Graduate School Success: Insights from Nurse Anesthetist Grant Voisinet

Embarking on a journey through graduate school is transformative. For many students, it's a leap that demands resilience, curiosity, and unwavering determination. In this week's episode of Victors in Grad School we sat down with Grant Voisinet, a graduate of the Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) program at the University of Michigan Flint, to discuss his path to becoming a nurse anesthetist. Grant shared invaluable insights and reflections on his journey from undergraduate education to becoming a full-fledged CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) and educator.

The Initial Decision to Pursue Graduate Education

Grant Voisinet knew from early on in his nursing career that he wanted to further his education. His initial plan was to become a nurse practitioner, but exposure to the role of nurse anesthetists in the ICU where he worked changed his career trajectory. "Seeing what CRNAs did and the level of respect they commanded in the operating room piqued my interest," Grant recounted. It was through shadowing these professionals and discussing the field with an anesthesiologist that his passion for anesthesia solidified.

Choosing the Right Program: Why U of M Flint?

Selecting the right graduate program is a critical step. Grant chose the University of Michigan Flint for several reasons. He appreciated the program's well-structured progression—starting with heavy didactic coursework and gradually increasing clinical exposure. Furthermore, the university’s prestigious reputation and the supportive faculty played a significant role in his decision. As Grant put it, “The progression of U of M’s program and the supportive faculty made it stand out.”

Transitioning Back to Education

Returning to academia after working in the field requires significant adjustment. For Grant, preparing for the GRE and CCRN exams before applying to the DNAP program helped ease this transition. Once in the program, he experimented with various study techniques to find what worked best for him. “I tried four or five study techniques before finding the most efficient one,” Grant shared. His approach had to adapt further as he transitioned from didactic learning to hands-on clinical placements.

Moving from Student to Educator

After graduating, Grant’s commitment to education didn’t stop. He began teaching at U of M Flint while continuing to practice clinically. His drive to educate the next generation of nurse anesthetists stems from his own positive experiences and the desire to give back. As an instructor who also works in the OR, he brings real-world experience to his students. “I wanted to help shape the minds of the new CRNAs and ensure they provide the best care possible,” he said.

Tips for Aspiring Graduate Students

Grant offers prospective graduate students several pieces of advice:

1. Expect Challenges:

   Graduate school is demanding, but maintaining focus on end goals is crucial.

2. Ask Questions:

   Engaging with faculty and peers through questions enhances understanding and retention.

3. Build Connections:

   Developing a support network among classmates is invaluable for sharing knowledge and experiences.

Grant Voisinet's journey exemplifies the dedication and adaptability required to succeed in graduate school and professional practice. His story underscores the importance of selecting the right program, finding effective study habits, and maintaining a balance between professional practice and education. As Dr. Lewis high