Guiding Lights
Courtney Albert (she/her) describes nursing as “the best job in the world” – even when it’s tough. Working in the emergency department at Saanich Peninsula Hospital, she thrives on the fast pace and constant learning that comes with the job.
Albert became involved in BCNU in her fourth year of nursing school when she joined student council and started attending meetings. Now, just a few years into her nursing career, she’s stepped up as a newly elected steward, proud to support her colleagues and help make their voices heard.
Much of Albert’s drive to care – and to stand up for others – comes from her own experiences overcoming adversity. She credits both her past and the support she’s received along the way for helping her become the nurse and advocate she is today. “You’re the last line of defense for patients,” she says. “You can’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s hard work – but it’s the best work.”
10 QUESTIONS WITH COURTNEY ALBERT
What is one word you would use to describe yourself?
Resilient. I’ve faced a lot of challenges in my life, but I’m grateful for the support I received and my own drive that helped me get here.
How did you decide to become a nurse?
At first, I was drawn to the stability – I wanted a career where I’d never have to worry about finding work. After becoming a patient myself and seeing how some mental health patients were treated, I knew I wanted to give better care than what I received.
What do you do in your spare time?
I make costumes for anime conventions and cosplay. My latest project was a Chainsaw Man helmet that I 3D-printed and built from scratch – these outfits can take me between 50 – 100 hours over four to six months.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in nursing?
You don’t need to take on too much. It’s okay to say no. Take your days off and look after yourself.
What is one thing about you that people would be surprised to learn?
I was homeless as a teenager. I couch-surfed but managed to finish high school and work towards building a stable career and life for myself.
What was the last good thing you read?
A post from Cat’s Cradle Animal Rescue, a local adoption agency on the Island, sharing that all the cats in the shelter had been adopted.
What was the best piece of career advice you’ve received?
Nursing is flexible. If one area doesn’t feel like the right fit, try another specialty. There are so many options – you don’t have to leave nursing to find your fit.
What do you like most about being a nurse?
The relationships. Working at a smaller hospital, you can build strong connections with patients. It feels like a community, not just a patient-nurse interaction. Being trusted and seeing people as more than their illness is really rewarding.
What do you like least about being a nurse?
The politics. Every day, I see how the lack of funding and low health literacy affect care. I want to help as many people as possible, but there are so many systemic barriers that get in the way.
Name one change you would like to make to the health-care system.
A stronger focus on primary intervention and education. People need to know where to go for care before it becomes an emergency. Accessible, credible education could reduce confusion and improve health outcomes.
UPDATE (Winter 2025)