Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) is welcoming 47 students to its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program this fall, the largest nursing cohort in the program's history. The milestone reflects the college's continued expansion of opportunities to help meet Georgia's growing demand for healthcare professionals.
The milestone was evident as the students gathered for a two-day orientation before the start of classes on Aug.10.
"I'm excited and nervous," said Theodore Massou, a first-generation college student and the first in his family to pursue a nursing career. "I know I'll make lots of mistakes, but I'll finish strong."
Massou hopes to work in an emergency department or intensive care unit after graduation.
"We're proud to welcome each of you to the nursing program," said Dr. Paula Gordon, interim dean of the School of Health Sciences. "There were 198 applications, and each of you was selected, so congratulations. You're here because you've done the work."
Admission to GGC's nursing program is highly competitive. Students complete two years of prerequisite coursework, earn a qualifying score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam, submit faculty and professional references, and complete a competitive application process.
For GGC student Micaela Nieto of Lawrenceville, her decision to pursue nursing was inspired by a family experience.
"My cousin was in an accident and told me how the nurses in the ICU made such a difference, and that's what I want to do," she said.
Asked what it will take to complete the next four semesters, she smiled.
"Lots of energy drinks first," she laughed. "And a calendar to help me stay focused and organized."
Gordon encouraged the new cohort to rely on one another throughout the program.
"I tell all nursing students that this journey is four short semesters," she said. "Then you'll graduate with your bachelor's degree in nursing and be prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for your registered nurse license."
Buford resident Daniella Yoon, a fourth-semester nursing student, is serving as one of several mentors for the incoming class. She plans to work in a cardiac care unit after graduation.
"It's exciting to look back now to when I first started," she said. "I love GGC because of everyone's willingness to help. Nursing is more than being in class together. You get to know your classmates, spend time together after class, study for exams and prepare for clinicals and your hospital externship."
The record-setting nursing cohort comes as healthcare employers across Georgia and the nation continue to seek qualified registered nurses to meet growing patient needs driven by population growth and an aging population.
"Our students are choosing a profession that offers both purpose and opportunity," said Gordon. "The education they receive at GGC prepares them to enter the workforce with the knowledge, clinical experience and confidence needed to excel from day one."