Background: Recent data reported by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing suggest that nursing education is experiencing a continued increase in applicants. However, because of a faculty shortage, many qualified students are denied enrollment. Strategies that would encourage individuals to consider a career in nursing education would somewhat alleviate applicant restrictions.
Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted exploring experienced baccalaureate educators' perspectives. Questions were posed about their role experiences. Analysis was conducted with van Manen's procedural steps for examination.
Results: Emergent themes were identified. These themes, reflective of the educators' experience, offer insight and guidance to novice educators striving for success.
Conclusion: To alleviate the nursing shortage, increased efforts should be directed toward encouraging qualified individuals to pursue a career as a nurse educator and mentoring those who are novices. The wisdom gleaned from experienced nurse educators may help achieve these goals.
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