Excited and eager to learn about their next steps in the program, 66 new nursing students gathered in their new student orientation. These students come from a variety of backgrounds across the United States and United Kingdom.
As with other semesters, Dean Lassetter encouraged the students to put their heart into their studies and go beyond just the normal things a student can do, promising that as they dedicate themselves to their studies, “it could rocket you to achievements and discoveries that you can’t even dream of right now.” She continued that “your work as a nursing student and as a nurse can and should benefit the world.”
Samantha Hansen, one of these new students, shared that she was inspired to study nursing because of her father’s example in his career. “I am just really excited to be able to put into practice what I've been dreaming about for as long as I can remember,” said Samantha. “I come from a healthcare family, so I grew up watching my dad and hearing all the stories of the difference he made along with his team. That inspired me.”
Her fellow classmates are also excited to be immersed in the nursing experience alongside friends in their cohort. “In the past, classes I would take had people who were interested in so many different things, but here, finally I’ll be in classes where we all want to do the same thing. We all want to go into nursing,” said Alyssa Smith.
Others look forward to how their previous experience in nursing can strengthen their skills. “I think for me, what really started my excitement about being a nurse is when I started working as a CNA,” said Mikayla Williams. “I liked seeing how much this career path really allows us to know the people we're caring for, our patients or whoever it is, and knowing that we can actually build a relationship with them.”
Another student, Abby Wright, has been working in the healthcare industry for about a year and is now transitioning to nursing. “I'm excited to see the nursing perspective, and see how nurses do things, and how we can go more in depth into patient care,” said Abby. “I want to help people and be more hands on and affect people's lives.”
Dean Lassetter finished with these remarks to the students. “As Dean, I sometimes am blessed to feel a small portion of Heavenly Father’s love, awareness and knowledge of each of you,” she started. “I know He loves you dearly. You will learn in unique and meaningful ways how to be the Savior’s hands.”
To the newest cohort, good luck in your studies this first semester of your BYU Nursing journey!