Nursing department showcases experiences

ADMITTED STUDENTS GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE — Hope College’s nursing department students, alumni and faculty come together to showcase the Hope nursing program for future students. (Hope College)

Hope College’s nursing department hosts Nursing Showcases for visiting prospects. Admitted students had a chance at an in-depth look into Hope’s nursing program. Hope wanted to give visiting high-school students the opportunity to hear from current students and alumni, meet with the nursing faculty, participate in a nursing research class and tour the exceptional skills lab.

The department wanted admitted students to see why Hope is placing 100 percent of their graduates into nursing positions within the first year after graduating from Hope.

The event opened with registration, refreshments and a welcome to the students. There were many friendly faces excited to meet the students and parents. The events provided a student panel discussion, nursing showcase program overview and skill laboratory visit.

These visits are intended to prepare admitted students for a career as a highly competent, research-based nurse and give them the information and ability to learn through numerous hands-on experiences. Visitors were able to experience nursing classes that they would be taking within lecture halls, the state of the art simulation lab and Hope’s other varying practicum site locations.

In best efforts to prepare Hope’s future nurses, the department has a rigorous schedule that begins sophomore year for many students. Hope desires to place their nursing students in professional experience right away.

A luncheon with faculty,  current students and alumni followed. Admitted students were able to attend another panel led by nursing department alumni, a student research open house, academic information sessions and a wrap-up tour of the campus on Jan. 15, in Dimnent Chapel.