1. Tell us about your experience putting together your portfolio for the AL-CIP?
Putting together my portfolio for the Advanced Leadership in Infection Prevention (AL-CIP) credential was a valuable experience. It required more than simply listing past projects; I had to evaluate each initiative through a leadership lens—examining how I influenced outcomes, guided teams, built stakeholder engagement, and drove sustainable improvements. Aligning each project with the specific AL-CIP domain requirements challenged me to think critically about my decision-making processes, strategic contributions, and the broader impact of my work. While it was a significant undertaking, it gave me a deeper appreciation for the leadership journey I’ve been on and how those experiences have shaped my growth in infection prevention.
2. Can you provide tips for writing a successful rationale?
When writing a successful rationale, I found it helpful to use a clear structure with headings to guide the narrative. I began each one with an introduction to the project and the context, followed by “my why” to explain why the project mattered to me and how it aligned with my professional values and goals. I then described my involvement in detail—highlighting my roles, tasks, and leadership contributions—before addressing the challenges faced and how they were managed. I concluded each rationale with the outcomes and impact of the project, as well as lessons learned. To strengthen alignment with the AL-CIP requirements, I added a final sentence that explicitly explained why I believed the project met the specific domain criteria. This helped ensure clarity and focus, and made it easier for reviewers to understand how the project demonstrated advanced leadership in infection prevention.
3. What advice would you give to someone considering the AL-CIP?
My advice to anyone considering the AL-CIP is simple: don’t hold back—just organize your work, your thoughts, and go for it. It can feel overwhelming at first, but once you start mapping out your experiences, you’ll realize just how much valuable work you've done. Every project—no matter how large or small—has the potential to demonstrate leadership and impact. Be honest about your role, reflect on your motivation, and don’t underestimate the value of your contributions. The process is as much about growth and reflection as it is about documentation. Trust your experience, stay organized, and take the leap—you’ll be glad you did.
4. What does earning your AL-CIP mean to you?
Earning my AL-CIP is a significant professional milestone and a meaningful accomplishment in my career. It represents not only my commitment to infection prevention but also my dedication to continuous learning and growth as a leader. For me, the credential is more than just a title—it signifies confidence in my abilities, recognition of the leadership I've demonstrated, and a validation of the impact I've made through my work. It’s a reflection of the journey I've taken, the challenges I’ve navigated, and the progress I continue to strive for in advancing safe, evidence-based practices.