Membership
Crystal Nettles Director and Chair , Membership Committee directorn @ nsnainc . org
Pathways to Inclusion NSNA can be an important part of your experience as a student nurse . There are many reasons why we all decided to become nurses , and the same is true about being a part of NSNA . Some people join for leadership experience , others for professional development , while some join to expand their network and meet students from across the nation . No matter your reason for joining , we are all here because we have decided to join the caring , rewarding , and challenging profession of nursing . There is so much to learn on this journey and plenty to reflect on along the way . NSNA has given me countless opportunities to continue to learn , grow as a leader , and meet other students and nurses along the way . I am sure all of you have learned something , met someone , or experienced something new during your time with NSNA , and if you haven ’ t yet , I promise that you will !
Take chances and challenge yourself Getting out of your comfort zone and putting yourself out there can open doors that one could only imagine . It can be easy to find a routine and fall into a regular pace . Don ’ t get me wrong , finding a routine and doing what works for you is very important in life as well as nursing school . Sitting in our comfort zone instead of pushing ourselves is self limiting and can lead to missed opportunities . I ’ m sure we ’ ve all heard the saying , ” you ’ ll never know what you don ’ t ask .” Oftentimes when we are stuck and are not sure what to do , we become frustrated , and overwhelmed ( or maybe that ’ s just me ). I would encourage anyone who is having these moments to
stop and reflect . Ground yourself and be present with those feelings / emotions . Push forward , continue to work hard , seek clarity , and give yourself some grace . Never be ashamed or afraid to ask questions ! There is no shame in not knowing an answer . It may not be easy , but the challenge will be worth it . Everyday is an opportunity for change and growth . Today I challenge you to look for one thing that you can do better to help yourself grow or to help those around you .
Surround yourself with people who reflect who you want to be NSNA is a fantastic opportunity to network and foster relationships with nursing students and nurse leaders from across the country . We pride ourselves on being a community where anyone can be a mentor or mentee . Finding someone who you can look up to and ask questions helps build confidence in yourself . Again , don ’ t be afraid to ask questions ! They have been in your position , and you are not alone . If you are an older student — look to your professors or other role models . They can guide you and help you on your journey through school . Having or being a good mentor now can benefit you later in your career . If you are unsure , this person should provide you with support , encouragement , and direction .
Making connections early on can help you during nursing school and as a novice nurse . Your nursing school experience and career is what you make it to be . What you bring to the table is valuable . Your viewpoint is important . Speak up for yourself . We are taught to be an advocate for our patients , but we must also advocate for fellow nursing students and , most importantly , ourselves !
6 NSNA IMPRINT • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2022 • www . nsna . org