Fellowship Programs: Reflections of an Advanced Practice Nurse Fellow

Newly graduated advanced practice nurses (APNs) often accept positions equipped only with brief, limited training and are expected to primarily learn on the job. APN fellowship programs, such as the oncology fellowship program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center (SCCC) in Florida, may be a solution to this problem; they provide in-depth training to APNs, offer support through open communication with preceptors, grant APNs opportunities to develop skills and confidence, and allow APNs the time to earn the trust of others at the institution and take on additional responsibilities. This article discusses such programs and focuses on the author’s experiences as a fellow at SCCC.