As the healthcare environment becomes increasingly complex, with increasingly sicker patients, the need for coordinated care and critical care decision-making in chronic disease management increases. The Institute of Medicine's (IOM) definitive recommendations regarding the future of nursing aim to increase the percentage of baccalaureate nurses from 50 to 80 percent by 2020. My decision to undertake this experience was not based on this recommendation, but I am privileged to be among that percentage called upon to expand our education to a higher level, thus fulfilling that requirement. This training is preparing me to be better equipped for leadership and more advanced roles in practice management, research skills, collaboration, teamwork gaps, caring for diverse populations, and evidence-based practice. With 29 years of experience, paired with a BSN degree, grants me the knowledge and ability to function effectively in these capacities with enhanced mentoring and critical thinking skills. The Institute of Medicine requires nurses to be better able to master the innovative technological tools needed to improve patient care. As I transition into leadership roles, I am already assisting in recruiting and retaining nurses for advancement, encouraging my colleagues and recent graduates to pursue higher education, and providing information on financial assistance. Being an experienced preceptor will only broaden my ability to ensure their success (Academic Progression in Nursing, 2014). The Affordable Care Act of 2010 introduced many challenges into the healthcare system and specific expectations were placed on the nursing profession. to deal with evolving changes. Nurses are encouraged to advance to the doctoral level, doubling the rate by 2020. Once I earn my BSN degree, within a few weeks, I will be able to pursue the Master's and doctoral levels to serve as a research, teaching nurse or as a primary care provider, currently in desperate need, as less than 1% of advanced practice nurses are said to have a PhD. I am passionate about training and mentorship, so I consider advancement to this level (Institute of Medicine of the National Academics, 2011). Earning my PhD will provide me with the skills needed to address challenges and better interact with clinicians and healthcare leaders (Sacred Heart University, 2013). A PhD will certainly allow me a greater involvement in providing safe, accessible, cost-effective and quality patient-centred care, with a focus on primary care and public health within the community context.