Halie Souza, a 2019 graduate of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), has taken her passion for helping others and turned it into a flourishing career as a Registered Nurse. From her early days as a student in Pahrump to her current position in a bustling Emergency Room in downtown Nashville, Halie’s journey is a testament to her dedication, and unwavering commitment to her patients and community.
Halie’s time at PVHS was filled with memorable experiences that she still cherishes today. Among her fondest memories is participating in the unique and entertaining “donkey basketball” event with her senior friends. This quirky and fun event allowed Halie and her classmates to let loose, have fun, and connect with the community in a lighthearted way. But Halie wasn’t just about having fun; she was also a dedicated athlete. One of her proudest high school moments was scoring two crucial goals in the regional soccer game during her senior year, which propelled her team to the state championships.
Immediately after graduating from PVHS, Halie set her sights on pursuing a career in nursing. She enrolled at Dixie State University, now known as Utah Tech University, where she began taking the necessary prerequisite courses for nursing school. With a clear goal in mind, Halie worked tirelessly through her coursework and eventually gained admission to nursing school, where she would earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in Public Health.
The inspiration to become a nurse came from a deeply personal experience. At just seven years old, Halie underwent a traumatic appendectomy. While the experience itself was frightening, it was during this time that she met a nurse named Gretchen, whose compassion and dedication left a lasting impression on her. “Gretchen forever changed my life,” Halie recalls. “I knew I wanted to be just like her when I was older and become a nurse.” This pivotal moment shaped Halie’s future, guiding her toward a career where she could provide the same level of care and comfort to others that she received during her own time of need.
Halie’s journey to becoming a Registered Nurse was not without its challenges. As a first-generation college student, she faced the daunting task of navigating higher education without the guidance of family members who had gone before her. “I had no idea what I was doing and how college worked,” Halie admits. “I had to figure the ropes out all on my own with trial and error.” Despite these challenges, Halie persevered, working hard to balance her job and studies. She often found herself in tutoring sessions, determined to master the material and succeed in her courses. Her dedication paid off when she was accepted into nursing school on her first attempt, despite fierce competition, and graduated at the top of her class.
After earning her nursing degree, Halie’s career quickly took off. At the age of 22, she became a Registered Nurse and immediately began gaining hands-on experience through a nurse apprenticeship. This opportunity allowed her to transition smoothly into the demanding world of nursing. Halie’s commitment to her patients led her to obtain her chemotherapy license, enabling her to care for some of the sickest patients in the oncology department. Her work in oncology was both challenging and rewarding, but Halie felt called to take on new challenges and recently transitioned to working in the fast-paced environment of an Emergency Room in downtown Nashville.
Throughout her career, Halie has learned the importance of compassion and building trust with her patients. “Treat everyone like they’re your loved one,” she advises, emphasizing the significance of understanding and empathy in nursing. Halie enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level, discussing more than just their medical needs, which helps strengthen the bond between nurse and patient. She believes that this approach not only enhances the patient’s experience but also allows her to be a more effective caregiver.
Despite her busy career, Halie remains deeply connected to her roots in Pahrump. She frequently returns home to visit her high school friends and teachers, maintaining the relationships that have been so important to her. Halie credits her mother as the biggest influence in her life, teaching her the value of hard work and determination. “My momma will forever be my biggest impact,” Halie says. “She taught me how to work hard at a young age and that I could do anything I put my mind to.” Halie also acknowledges the crucial roles played by her teachers, particularly Ms. Lisa Hamrick and Mrs. Jackie Bridges, who guided and supported her throughout her academic journey.
In addition to her work as a nurse, Halie has developed a passion for bodybuilding. She recently competed in an IFBB pro show, where she placed first and qualified for a national title. Halie is excited to continue her bodybuilding journey and is currently working with her coach to prepare for the national competition. “I love to push myself to extremes,” she says, reflecting on the discipline and dedication that bodybuilding requires.
Looking to the future, Halie has ambitious goals. She is considering returning to school to pursue a master’s degree or even a doctorate, with the possibility of becoming a travel nurse to explore new places and experiences. For now, however, she is focused on continuing to excel in her current role in the Emergency Room, where she is making a difference in the lives of her patients every day.
Halie remains grateful to the people of Pahrump who supported her along the way, and she is determined to give back to others through her work as a nurse and her involvement in bodybuilding. “Thank you to everyone in Pahrump for helping me get to where I am,” Halie says. “I wouldn’t be anywhere without our amazing hometown.”
