New Student Orientation: New Nursing Cohort Gathers to Begin Their BYU College of Nursing Journey

At 8 a.m. on the last day of summer break, sixty-four devoted undergraduates came to campus ready to begin their journey with BYU College of Nursing.

These students comprise the new nursing cohort, and they gathered last month at the Hinckley Center for their new student orientation. This all-day event is intended to introduce new students to the program and give them the tools to succeed.

The new cohort consists of 64 students. Their average age is 22 with an average of 18 months of healthcare experience. All together, they represent 14 different states and speak 10 different languages.

The new student orientation marked the first time all of them met together.

The event packed a lot into one day. Presenters taught about procedures, professionalism, and practices to help students sail as smoothly as possible through the program. Students were introduced to different aspects of the program such as labs, research, and online resources. Every aspect was deliberately tied back to the college values: faith in Christ, belonging, excellence, accountability, and Christlike service. Faculty shared personal experiences, illustrating college values in real nursing environments.

Sophie Gill, a member of the incoming cohort, said, "It was so cool to meet all of the amazing professors and learn about their work and how they are making a difference. It got me really excited to move forward in the program and learn from them."

Students left not only better prepared, but excited for the opportunities ahead of them.

Another aspect that students appreciated was getting to know their classmates. Throughout the day, they took interspersed breaks to participate in activities and connect with each other. These connections were a source of confidence for the students.

One student commented, "It's so nice to get to know my cohort. These are the people I'm going to spend the next two years with."

Students were excited to meet the people who will become such a big part of their lives. Over the next two years, they will all lean on each other for help and support through the program. Getting a jump start on those relationships in a casual setting was a great asset. They began friendships that will continue throughout their schooling and maybe their entire lives.

The new cohort is off to an auspicious start, showing themselves to be excited, friendly, and focused on Christ. Welcome, class of '28!