What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

I'm from Tignish, Prince Edward Island and chose to study at UPEI because of the highly reputable, clinically intensive nursing program that prioritizes hands-on learning from the very beginning. The university’s strong reputation for producing skilled, job-ready graduates was a major factor, as it offers the perfect balance of rigorous classroom theory and direct, practical experience within PEI’s health care system.

What do you find unique and interesting about UPEI's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program?

The UPEI nursing program offers a hands-on learning environment unique to other programs, and many unique clinical experiences to expand skills, knowledge, and confidence. The nursing student community has been extremely welcoming, and the social events have been a great opportunity to meet other like-minded students in the program. The small class sizes at UPEI allow for familiarity between students and professors, creating a supportive environment of continued learning. Learning under professors and instructors who know my name and learning needs has allowed me to gain confidence in my skills and develop as a professional.

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and UPEI faculty members?

The relationships built between students and faculty members create a space where questions can be asked openly in a non-judgemental environment. Professors are supportive and passionate about student experiences, and create classroom environments that support a diverse range of learning styles and preferences. The Mawi’omi Indigenous Student Centre has supported me in providing student resources, a comfortable place to study and socialize, and opportunities to participate in cultural activities and teachings, which have been crucial to my success at UPEI.

"Because of the 'everyone knows everyone' island mentality, UPEI offers a particularly close-knit nursing experience. You receive direct, practical guidance while studying alongside your peers in clinical rotations and the classroom because of the program's small class sizes and high instructor-to-student ratio."

What opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?

Clinical placements in the nursing program on PEI have been a great opportunity for me to gain confidence and knowledge across a variety of specialties and settings, and to become familiar with nursing job opportunities available on Prince Edward Island. At UPEI, I have had the opportunity to practice nursing skills in a specialty that inspires me and focus on this area of interest during my preceptorship.

What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

Because of the "everyone knows everyone" island mentality, UPEI offers a particularly close-knit nursing experience. You receive direct, practical guidance while studying alongside your peers in clinical rotations and the classroom because of the program's small class sizes and high instructor-to-student ratio. Because of the province's small size, you have instant access to a variety of career options and local mentors, which makes networking feel very personalized and natural.

What would you tell a high-school student considering UPEI and the Nursing program?

One of the best methods to develop a career while creating a close-knit peer group that quickly becomes your closest friends is through the nursing program. Because the training is so hands-on, you don't just sit in a lecture hall, you work with a small group of individuals in the hospital and lab to learn how to deal with real-world situations. Because of this common experience, you build an amazing professional network that follows you throughout your career and opens doors to new expertise and opportunities wherever you go. Nursing is a great option if you want a degree that emphasizes collaboration and provides you with a support system right away.

How do you feel UPEI has prepared you for your future?

My extensive clinical experiences and the professional relationships I've formed at UPEI have given me a great deal of confidence in my ability to think critically and use practical technical skills. These opportunities have encouraged me to apply classroom theory to difficult, real-world patient situations, which has led to significant personal and professional growth. Also, the extensive NCLEX preparation incorporated into this semester's curriculum has provided me with the knowledge to prepare me for the transition from student to licensed practitioner, helping me to enter the nursing field with confidence and competence once I graduate.