CELEBRATING THE NURSING PROGRAM

NDSU recently celebrated its' nursing program on September 14 with inducing a symbolic relationship to a students' commitment into their major, while they "uphold the highest standards of professionalism" (North Dakota University System | White Coat Ceremonies to welcome health professions students (ndus.edu)). According to NDSU, "during the ceremonies, we ask students to take an oath in pharmacy and a pledge in nursing to profess their responsibility and commitment to serve the public, the profession and their future patients. They will again take the oath or pledge when they graduate." This week I got the opportunity to talk with, Kendra Thoennes, second-year sophomore nursing student and interact with their thoughts on the ceremony, along with how she's enjoying being apart of the NDSU community.

QUESTIONAIRE

What is your favorite part about being a nursing student?

"My favorite thing about being a nursing student is learning new skills about being able to help people and practicing them as well throughout different courses/classes.

Why did you choose NDSU?

"I chose NDSU because they have a very respected nursing program along with personally having a liking for NDSU. Another perk is that it is close to home but also far enough away to be able to experience a life on my own."

What does the White Coat Ceremony mean to you?

"To me it signifies the next step into the nursing career and gives me a sense of pride as a student".

What is your personal opinion about being inducted into the White Coat Ceremony at NDSU?

"I think that it is very important and an honor to be able to stand up and receive it. As a nursing student, it is very difficult at times but the accomplishments are the most rewarding."

What are your plans after graduation?

"I plan to move back to my hometown and work for a couple years as an RN. Eventually, my goal is to go back to NDSU and get my degree as a Nurse Practitioner."

What is your favorite thing to do outside of school?

"I enjoy going back home and spending time with my family and significant other along with going on runs which helps me take my mind off things and enjoy nature."

After speaking with Kendra, she also included that she is apart of the National Guard specializing in being an 88Mike (Motor Transport Operator. According to the National Guard, "a Motor Transport Operators job duties include being able to operate all wheel vehicles and equipment over varied terrain and roadways, manage load, unload and safety of personnel being transported, oversee and check proper loading and unloading of cargo on vehicles and trailers, employ convoy defense techniques, identify, correct or report all vehicle deficiencies, and prepare vehicle for movement/shipment by air, rail or vessel" (Army National Guard - 88M Motor Transport Operator (Truck Driver)). Training for qualifying in these specialties is also very impressive. "Job training for a motor transport operator requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and six weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in the classroom, and part takes place in simulation; however, more than 200 training hours are spent in actual vehicles and field training environments" (Army National Guard - 88M Motor Transport Operator (Truck Driver)).

Getting into the feeling of being able to experience another students life is unimaginable. The reason being is because putting someone else's shoes on helps you see the world in a different perspective. I expect for anyone, or even everyone, to listen to someone and understand their background along with thoughts and feelings. In my opinion, focusing on yourself loses the attention from peers, friends, and family. Listening and Communication is top tier. Not saying that no-one has done it, but if you haven't I recommend trying.

To the readers, I want you to think about this long and hard. Choose a person that you would like to be (famous or non), if you were able to experience their life from their perspective. Would it make you rethink your own?