Q&A: LHSON Grad, Michelle Krayer

During this challenging time of COVID-19, hear from our graduates about their perspective on nursing. Meet Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing 2011 alum, Michelle Krayer, FNP-BC and active duty officer in the United States Public Health Service.

What kind of nurse are you and what inspired you to pursue your graduate degree at Baylor?
I work as a family nurse practitioner in Dallas, Texas. I decided to become a nurse practitioner in order to independently provide the highest level of care to my patients. My entire nursing career has been working in underserved areas. I choose Baylor LHSON because of their reputation for excellence and focus on mission work. I went to Ethiopia with Dr. Lori Spies  in 2011. That experience renewed my focus and increased my compassion and capacity for learning about other cultures and caring for the underserved.   

During these unprecedented times in our world, what do you think is important for people to know about nurses?
During these difficult times in our world it is most important for people to know how truly dedicated nurses are to providing quality compassionate care. Nurses selflessly sacrifice time away from families – missing birthdays, holidays, important events and milestones to ensure the health and safety of those we serve.

As you move forward in your career, how do you aspire to exemplify the LHSON motto: Learn.Lead.Serve?
I have been so honored and proud to be a Baylor LHSON graduate. I aspire to exemplify the motto: Learn.Lead.Serve by continuing to serve in the USPHS on a rapid deployment team – responding to public health crises and national emergencies such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, or terrorist attacks, both here and overseas. Soon, I also plan to pursue my DNP.