Meet Redeat, An O.R. Nurse Who Lives to Travel - Part I

An inspirational RN tells us how she got started traveling, assignments with the best vibes, and her traveling 'must-haves'.

It goes without saying that Redeat’s Recruiter knew her well, but believe it or not, the rest of us at American Traveler first ‘saw’ Redeat on Instagram. In addition to being a Registered Nurse, Redeat is a talented photographer and blogger. We asked her to share her experiences with us. We think you’ll be inspired -- and impressed!

My name is Redeat -- pronounced “Red8.” Most of my co-workers call me “Red.” I am an Operating Room RN, currently on assignment in Boston, Massachusetts. This is my third assignment with American Traveler. I am originally from Ethiopia, but I grew up in Chicago. Surprise! I take my longboard with me everywhere I travel, and sometimes I ride it to work.

How did you find out about American Traveler?

Once I made up my mind to be a travel nurse, I started searching for an agency. I found out about American Traveler online. After reading some reviews and about other people’s experiences with the company, I decided to get started.

Why did you decide to start traveling?

I've always moved around, and I love traveling. The idea of working and traveling at the same time was very appealing. I've been lucky to be able to do two things I love: working with children and traveling.

What has been your favorite experience as a traveler?

I've been lucky that all my travel nurse experience has been super positive. I've made new friends and had a great time at every hospital I've been so far.

If I had to pick my favorite, I guess my co-workers from Austin Texas were just fun people to work with. I don't think I ever went home without laughing out loud. The work vibe was great and everyone was passionate about taking care of the patients and helping each other. The camaraderie was amazing. I can say the same about my assignment in Dallas as well. Even now that I'm only a few weeks into my new assignment in Boston, I sense people here have the same vibe as well.

How did you choose your current assignment? Were you looking for a specific location or hospital type?

I love working with children. My current assignment is in one of the nation’s best hospitals for children. I've always wondered what it would be like to work there. So when Kristin, my Recruiter, told me they had an opening, I went for it.

What is your housing preference? Apartment, hotel, RV, tiny home, home share?

I prefer a home share like AirBnB since I don't have a car. Before I go to my assignment, I do my research and look for a place within walking distance from the hospital. I usually book my stay for a week or so just to get a feel. If I end up liking the place, I may ask to stay longer and pay monthly rent. It worked out perfectly for me in Austin and Boston.

What is the best part about the places where you’ve had assignments?

Boston in Spring is beautiful. I got there at the beginning of May. All the flowers were blossoming, and the temperature was perfect. Basically, I like to travel to places where I can have good weather. Like Austin in the Winter.

What is the best thing about working with your Recruiter?

Kristin is the best. She communicates well; she's friendly; she checks up on me and follows up on everything. In-between assignments, I went to Italy for two months. While I was in Italy, Kristin worked out every detail for my next position. I even had my phone interview while I was in Rome. When I got back home, I was able to finish up all the paperwork without any problem and start on time. I was so happy with how everything worked out perfectly.

Huge thanks to Kristin and the dedicated team at American Traveler for allowing me to do what I love.

What are your plans for your next adventure?

Maybe Denver. I enjoy the outdoors, so I’m trying to plan the best time of year to visit Colorado. I’d really love to go hiking and outdoor climbing.

What are your nurse bag essentials?

My Miir water bottle, my lanyard (with my ID badge, pen, scissors, and tape), Nivea chapstick, my phone, and my wallet.

What are the 'must have' items that you take on every travel assignment?

My Fjallraven backpack, longboard, laptop, The Prophet by Khalil Gibran, and my Bible.

What has driven your passion for nursing?

I love helping people, especially children.

Redeat has more to tell us about how she got started in nursing and why she chose to be a traveling OR nurse. Her story isn't typical, but then, whose is? Make sure you finish reading her story in Part 2 !

Last Modified On: Jun 12, 2018

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