Do I have enough volunteer experience for nursing school?

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

Published  

I am starting my applications for nursing school, but I'm worried that I don't have enough volunteering in my belt to stand out. One program I'm interested in has an optional section to input volunteering experience for underserved communities and healthcare, but I only have volunteering experience as a crisis counselor. I am considering reframing this to say that I've practiced vital healthcare skills related to active listening, compassionate care, being able to think on my feet, mental health, and embracing difficult topics. Overall, I am just not sure how much nursing programs would care about whether I had the specific volunteering they're looking for.

Share this post

+ Add A Comment
Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

You definitely have skills in presenting yourself well and understanding how to emphasize what the receiver might be looking for! I'm impressed.

Volunteer work is important regardless of the hours or type. Volunteering reflects your character.

Each nursing school has its own screening criteria and values various factors to different degrees, such as GPA, prerequisite courses, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and standardized tests like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.).

That said, all programs seek well-rounded applicants who are passionate about nursing. Programs generally look at your overall character, experience, and commitment to helping others. If you're passionate about nursing, it will shine through in your application.

Your crisis counseling experience sets you apart, showing you're already equipped to care for people in high-stress, emotionally challenging situations.

In summary, don't stress too much about having the "perfect" volunteer experience.

I wish you the very best,

Nurse Beth

 

+ Add a Comment