Wildcat Nurse Spotlight: Brayton Amidon, PhD candidate

By Gawain Douglas, UArizona Health Sciences Office of Communications

Meet Brayton Amidon, a University of Arizona College of Nursing doctoral candidate who, for his dissertation, researched and analyzed state-level data to compare outcomes and evaluate a proposed federal policy that would mandate nurse-to-patient staffing ratios. He will be hooded during the spring convocation on May 9.

Brayton grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, and lives in Oklahoma City, where he is on the faculty of the University of Oklahoma College of Nursing. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing from Texas A&M University and is proud to be earning his doctorate from UArizona, a well-respected institution that prioritizes quality education and cutting-edge nursing science.

Brayton recently answered some questions about his time at the UArizona College of Nursing.

What led you to pursue a career in nursing?

I have always had an interest in health care. I was excited about the opportunity to positively impact people’s lives at some of their most vulnerable moments. Additionally, there are countless career opportunities in nursing. Nurses are at the forefront of health care change, and being part of that is exciting.

Why did you choose the UArizona College of Nursing to pursue your studies?

When I was looking at PhD programs across the nation, the University of Arizona College of Nursing stood out as a top choice. I was impressed with the curriculum that focused on preparing budding nurse-scientists for their future roles. Additionally, the mission and core values of the college resonated with me. After my very first conversation with the PhD program director, I knew the university was where I wanted to pursue my PhD. I have been so pleased with my decision. From my first Resident Intensive Summer Experience to my dissertation defense, I have been impressed with the expertise and level of commitment from the faculty. 

What’s your biggest takeaway from your time in the doctoral program?

One of my biggest takeaways from the PhD program is that you truly can accomplish anything that you put your mind to. There were many times when I was overwhelmed with a full-time doctoral program added on to an already full plate. But this proved to me that if I keep at it and put the effort into it, I can accomplish my goals. I also had the honor to serve on the dean’s search committee. Working with the college and university administration to select the next dean was such a privilege and showed me the commitment the university has to making the College of Nursing the best that it can be.

What do you remember as the biggest challenge for you in the program?

I started the PhD program in fall 2020 in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, during my time in the program, I accepted a new job and moved four times. So, there were a lot of personal challenges that happened in addition to the work in the PhD program. That being said, the faculty and my cohort at UArizona were always there to offer support. 

Do you have any advice for students following in your footsteps?

My first piece of advice is to apply! According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing’s 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey, less than 1% of nurses hold a PhD. Our profession needs more PhD prepared nurses to generate and disseminate nursing knowledge. I highly recommend the UArizona Nursing PhD program. I have been extremely impressed with the curriculum, the opportunities provided and the dedicated faculty. Beginning a PhD program can be intimidating, but know that the faculty are there to support and guide you through the process. 

What does it mean to you to be a Wildcat nurse?

I am so excited to join the ranks of UArizona College of Nursing alumni. I have learned from and worked with several UArizona alums and have been consistently impressed with Wildcat nurses. I am excited to be a part of the legacy that dates to the 1950s. I am proud to be graduating from such a well-respected institution that prioritizes quality education and cutting-edge nursing science.

What are your postgraduation plans?

My long-term career aspiration is to lead a college of nursing as a dean. More immediately, I would like to continue in my role as a faculty member, develop my research program and work toward becoming a tenured faculty member.