PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas – Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate Mattison Sims always had a passion for dance, in addition to her passion for helping others. As far back as high school, she was recognized for her leadership skills while serving as a dance team captain. She continued that team leadership at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), where she served as an assistant captain of the Black Foxes dance team, even getting to perform with the Marching Storm Band at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2017.
“Being a part of the Marching Storm had a significant impact on my college experience. Not only did it bring me a numerous amount of opportunities and leadership skills and experience, but I gained over 300 family members as well,” said Sims, who received multiple awards for her creative involvement, including the For Greater Bands Visual Performer Award and the Dr. Margaret Sherrod Black Fox Award.
In addition to taking dance seriously, Sims took nursing seriously as well. She was a member of the Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and the National Honor Society for Collegiate Scholars. She was also a Bridge and GRIND Summer Pre-Nursing Program Scholar. She shared her experiences with other students to help them successfully navigate through the program.
“I am very excited about working as a nurse. I view nursing as a mission and my true calling and purpose. I am excited about being provided with the opportunity to aid vulnerable individuals in healing and restoration. My desire is to be the light and inspiration in so many lives. I am more than ready to save lives!” Sims said.
As an intern with Harris Health at Ben Taub Hospital, she got firsthand experience working with patients as a supplemental nurse technician. The intensive summer mentorship program paired her with an experienced nurse who helped guide her clinical skills development. Through that experience, she discovered a love for pediatric nursing.
“I’ve just been offered a job as a pediatric nurse through a new graduate nurse residency program. I will start following graduation and a passing score on the nursing licensure exam,” Sims said. “After developing my skills and experience, I plan to work as a school nurse while continuing my education in pursuit of a Master of Science in Nursing in order to work as a pediatric clinical nurse specialist. I have also been considering pursuing a career as a professor and faculty member in a family health department. My goal is to continuously elevate throughout the pediatric nursing specialty.”
In her recommendation of Sims, Clinical Assistant Professor Pamela Brandy-Webb wrote, “If I needed a nurse, I would trust Mattison to care for me as well as my family members.”
Sims chose PVAMU in part because its nursing program is recognized as one of the best in the nation. As a first-generation college student, she said her experience at PVAMU was filled with academic and networking opportunities that have laid a solid foundation for her future goals.
“Being a graduate of PVAMU can take you to many heights. Alumni will do everything in their power to see fellow alums succeed,” she said. “PVAMU truly Produces Productive People. We know how to work, succeed, and have a good time, too!”
By Jocelyn Kerr
-PVAMU-