Student Organization Spotlight: Nursing Student Association
Are you interested in pursuing nursing as a career but not sure where to start? Are you interested in becoming part of a network of aspiring nursing students? The Nursing Student Association is the perfect place to explore your interests in nursing, expand your network, and gain professional skills. Continue reading to learn more about the organization!
Guest Blogger: Alyssa Vilda, President of the Nursing Student Association
What is the goal of your student organization?
To promote professional development of students interested in nursing as a profession, to promote nursing community involvement within the University and the local area, to encourage student participation in organization-sponsored activities, to bring professional issues in nursing to the attention of the University.
Who is welcome to join your student organization?
All Decker School of Nursing undergraduates are automatically part of the NSA. Any student interested in pursuing nursing is also welcome to join.
Why did you first join this student organization?
I was a freshman in Decker and knew I wanted to take a larger role within the small community of the Decker School of Nursing. I wanted to get to know my peers better, as well as students who were older than me and had more experience within the program. I loved the idea of connecting nursing students who are all going through the same thing, and fostering a greater sense of togetherness and mentorship. I took on the role as Freshman Class Representative, then later Sophomore Class Representative, then Vice President, and am now the President of the organization. It has been awesome watching the NSA grow over the years and continuing to create the tight knit community that Decker is.
What are some examples of events or programs that your student organization participates in or plans?
Professional development events (Summer job/externship event, resume workshop, LinkedIn workshop, alumni week), Buddy system (Mentor group of students freshmen-senior), social events (Tie dye, Apple picking, Decker Semi Formal, s’mores night), community events (Mindset/stress event, BU at the Mall Day, can drives, writing cards to nursing home residents), fundraisers (Decker apparel, restaurants)
As a student leader, how important is it for students to get involved on campus?
I think it is very important for students to become involved on campus. It gives students an opportunity to care about something outside of their course load, and also helps to foster meaningful connections and friendships. I am so grateful to have gotten to know so many Decker students of all class years from my involvement with the NSA, as well as closer with my professors. I think there is value in learning from the people around us, and loving what you do.
What skills do you feel members gain from being a part of your organization?
Professional skills (Interview skills, networking!), mentorship, communication, having fun outside of the difficulties of nursing school
