When crafting a nursing resume, it’s essential to highlight not only your professional experience but also your hobbies and interests.
This aspect of your resume can showcase your personality, demonstrate your commitment to the nursing field, and emphasize relevant skills.
Below, you’ll find a list of 16 hobbies and interests that are particularly beneficial for nursing professionals.

16 Hobbies and Interests for a Nursing Resume
1. Volunteering
Involvement in community health initiatives or local clinics demonstrates a commitment to helping others.
2. Patient Advocacy
Engaging in patient rights and healthcare access initiatives shows dedication to ethical healthcare practices.
3. Yoga and Meditation
Practicing yoga or meditation can reflect your emphasis on mental health and personal well-being.
4. Reading Medical Journals
Keeping up with the latest research highlights a commitment to ongoing education and best practices in nursing.
5. Cooking Healthy Meals
Showcases a passion for nutrition and wellness, an essential aspect of patient care.
6. Running or Participating in Marathons
Highlights discipline, endurance, and the ability to set and achieve personal goals.
7. Arts and Crafts
Engaging in creative pursuits can exhibit your ability to manage stress and express yourself creatively.
8. First Aid and CPR Training
Continuous education in life-saving skills reflects your commitment to safety and preparedness.
9. Traveling
Experience with diverse cultures may improve communication skills and cultural competence in patient care.
10. Team Sports
Participation in team activities shows your ability to work collaboratively, which is vital in healthcare settings.
11. Gardening
Reflects an interest in holistic health and nature, which can contribute to a calming environment for patients.
12. Public Speaking or Workshops
Engaging in educational outreach indicates confidence and a desire to share knowledge.
13. Animal Care
Volunteering at animal shelters or caring for pets demonstrates compassion and responsibility.
14. Mental Health Advocacy
Participating in mental health awareness initiatives can showcase your understanding of this important aspect of nursing.
15. Photography
A hobby that stimulates creativity, it can also be used for documentation in healthcare narratives.
16. Fitness Activities
Regular participation in fitness classes or sports emphasizes a commitment to personal health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why should I include hobbies on my nursing resume?
Including hobbies on your resume can provide insight into your personality. It can demonstrate transferable skills. It also showcases your commitment to health and wellness.
2. What hobbies are most relevant to nursing?
Hobbies that emphasize teamwork, health advocacy, mental well-being, and ongoing education are highly relevant. Examples include volunteering, patient advocacy, and fitness activities.
3. How can my hobbies demonstrate my skills as a nurse?
Hobbies can illustrate qualities such as compassion, stress management, discipline, and effective communication. These qualities are all valuable in a nursing career.
4. Should I tailor my hobbies to the specific nursing job?
Absolutely! Tailor your hobbies to align with the values of the specific healthcare institution. This alignment can help you stand out as a candidate.
5. Can personal interests impact my chances of getting hired?
Yes, personal interests that reflect your commitment to health, teamwork, and community involvement can positively influence employers’ perceptions of you.
Conclusion
Incorporating relevant hobbies and interests into your nursing resume can set you apart from other candidates. By showcasing activities that align with your professional values and skills, you not only enrich your resume but also present yourself as a well-rounded and engaged individual.
Comments
Maria S.: “I never thought about including hobbies on my resume until I read this. I’ll definitely add my volunteer work!”
James R.: “Great suggestions! I’m a big fan of cooking healthy meals, and I think that will make a great addition to my resume.”
Linda C.: “I appreciate the emphasis on mental health advocacy. It’s an area I’m passionate about and it’s helpful to know how to represent it!”
Tom A.: “Participating in team sports really highlights my teamwork skills. I’m going to add that right away!”