Name: Mackenzie Cole
Hometown: Aberdeen
Site: Brookings
What motivated you to choose a career in nursing? I had a high school teacher who instilled a passion within me to care for people. I want to continue to give back to members within the community.
Why did you choose SDSU to pursue your nursing degree? I wanted to stay in state and South Dakota State University is known for their outstanding nursing program, which is what ultimately led me here.
What clinical experience have you enjoyed the most? I’ve really enjoyed my med‐surg clinical experiences, but to be honest I’ve learned so much from every experience I’ve had, and it is hard to pick a favorite. I am most looking forward to my OB clinical rotation I have coming up this semester.
What organizations are you involved in? I have served as a peer‐mentor for students new to the pre‐nursing major, as well as served on a nursing board panel for new students.
Is there a particular field of nursing you are planning to pursue? I have interests in both OB and ER, but am still undecided at this point.
What is your big dream? My biggest goal as a nurse is to give back to others. I would like to eventually go back and possibly become a clinical instructor. Being able to mentor future nurses as my instructors have for me would be such an amazing opportunity.
What advice would you share with a future nursing student? Nursing school is hard, but one thing I have learned is that we know so much more than we think we do, don’t underestimate yourself! Another big piece of advice I have is to find a good group of friends to study with, they are going to hold you accountable and keep you levelheaded through nursing school.