Mckenzie Sanchez-Gradisher

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Nurse Externship position at your organization. I am currently a nursing student at Mid Michigan Community College pursuing my Associate Degree in Nursing, with an expected graduation date of May 2027. Following graduation, I plan to continue my education through a BSN bridge program at Central Michigan University. I am eager to gain additional hands-on clinical experience while contributing to a patient-centered healthcare team.

Throughout my nursing education, I have completed 306 clinical hours across several healthcare settings including long-term care, mental health, oncology, medical-surgical, and step-down units. These experiences have allowed me to develop strong foundational nursing skills such as head-to-toe assessments, medication administration, wound care, Foley catheter insertion, oxygen therapy, glucose monitoring, and patient education. In addition, my previous experience working as a Certified Nursing Assistant for three years strengthened my ability to provide compassionate bedside care, monitor changes in patient condition, and collaborate effectively with nursing staff in fast-paced environments.

My clinical instructors often describe me as a student who builds strong, trusting relationships with patients while maintaining a professional and organized approach to care. I strive to create a supportive environment for patients by communicating clearly, maintaining a calm presence, and ensuring that each patient feels informed and respected throughout their care. I am also highly motivated to learn and consistently seek opportunities to expand my clinical knowledge and hands-on experience.

I am particularly interested in gaining exposure to a variety of acute care environments, including critical care, emergency, cardiac, and medical-surgical units. A nurse externship would provide an invaluable opportunity for me to continue developing my clinical judgment, strengthen my nursing skills, and learn directly from experienced nurses while supporting high-quality patient care.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my clinical experience, work ethic, and passion for nursing could contribute to your team. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to hearing from you.

Professional Experience

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Mission Point – Big Rapids, MI
2 Years

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Northwoods Nursing Center – Farwell, MI
1 Year

Provided direct patient care in a long-term care setting while collaborating closely with nursing staff to support patient safety and comfort.

Clinical & Patient Care Skills

• Performed accurate vital sign monitoring including blood pressure, pulse, respirations, oxygen saturation, and temperature, promptly reporting abnormal findings.
• Assisted patients with activities of daily living including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and hygiene while maintaining dignity and respect.
• Measured and documented intake and output to monitor hydration status and identify potential complications.
• Assisted with safe patient mobility including ambulation, repositioning, transfers, and fall-prevention interventions.
• Provided feeding assistance and nutritional monitoring while ensuring proper positioning and swallowing safety.
• Maintained accurate documentation in electronic health records including mobility status, care provided, and patient responses.
• Observed and reported changes in patient condition including mental status, respiratory status, skin integrity, and pain levels.

Interpersonal & Team Skills

• Collaborated with registered nurses and interdisciplinary healthcare team members to support coordinated patient care.
• Communicated effectively with patients and families to provide reassurance, education, and emotional support.
• Prioritized multiple patient needs in fast-paced clinical environments while maintaining patient safety and attention to detail.

Education

Mid Michigan Community College
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Expected Graduation: May 8, 2027
GPA: 3.2

Planned RN-to-BSN Bridge Program
Central Michigan University – Summer 2027

Dean’s List

Certifications

Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)