This Nursing School Is Training Future Nurses—In Elementary School!

Image Source: Fox13 News Utah

Elementary school students in Draper, Utah, recently got a unique, hands-on introduction to the world of nursing, thanks to an immersive event hosted by Galen College of Nursing. The initiative aimed to spark early interest in healthcare careers and give children a tangible sense of what it means to be a nurse.

Interactive Learning Stations Bring Nursing to Life

During their visit, students rotated through several interactive stations set up by Galen College nursing students and faculty. These stations covered essential aspects of nursing, including infant care, treating broken bones, and what to expect during a doctor’s visit. The hosts designed these activities to be both educational and engaging, allowing children to experience firsthand some of the fundamental skills nurses use every day.

Amanda Robin, a nursing student at Galen College, described the impact of the event to Fox13 News Utah, "It’s fun to see their eyes light up and feel empowered. I think they feel like it's giving them hope for their future."

Image Source: Fox13 News Utah

Fostering Healthcare Career Aspirations Among Youth

Events like this are increasingly important as the United States faces a growing need for nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for nurses is expected to rise by 6% by 2033, outpacing the growth of many other professions.

Melinda Patterson, chief nursing officer at Lone Peak Hospital, underscored the significance of such outreach: "We get to inspire future health care people. We always need nurses and allied health personnel."

Mollie Nordgren, regional dean at Galen College, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the lasting impact these experiences can have: "If we get one student who remembers this and goes on to be a nurse, we have done a great service to the community."

Image Source: Fox13 News Utah

Inspiring Future Nurses Today

For the young participants, the day was both fun and eye-opening. Kyle, a first grader, summed up his experience: "They help people and I have had so much fun… I want to be a nurse when I grow up."

While these children are years away from making career decisions, experiences like this plant the seeds for future aspirations—and perhaps, future nurses who will one day care for their own communities.

🤔 As a nurse today, would you have enjoyed a school program like this when you were a child? Tell us your thoughts in the discussion forum below.