Why I Came, Why I Stayed: Annie Oden leaves work each day knowing that she's made a difference

In “Why I Came, Why I Stayed,” you’ll get to know people who are making a difference every day at Methodist and how they contribute to providing The Meaning of Care. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Annie Oden, BSN, RN, CDP, CRRN
Acute Rehabilitation Registered Nurse
Methodist Hospital

Tell us more about yourself.

For as long as I can remember, my answer to the question of, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” was always “A nurse.” I’m originally from Sioux City, Iowa, but moved to Omaha after graduating from high school in 2017 to attend college and be closer to my grandparents. I worked as a CNA in skilled nursing facilities from 2017 to 2022 and graduated with my nursing degree from Nebraska Methodist College in December 2022. 

While in college, I met my husband Tim, who is originally from Omaha, and we got married in July 2023. We now have two Jack Russell terriers who constantly keep us on our toes, and we’re expecting our first child this summer. We love going to Columbia, Missouri, to watch Missouri Tigers football, watching movies and spending time with our families. 

In my last semester of nursing school, I precepted on the inpatient acute rehabilitation floor at Methodist Hospital and was offered a job prior to graduation. I’ve now been working full time on that floor for a little over three years. 

What brought you to Methodist?

I remember being a nursing student and being scared out of my mind to come to clinicals. However, the staff at Methodist Hospital was supportive and helped make sure I was able to learn and be involved in everything that I could be. It’s evident that this is a health system that values its nurses and encourages professional development. 

What’s kept you here?

One of the most important things that someone needs to be successful in their job is support. At Methodist, you truly are supported by not only your coworkers but also the people in management. The biggest thing that keeps me coming back is the fact that I love what I do. I feel like what I do here matters, and I leave work each day knowing I made a difference. 

Do you have any favorite Methodist memories?

My favorite memories always become the success stories that occur on our floor. Our patients are typically here for weeks, sometimes months, and come to us not being able to care for themselves. Being able to watch them get stronger and become more independent always brings me so much joy, especially when we get to watch them walk out of the hospital. If you’ve ever been on 4 South when we have a discharge, you know we make a big deal out of it with what we call a “clap out” to show how excited and proud we are. 

Have you had a mentor or colleague who has stood out during your time at Methodist?

When I was a student, I distinctly remember a charge nurse on my unit named Kayla Munter who was always very welcoming and friendly. Once I became a full-time employee, she was very encouraging, never made me feel like I was stupid for not knowing things and was a great resource.

What should people know about Methodist?

When you work at Methodist, you feel like you’re part of a community. It’s very clear that the people who work here truly love and care about what they do. There’s always someone willing to help, and you never feel like you’re on your own.