1. Tell us about your experience putting together your portfolio for the AL-CIP?
Putting together my portfolio was definitely a heavy lift, but also very rewarding. It gave me the opportunity to reflect on the projects, collaborations, and teams I’ve been fortunate to be a part of over the years. Looking back, it was eye-opening to see how those experiences have shaped my work in Infection Prevention. It became more than just a requirement. It was a meaningful reminder of the growth that comes with staying engaged in the field and learning alongside others.
2. Can you provide tips for writing a successful rationale?
The most challenging part was recalling all the projects I’ve been involved in and deciding where they best fit across the domains. What helped me most was starting with a clear outline. From there, I created a consistent structure for each rationale using the same headings. That approach kept everything organized, made the writing process more efficient, and ensured my content stayed focused and aligned.
3. What advice would you give to someone considering the AL-CIP?
Go for it but go in with a plan. Start tracking your work early, even before you officially begin the process. Keep a running list of projects, outcomes (very important), and your specific contributions. Don’t underestimate the time commitment but also don’t let it intimidate you. Break it into manageable pieces, stay organized, and remember that you likely have more experience than you realize.
4. What does earning your AL-CIP mean to you?
Earning my AL-CIP is both an honor and a milestone. It represents years of dedication, continuous learning, and a commitment to advancing Infection Prevention. More than anything, it validates the work I’ve done and the impact I strive to make every day. It’s something I’m truly proud of and it motivates me to keep pushing the profession forward.
