Welcome to the College of Nursing!

My name is Alyssa Benefield, and I am a fourth-semester nursing student. I graduate in

May and am so thankful for the opportunities the College of Nursing has given me. Let me start
by saying that nursing school will be one of the most challenging things you will ever do;
however, you will grow as a person and learn so much about yourself during this time. Not only
does it challenge you academically, but it will also challenge you emotionally. You will learn
how strong you are and will be amazed by all that you can accomplish. This college has fantastic
professors and resources that can help you succeed and be the nurse you want to be. All my
professors were great at listening and provided direction when needed. Also, take a look around
this room. All 54 of you will go through this experience together and build friendships that will
last a lifetime. Never be afraid to build connections and work closely with your classmates;
collaboration and teamwork are extremely valuable in the medical profession. Overall this
experience will be amazing, and I am so excited for you! Go Wildcats!

Other tips for nursing school:

- Use a planner or a calendar to write down assignments from the course calendar.
Color code each class
- If you have a question, do not be afraid to ask (if you are shy, email the professor)
- If you feel stressed, Deb Nesbitt is a great resource the College of Nursing has.
- There are success books you can find on Amazon that can help study for tests once
you reach second semester (these are not required textbooks, they just helped me)
- Take frequent pictures of your journey through the College of Nursing (It goes fast,
and I wish I took more pictures for the memories)
- Do not forget to breath and do self-care (hot showers and lighting candles always
helped me)

Best of luck on your new journey,

Alyssa Benefield