School of Nursing at Mississippi College Spotlights Students at White Coat Ceremony

MC School of Nursing Class of 2017 is showcased at White Coat Ceremony on September 28.

Nursing students are embracing a caring profession that will remain in high demand for years to come.

As Baby Boomers retire and healthcare needs escalate, America can expect to hire one million new nurses by the year 2022.

Thirty-nine Mississippi College nursing students were honored Monday evening as some of the nation’s future medical professionals. Members of the Class of 2017 were showcased at the MC School of Nursing White Coat Ceremony.

“I never wanted to do anything else,” said MC nursing student Alex Selby, 20, of Memphis as parents and faculty joined the program at Anderson Hall. “I really enjoy just caring for people.”

Wearing their white coats for the first time, the MC student nurses pledged to provide the highest quality care to patients, become lifelong learners and act in a Christian manner. Taking an oath, they promised to protect the health, safety and rights of all individuals.

New School of Nursing Dean Kimberly Sharp joined the salute to the students on the Clinton campus. They shouldn’t have any problems finding jobs once graduation day rolls around, she said. “There’s a huge demand for nurses.”

Salaries continue to climb. The USA average for nurses is $64,000 annually.

In the months ahead, the MC student nurses will embark upon clinical duties around the region. The MC School of Nursing is fortunate to be located near so many outstanding medical facilities in metro Jackson, Sharp said.

Guest speaker Dr. Tina Magers of Baptist Health Systems in Jackson offered valuable tips to the students to help them succeed. Staying healthy, getting proper sleep and exercising are some of the things she recommends as students pursue their studies.

Students also must realize they’re not perfect, Magers said. “We all make mistakes and learn from our mistakes.”

Conner Blackwell, 20, of Flowood first got interested in the nursing profession as a Northwest High School volunteer at a local hospital. The MC nursing student later went on medical mission trips and got hooked.

The MC School of Nursing faculty will do their part to ensure that students are well prepared and disciplined to work hard as they enter the profession. Classes at Cockroft Hall are always demanding. Said Blackwell: “Nursing school is very tough.”