Reyna Betancourt: A nursing student’s journey to success

Reyna Betancourt is a shining example of the American dream. Born in Mexico, she moved to Georgia at the young age of three and has spent her life working towards her goals. Recently, she became a U.S. citizen, and her hard work has paid off with an upcoming graduation from Brenau University’s nursing program.

Betancourt gave Access Atlanta a peek into her life as a mom, wife, student and nurse extern at Northside Hospital Atlanta for our Day in the Life feature – check out our Instagram reel and keep reading for details on some of her favorite metro Atlanta spots.

One of the things that Betancourt appreciates most about working at Northside is the flexibility the hospital offers. As a first-generation college student, having the ability to balance work, school and motherhood is incredibly important to her. Northside has been a valuable resource in helping her manage her time so she can prioritize her studies and finish school soon.

Betancourt’s favorite thing about working at Northside is the hospitality she’s received from her colleagues.

“It feels like home,” Betancourt says, “I know everyone is willing to answer any questions that I have.”

A typical day for Betancourt involves taking care of six to eight patients, checking vitals, administering medication, and helping with daily tasks like bathing and changing bedding. She finds joy in taking care of her patients and knowing that she’s making a difference in their lives.

For anyone considering a career in health care, Betancourt has one piece of advice: look for a supportive employer.

“Northside is very flexible,” Betancourt says, “they understand the process of being a student and working at the same time. And if you find yourself wanting to try something new, their transfer policy allows you to try different opportunities. If you feel good, you do good. And that’s what I get from Northside.”

Looking ahead, Reyna is excited about her future at Northside. She hopes to continue working in the Bone Marrow Transplant unit and to possibly explore other opportunities within the hospital. Her ultimate goal is to become a nurse practitioner, and she knows that Northside will support her in achieving that goal.

Northside’s commitment to its employees has not gone unnoticed. In 2022, the hospital was recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in several categories by workplace culture and compensation monitoring site Comparably. Northside placed among the top large employers nationwide in categories such as Best Places to Work in Atlanta, Best Career Growth, Best Company Outlook, Best Company for Women, Best Company for Diversity, and Happiest Employees.

Betancourt’s story is a testament to the power of hard work and the importance of having a supportive employer. With graduation just a few months away, she is excited to take the next step in her career as a nurse at Northside Hospital Atlanta. She knows that she has a bright future ahead of her, and she’s grateful for the opportunities that Northside has provided.

Betancourt’s guide to her Atlanta:

Best way to get fresh air: A family hike - “I love hiking! I love to exercise and it’s the perfect way to wear out the kids.”

Favorite way to meet new people: Volunteer - “I’m a social butterfly and a volunteer junkie! I’m the president of my nursing club at school.”

Go-to restaurant: Shogun Steakhouse, Seafood & Sushi - “Asian restaurants are my favorite! I’m obsessed.”

Northside holds numerous hiring events each month. If you’re ready to #LookToNorthside, you can find out about their upcoming events HERE.

Northside Hospital: Look to Northside

Locations: Multiple locations; Website: jobs.northside.com; Social: LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, Facebook, Instagram and Youtube; Contact: 404-851-8000