Hello First Semester Student!!

Welcome to the College of Nursing! First of all, I’d like to congratulate you on your
admission! This is a huge accomplishment. Your hard work and dedication have gotten you this
far and that will carry you through this program and beyond. I am so excited that for you as you
step into this new chapter of your life.

This journey will take you through new highs and new lows. You will accomplish feats,
conquer fears, and overcome challenges you never thought possible. You will learn so much, not
just about nursing skills and knowledge, but also about yourself.

Here’s some advice I wish someone had told me going into nursing school: first off,
remember that failures and mistakes are opportunities for learning. Don’t be too hard on
yourself. You are starting something new and unknown and maybe scary, but don’t let it get to
you. Know that you’re not alone even if it feels like everyone around you has it all together
(they don’t I promise you). Another key is to keep an open mind! You may think you know
what specialty you want to go into as of right now, but don’t let that hold you back from giving
your all to other opportunities. I’m one of those people that my preceptorship in a field
completely different than what I hoped for and ended up loving it and now I’m going into that
field! Also, make sure to stay on top of your work. I know they always tell you this in
prerequisites, but it matters ten times more in nursing school! Be confident in yourself, but don’t
be afraid to ask for help. Your peers and instructors, advisors, and other faculty are amazing
resources to lean on.

Sending best wishes and prayers as you embark on this new journey!

Sincerely, Nicole Blackburn

PS: If you have any questions about anything nursing / nursing school related, shoot me an
email! I’d be more than happy to chat with you :) nblackburn@email.arizona.edu