"There is a desperate need to increase the number of minority nurses," Gipson-Jones said.
Question: How did you get involved in the field of nursing research?
Answer: It is my tie to the community. I'm really committed to the African American community. I do that via my church work as well as other community-service projects I belong to.
I think the primary thing that drew me to this type of research is growing up somewhat disadvantaged myself. I grew up in the projects and my education process within the context of the socioeconomic system was deprived. Not losing sight of that and knowing the background and number of issues facing individuals that live in disadvantaged areas helped me to focus on issues that are pertinent to that community.
Q: Is this a growing career field?
A: It is. There are many opportunities in nursing. The choices are very diverse in what you can do, such as research, clinician, education or administration.
Q: What kind of research are you currently working on?
A: My current research examines depression as a serious mental illness and HIV among African American women between the ages of 24 and 56. That age group accounts for the highest incidence of new HIV cases in the U.S.
Q: Have you been involved in any significant studies in the past?
A: This is going to be my first look at this as my own independent research. My past research looks at retention and recruitment among African American nurses.
Q: What are your future goals?
A: To address depression within African American women as it relates to their HIV status. I also plan to develop culturally sensitive and tailored intervention for that same group and to implement those interventions within the African American community.
Q: Would you recommend this type of work to others as a career choice?
A: I would recommend it not just as a career choice, but also as a good opportunity to make a difference within populations that have disparities.
