare are truly remarkable.
Being part of this team has been such a blessing. When I started my contract journey as a nurse, I only wanted to work in the very best places — and I can confidently say that coming to Emory Healthcare was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
The experience has been eye-opening and deeply rewarding. I’ve learned so much, grown as a professional, and have had the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our patients while learning from an incredible team along the way.
It’s been the ultimate joy.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you, Brittany. That’s wonderful to hear — and I love the passion that shines through in your words.
Now, Edward — we’ll wrap up with you. Could you share what inspired you to go into healthcare, particularly nursing, and what made you choose Emory Healthcare?
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you so much, Brittany. That was wonderful to hear — your words truly reflect the passion and pride that define Emory Healthcare.
Now, Edward, let’s wrap up with you. Could you share what inspired you to go into healthcare, particularly nursing, and what made you choose Emory Healthcare?
Edward:
Thank you.
I’ve always wanted to put smiles on people’s faces. When I first started this journey, I wasn’t entirely sure if I had made the right choice — but there was one moment that completely changed everything for me.
It was back in nursing school. We had just learned about fainting and emergency response techniques. Shortly after that, I got a message from home — “Edward, go back home, go back home.” So I did.
When I arrived, I found my mother collapsed. And at that very moment, I applied exactly what I had just learned in class. That action — that simple skill — saved her life.
From that day onward, I knew nursing was my calling. I realized that this profession gives us the power to bring hope and healing — to literally give life back. That experience has been my greatest motivation ever since: to keep putting smiles on people’s faces.
Even today, something special happened. One of my patients said to me, “Hey, are you really married?” I told him, “Yes, I’ve been married for 10 years.” He smiled and said, “Thank you. God bless you. I wish you and your wife many more years together. May all your dreams come true. May you become someone great.”
When you hear words like that — sincere gratitude from someone whose life you’ve touched — it’s worth more than gold. These are the moments that remind us why we do what we do.
At the end of the day, when you care for someone with genuine kindness, the simple “thank you” that comes from their heart makes everything worthwhile. That’s what keeps us going every single day.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you so much, Edward — that was truly moving.
And thank you to all of our guests — Shunda, Felicia, Brittany, and Edward — for sharing such heartfelt and inspiring stories. Each of you has shown us what compassion, resilience, and dedication look like in action.
I know there are many more moments that have not only defined your careers but also reaffirmed your commitment to healthcare and to your patients. Whether it was Shunda’s story about teamwork and perseverance, Felicia’s passion for giving back, Brittany’s dedication to learning and growth, or Edward’s powerful personal journey — you’ve all reminded us that, at the heart of nursing, it’s always about the patients.
Your passion, compassion, and commitment shine through everything you do.
We are just a few minutes over time — and honestly, we could stay here for two more hours listening to your stories — but I do want to say a heartfelt thank you to each of you for joining us today and sharing your “why” with all of us.
To our audience, thank you as well for tuning in. I know today’s discussion resonated with many of you. For those whose questions we didn’t get to, don’t worry — we’ll follow up through the chat later today.
And to Edward and Felicia — get some well-deserved rest! I know your beds are calling after a long day, but thank you again for your commitment to Emory Healthcare and to your patients.
We look forward to having you all back on a future show — especially when Felicia and Edward come back to share their DAISY Award stories with us!
A big thank you again to everyone for your time, dedication, and for all that you do. We’ve learned so much about Emory Healthcare and the incredible opportunities it offers — not just for international nurses, but for all nurses who aspire to make a difference.
Deirdre O’Regan (Host):
Thank you again for joining us. I hope you found today’s discussion as inspiring as I did. Speaking with the Emory leadership team and our international nurses has been such a privilege — what passion, what dedication!
Before we wrap up, here are a few quick reminders about our upcoming events:
- Immigration Q&A Show – November 14:
Join us for a full session where all your immigration questions will be answered. We’ll be covering topics like H-1B visas and updates for medical technologists — so don’t miss it. - AMN Academy:
You can catch me every fourth Monday of the month for career sessions, and the first and third Mondays are all about English — focused on helping you succeed and pass the IELTS exam.
And remember — we have about six weeks left to secure your 2025 priority date! While there are two months left in the year, the holidays can make the time go quickly. So take action now and secure your spot today.
Don’t wait for the next visa bulletin — no one can predict what will happen. Take control of your future now.
You could be the next Felicia or Edward, sharing your story on this very show.
Don’t get discouraged if the journey takes time — your dream is still alive, and you can make it to the United States.
Until next time — onwards and upwards!
Happy Halloween, and have a wonderful weekend, everyone.