According to Burns (2018) “portfolios are no longer solely the domain of artists, architects, photographers, and models. They are considered an essential tool in demonstrating professional accomplishments and documenting professional growth for a variety of professions.” The hospital I currently work at has a clinical ladder which offer the opportunity to get a bonus if you wish to participate. I currently participate and of course will continue to while doing NP school. Incorporating academic activities and accomplishments into professional development goals is essential for continuing to build my portfolio.

One strategy I plan to use is organizing. It is important to gather document because unlike a resume, a portfolio requires documents.  For example, a professional developmental goal of mine was to become a preceptor, at my job you have to take 2 classes. I took those two classes and became a preceptor, while adding my certificate to my portfolio. Burns (2018), states “Summarize the work, reflect on the significance of the work, and review the work in light of career goals and employment expectations, at least yearly.”

Another strategy is to continue to be social, network, and be involved. I also participate in my unit’s professional practice councel where we meet to discuss how to make our unit better overall, for the patients and the nurses. I will also network and join other committees that focus on patient experience. All this will go towards my professional goals of being more involved in my place of work. And also, all align with Walden’s emphasis o social change, especially my goal to help with patient experience. “Walden University defines positive social change as a deliberate process of creating and applying ideas, strategies, and actions to promote the worth, dignity, and development of individuals, communities, organizations, institutions, cultures, and societies. Positive social change results in the improvement of human and social conditions'” (Walden, 2025)

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