In today’s evolving workforce, professionalism is more than just a buzzword—it is the foundation of career success. Whether in the Health and Medical Professions (HMP) or the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN), professionalism manifests in unique yet equally critical ways. Reflecting on my experiences and a recent conversation with an ICU nurse, I have come to appreciate how professionalism shapes workplace culture, career progression, and personal growth.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) defines professionalism as the ability to act with integrity, accountability, and preparedness while maintaining a positive personal brand. Professionalism is not just about appearance or etiquette—it is about dependability, attention to detail, and dedication to one’s role. These core principles apply universally, but their interpretation varies across industries. Behaviors that indicate professionalism include punctuality, effective communication, adaptability, and ethical conduct. Being on time reflects commitment and respect for others’ schedules, while clarity and respect in speech and writing foster positive interactions. Remaining flexible in the face of change showcases resilience, and upholding honesty and responsibility strengthens trust in professional environments.
On the other hand, a lack of professionalism can be detrimental. Tardiness, poor communication, resistance to change, and unethical behavior can erode trust and limit career opportunities. In professional settings, individuals who neglect their responsibilities or exhibit unprofessional conduct risk not only their own reputation but also the credibility of their teams and organizations.
Professionalism in healthcare is deeply intertwined with patient care and ethical responsibility. Health professionals must embody integrity by upholding honesty in all interactions, demonstrate compassion toward patients, and prioritize patient needs over personal interests. Excellence is a critical factor in ensuring the highest quality of patient care, and collaboration is essential for engaging with interdisciplinary teams to optimize outcomes.
Conversation With Kandie: Former ICU nurse
My conversation with Kandie provided valuable insights into professionalism in the medical field. She emphasized that professionalism is about maturity, preparedness, and knowing how to use resources effectively. In high-stress environments like the ICU, emotional control and accountability are essential. Healthcare professionals must remain composed and professional, even when personal relationships with colleagues or patients are challenging.
Kandie’s perspective reinforced that professionalism in medicine is not innate but learned. New hires enter with varying levels of professionalism, shaped by their upbringing, education, and past experiences. However, the expectation remains that they will quickly adapt and uphold the standards of their profession.
Unlike healthcare, where professionalism is often explicitly defined, careers in the physical and natural sciences assume an inherent understanding of professional behavior. Professionals in this field focus on applying logical reasoning to solve complex problems, ensuring research integrity, and staying updated on scientific advancements. Ethical conduct remains a fundamental principle, as does collaboration with peers to share knowledge and foster innovation. Scientists must also develop strong communication skills to effectively present research findings to diverse audiences.
In science, professionalism is demonstrated through meticulous research, ethical decision-making, and adherence to industry standards. Unlike healthcare professionals who interact directly with patients, scientists must maintain professionalism by ensuring data integrity and credibility in their work. Unethical behavior—such as falsifying data or neglecting safety protocols—can have far-reaching consequences in the scientific community.
My Reflection
One key takeaway from my conversation with Kandie is that professionalism is shaped early in life. Her father’s business instilled in her a sense of responsibility and workplace etiquette. Similarly, my experiences in both the HMP and PHN fields have taught me the importance of maintaining professionalism across different settings. Observing seasoned professionals, asking questions, and actively participating in professional development opportunities are crucial steps in building a strong foundation. Learning professionalism is not about perfection but about continuous improvement and adapting to new challenges.
Professionalism is a universal principle, yet it is applied differently across career communities. In healthcare, professionalism is largely patient-centered, requiring a strong ethical framework and interpersonal skills. In the sciences, professionalism is grounded in research integrity, analytical precision, and effective knowledge dissemination. Regardless of the field, professionalism is an essential trait that enhances workplace culture, strengthens relationships, and fosters career growth.
As I continue my professional journey, I recognize that professionalism is more than just a set of behaviors—it is a mindset. It is about showing up prepared, treating others with respect, and striving for excellence in everything I do. Whether in a hospital, research lab, or academic setting, professionalism will remain a guiding principle in my career and beyond.
Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.