Nuovo had the pleasure of chatting with Anna Heid - South Carolina It Girl! A recent graduate from the University of South Carolina’s nursing program, Heid has seamlessly blended her passion for healthcare with her vibrant personality. Originally from Atlanta, she found her second family on the USC cheer team and has since built an engaging online community where she shares the ups and downs of her life as a nurse and content creator. Join us as Heid reflects on her journey, favorite SC local spots, unforgettable patient stories, and her exciting plans for the future!
What inspired you to choose nursing as a career at the University of South Carolina?
I knew I wanted to work with kids, so it was either nursing or teaching! I also had salmonella in high school and got really close with my nurse.
What were some of the most significant challenges you faced while juggling cheerleading and nursing coursework?
Going straight from school to practice and still having to do homework afterward—lots of late nights.
What inspired your move to New York City after graduation?
I wanted to try the big city life! I always thought it’d be LA, but I did a trial run over the summer and didn’t love it. My roommate moved there, asked if I wanted to come with, and the rest is history!
What were some of your favorite places to explore in NYC, like coffee shops or boutiques?
Sweetgreen salads, La Colombe coffee, La Pecora Bianca pasta, Central Park, West Side Highway to walk, Blank Street Coffee.
How do you manage your responsibilities as a nurse alongside your content creation?
I include content creation in my nursing career (in a responsible and respectful way). I was even editing TikToks on my subway ride to my night shift.
Can you share a memorable experience from your nursing career that stands out to you?
I got really close with this one patient I had; she was a teenage girl, and we had a blast every time I worked. I saw her get better each and every day and supported her through every step. We spent so many nights together and had a bittersweet goodbye.
What advice would you offer to nursing students or recent graduates who want to document their journey online?
Keep going! The work truly is worth it. Also, always document if you're comfortable; it can inspire so many people and hold you accountable—I always feel prouder when I document for some reason.
What are your personal and professional goals for the next few years?
Personally, I want to not care as much about what others think and live peacefully. Professionally, I want to open my own med spa and work part-time there, all while capturing it for my social media.
Are there any upcoming projects or travel plans that you're particularly excited about?
I have a super fun tropical vacation coming up to Saint Lucia, Knoxville, and Saint Maarten planned for the next few months!
What are five travel essentials you always pack?
Charger, vlog camera, book, Glossier chapstick, Tarte bronzing drops.
Can you share five of your favorite beauty products?
Rare Beauty blush, Dior blush, Supergoop Glow Screen, Fenty Skin makeup cleanser, Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum cream.
What’s your go-to fall baking recipe?
Banana bread!
What does your perfect weekend in Charleston look like?
A morning workout at Jibe Cycle or Form Pilates, coffee and breakfast at Island Provisions, a boat day with friends, and drinks at sunset on Shem Creek.
For someone who hasn’t been to Charleston, what do you recommend they do/see?
Lots of fun markets on the weekend, Second Sunday if it’s that time, rooftop drinks at Ritual, Baba's coffee, The Works hot yoga, Shem Creek for drinks, and the beach, of course!