Prompt
Setting goals is an important part of lifelong education and career planning. When USU FNP students consider their goals for their future careers, they should consider using the SMART principles, which have been around since the 1980s. SMART is an acronym that helps guide the formulation of goals that are:
Specific (simple, sensible, significant).
Measurable (meaningful, motivating).
Achievable (agreed, attainable).
Relevant (reasonable, realistic and resourced, results-based).
Time bound (time-based, time limited, time/cost limited, timely, time-sensitive).
Utilizing the concepts of S-M-A-R-T goals, in a table or in 100-250 words, please describe two to three short-term and one or two long-term professional SMART goals for after graduation. Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-framed. Please comment on at least two peers’ goals.
Expectations
Length: A minimum of 150 words, not including references
Citations: None required
In general, FNP students and new FNP alumni need to communicate with the University registrar and nursing leadership for three main reasons:
Verification of program completion for your state BRN license
Verification of program completion for one of the two national board certification programs (ANCC and AANP)
Employment verification
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
SMART Goals for Future Career as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Goal Type SMART Goal
Short-term Goal 1: Secure a position as a Family Nurse Practitioner within six months of graduation. This goal is specific (securing an FNP role), measurable (job offers or interviews), achievable (based on current job market), relevant (aligned with my career aspirations), and time-bound (within six months).
Goal 2: Complete one professional certification (e.g., ANCC or AANP) within three months post-graduation. This goal is specific (obtaining certification), measurable (pass/fail results), achievable (based on study plan and preparation), relevant (essential for practice), and time-bound (within three months).
Long-term Goal 1: Establish a private practice within five years of graduation. This goal is specific (opening a practice), measurable (defining patient numbers and services), achievable (researching startup costs and requirements), relevant (drives personal career vision), and time-bound (within five years).
Goal 2: Attain a leadership role within a healthcare organization (e.g., FNP team lead or department head) within seven years. This goal is specific (securing a leadership position), measurable (performance evaluations and promotions), achievable (based on networking and skill development), relevant (aligns with long-term career aspirations), and time-bound (within seven years).
These SMART goals provide a structured framework for my professional development as I transition from student to practicing FNP, ensuring that I remain focused on both immediate and future aspirations.
