Miles City Native Brodie Hager Pursues Nursing Career at MCC
For Brodie Hager, a freshman at Miles Community College (MCC), the decision to pursue nursing was deeply personal. Inspired by her great-grandmother, Pat Neiffer, who was a nurse, Hager always admired her dedication and compassion. Now, she is following in her footsteps with the goal of making a difference in people's lives.
“I look up to her the most,” Hager said. “I want to help people as well.”
A Passion for Patient Care
Hager’s interest in nursing grew as she explored the profession's diverse opportunities. “I really liked their scope of practice and all the different fields we could go into,” she explained. The variety of career paths within nursing excites her, as does the chance to interact with people from all walks of life.
Although she has yet to choose a specific specialization, Hager is eager to gain experience in different healthcare settings. “All the different areas of work and the people you can meet make it exciting,” she said.
Choosing MCC for Nursing Education
Having lived in Miles City, Hager was familiar with MCC’s reputation for excellence in nursing education. “I had heard great things about the program,” she said. The sense of community and the dedication of MCC’s faculty played a major role in her decision to enroll.
“The teachers and community feel are my favorite things about MCC,” Hager shared. “Everyone wants you to succeed and is willing to help.”
Overcoming Challenges in Nursing School
Balancing coursework and clinical experiences can be challenging, but Hager has developed strategies to stay on top of her responsibilities. “I time manage well, have a very specific schedule, and allow time for destressing and self-care,” she said.
Despite the demands of nursing school, Hager finds the experience incredibly rewarding. “Being able to help people and make a difference in their lives—even if it’s just making them smile for a second—is the best part,” she said.
Advice for Aspiring Nurses
For those considering a career in nursing, Hager emphasizes the importance of preparation. “Take a few pre-nursing classes and get experience wherever you can. Volunteer,” she advised.
She also stresses the essential qualities of a great nurse: teamwork, communication, reliability, and respect. These traits, she believes, are key to excelling in the profession.
Looking ahead, Hager sees herself playing a vital role in healthcare. “Nurses are the backbone of the system, making sure each team member is playing their role,” she said. “I want to advocate for patients and be as prepared and organized as possible.”
Her advice to future MCC nursing students? “Do it, and work hard at it. It isn’t easy, but you can’t let the hard days win.”
With a determined mindset and a passion for patient care, Hager is well on her way to becoming a compassionate and skilled nurse.
"Live, laugh, love nursing school!" she added with a smile.
