Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Christopher Aono. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Christopher, thanks for joining us today. What was your school or training experience like? Share an anecdote or two that you feel illustrate important aspects or the overall nature of your schooling/training experience.

Embarking on the journey of returning to school as an older adult posed significant challenges, and opting for a career change added an extra layer of difficulty. The onset of the pandemic became a catalyst, urging me to pursue my aspirations of transitioning into bedside care and attaining the title of a registered nurse. Completing a nursing degree through an accelerated program proved to be an arduous undertaking, teaching me valuable lessons in discipline and the unwavering effort required in the nursing profession. Throughout this transformative journey, I encountered numerous anecdotes that shaped my understanding of nursing. Firstly, it became evident that it is crucial to retain a clear focus on one’s goals and the initial motivation for choosing a nursing career. Nursing demands a unique set of qualities possessed by only a few individuals. Witnessing firsthand the challenges and obstacles that impact patients’ health outcomes reinforced the significance of factors such as language barriers and cultural practices that might impede understanding of treatment plans.
Secondly, navigating through the demands of a rigorous nursing program necessitates a humble approach and a willingness to comprehend diverse perspectives. In this process, I discovered a supportive community of individuals whose guidance, patience, and unwavering support became indispensable to my success. Recognizing one’s “whys” and finding avenues to realize personal dreams is paramount.
Undoubtedly, patient care presents its share of challenges, yet the ability to make a tangible difference in someone’s life is truly priceless. As I reflect on this journey, I emphasize the importance of perseverance, a supportive community, and a deep understanding of the motivations that drive individuals to pursue a career in nursing.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Initially, my aspirations leaned toward a creative marketing, design, or advertising career. However, a significant turning point occurred when I fell victim to a venomous spider bite, prompting my roommate to rush me to the emergency room. Upon regaining consciousness, medical professionals conveyed the fortunate news that I had narrowly escaped a life-threatening situation. This experience shifted my career trajectory, leading me to explore medical assisting. Initially grappling with the complexities of the program, I gradually began to grasp the intricacies as I progressed. Securing my first position at a doctor’s office proved pivotal, as the medical staff advocated for my return to school for advanced studies. Subsequently, I completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public health at Cal State LA. However, my journey revealed a pressing demand for registered nurses, prompting me to reevaluate my career path. It is never too late to follow your dreams and return to pursue higher education.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

There were numerous instances when I encountered setbacks and contemplated giving up. It was a stark realization that not everyone could be trusted, and not everyone would extend friendship or kindness towards me. Opting for a mindset of love, honestly, and vulnerability, I discovered that only a select few genuinely had my best interests at heart—a crucial juncture in my nursing program involved facing the consequences of expressing my unfiltered truth. I faced criticism and challenges to my character and intentions. However, I recognized that my aspirations and educational journey were much more significant. My overarching goal is to bring about positive change in healthcare and advocate for marginalized community members who lack a voice. Leveraging my resources and platform, I aim to make a meaningful impact. The ability to use my professional skills to enhance a patient’s life holds immeasurable value for me.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Embracing honesty, perseverance, empathy, compassion, and integrity forms the foundation of my personal values. I’ve come to understand the importance of not apologizing for expressing my authentic truth. Daily affirmations reinforce my belief in my strength, worthiness, and dedication to serving others. My ultimate aspiration is to lead an entire hospital and transform the nursing culture, emphasizing the reduction of incivility and enhancing the work environment for healthcare professionals. This, in turn, will enable us to better serve communities in need of assistance.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: My IG: Prof.C.Aono
• Facebook: FB: https://www.facebook.com/kilika.dior?mibextid=LQQJ4d