[black small square] Reading Ms. Brooke's editorial, I felt as if I were going back to the 1970s, when I first became a nurse. It takes much more to be a nurse than wearing white. To act or be professional requires confidence.

I have an associate's degree, am working on my baccalaureate degree, and hope to continue with my master's. But I'd gladly go toe-to-toe with anyone with a higher degree today. I know my field, and I'm proud of how I act and conduct myself. I need no one to tell me I'm a great nurse because of a white uniform or several initials behind my name.

-CINDY ACHILLES, RN

St. Louis, Mo.