Opinion| My experience as a PV S.T.E.P. intern

In this role, I worked in the Office of Admissions and Student Support Services under the mentorship of Dr. Forrest Smith, director of Admissions and Student Support Services. Her guidance and advice were significant to my growth during this experience. Dr. Smith taught me many essential skills, from the importance of wording in emails to having the confidence to trust my knowledge and speak from my experience as a student.

The goal of this project was multifaceted. It aimed to help students further develop their skills in event planning, communication, and problem-solving. Additionally, working alongside faculty provided an opportunity to expand my professional networks and establish valuable connections. Overall, the project aimed to create a comprehensive learning experience that would contribute to my academic and professional development.

As part of the internship, one of the key projects was to plan, implement, and evaluate the 2024 PV Summer STEM Camp High School Tour of the College of Nursing. This involved various tasks and coordination efforts to ensure the camp’s success.

To implement the STEM Camp for High School Students, I created a detailed action plan. This document outlined the faculty contacts, food options, decorations, giveaways, presentations, and the point of contact for table arrangements. It also included a draft of an invitation letter for the speakers. By setting specific deadlines for each section, I ensured that most of my goals were met. Effective communication with the faculty about the event’s details facilitated their participation. During these times, high school students engaged with nursing students about college life, scholarships, and study habits.

The project outcome was highly successful. Over 65 students attended the event, where they learned about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, toured the building, and participated in a heart-healthy diet demonstration from PVAMU Wellness in Houston featuring a strawberry orange smoothie. To evaluate the event’s execution, I created a survey demonstrating many positive responses from the attendees. Students highlighted the food demonstration, the building tour, and interactions with current student nurses as their favorite parts. Being part of this event made me realize that the contributions of the faculty, the volunteer student nurses, and the outstanding presentation by Ms. Whitney Mack, the program coordinator of PVAMU Wellness in Houston, were crucial to the event’s success.

I believe the program’s objective was met. This opportunity broadened my perspective of the nursing field, and I realized there is more to nursing than just being in the hospital.

Then, a couple of weeks later, we had a similar event intended for the first-year students in the Summer Bridge Program. They toured the building, did presentations about the different specialties in Nursing, and learned how to don personal protective equipment and how to administer subcutaneous injections. While speaking to them, I shared insights from my recent STEM Camp experience to help them prepare for Nursing school and develop leadership skills on campus.

Besides working in the Office of Admissions and Student Support Services, one of my duties was to clear out and organize the Copy Room. In the process, I discovered various items such as decorations, board games, and files that contained memories from past students and events, like the Spring Fling, which was popular in the College of Nursing. This motivated me to put these items to good use. Inspired by the students and staff who previously decorated and created memorable experiences, I wanted to revive some of those traditions to help current students feel more connected to the College of Nursing.

For example, I plan to use some of the decorations, which are in perfect condition, to beautify the ninth floor. Similarly, the borders and wallpapers I found can be used to decorate the bulletin boards with motivational quotes and information about the school. Although it took a couple of weeks to complete this project, I am happy to have had the opportunity to organize this room. It allowed me to appreciate the College of Nursing’s past and recognize how far it has come, thanks to the efforts of previous students, faculty and staff who went the extra mile to enhance the school’s appearance despite their busy schedules. Overall, I grew professionally and developed a deep appreciation for everyone who has cared for our school.

Furthermore, this internship has significantly boosted my confidence in communication, teamwork, and collaboration, all essential skills in the Nursing profession. I believe the program was successful in every way. The experience allowed me to grow and learn significantly, thanks to Dr. Forrest Smith, who trusted my creativity and provided the necessary resources and guidance. This knowledge I have gained from the PV STEP Program will be crucial in future leadership positions.

Lastly, I would love to participate in this program once more. However, I also believe it is important for other students to have this opportunity. While I would not decline the chance to participate again, I would be eager to help and guide future nursing students interested in applying for this program.

Arianna Williams-Balmaceda