Beyond Science

Bridget Verkamp, a senior at UC's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, shares how opportunities for extra-curricular involvement fostering leadership, communication and management skills have helped her overcome obstacles and become a well-rounded nurse.

"If I had been asked to write about the importance of personal and professional skills as a nurse when I first arrived on campus almost four years ago, I can tell you I would have been much more stumped about what to say than I am now. In fact, I laugh to myself thinking about just how little I was concerned about what I call the 'art' of nursing compared to the 'science.'

Don't get me wrong-the 'science' is what comprises nursing practice: knowledge of the human body and disease processes, pharmacology, evidence-based practice and the nursing thinking process are crucial skills and lessons that nurses must master to perform their jobs effectively. However, to truly thrive in their roles, to make the impact on patients and families that nurses are known for and to advance the profession, that is where the 'art' becomes necessary. This is why personal and professional development in nursing school is so important.

In my freshman year, I was focused solely on graduating and finding a job. I had never been the smartest kid in class-rather, I was the one with ADHD who looked on nervously as everyone else finished their exams while I wasn't even halfway through-so I felt very apprehensive about being in a reputable program like UC's. I won't bore you with the details, but that year was challenging to say the least. I struggled in classes and constantly doubted whether I was in the right field or if I was 'smart enough' to be a nurse. However, that same year, I joined several organizations on campus, found mentors who believed in me in each of them and took on leadership roles. There was a stark difference in how I felt about my abilities in nursing school versus my organizations, and it wasn't until I started thinking about how to bridge that gap that I found my strength in both.

What my involvement and leadership roles on campus were teaching me was the 'art' of nursing. As the recruitment chair of my sorority, Chi Omega, I learned to delegate tasks and communicate effectively and efficiently. As a student mentor for Refuge-UC, I learned cultural awareness and how to meet others where they are to build trust. As the Hospital Relations Chair of BearcatThon, I learned to advocate for others and help my fellow team members when they needed it. And as President of the Student Alumni Council, I'm learning to be vision- and mission-focused to advance the organization and its members. Each of these lessons is applicable to nursing practice, and I now recognize them as the strengths I bring to my field. Learning these lessons and having these experiences have been crucial to my development, not only as a professional but also as a person. There's no more fitting way for a future nurse to grow than through hands-on experiences.

As I approach graduation next spring, my biggest piece of advice to nursing students is to prioritize both the art and science of nursing practice. UC's curriculum will prepare you well to fulfill the obligations of your role, but your involvement on campus and in the community is what will help you thrive. Now more than ever, it is vital for nurses to be equipped to lead in health care and to have the skills to advocate for themselves and their patients to advance the profession.

You will inevitably work with, care for and be led by people who are completely different from you. So, seek out experiences that are new and engage with others whom you might not think you have much in common with. Embrace roles that seem out of reach and surprise yourself with how well you can succeed. Give back to your community and make a meaningful impact."

Learn more about UC's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Bridget Verkamp is a senior at the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, originally from Bentonville, Arkansas. In addition to aforementioned roles, she is also an active member of the University Honors Program. Currently, Bridget is enhancing her skills through a co-op position at Cincinnati Children's Hospital in the Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute.

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