UMANS hosted events this semester on student support, career growth, and service, including workshops, panels, interview prep, and a successful blood drive.
Over the semester, the University of Maryland Association of Nursing Students (UMANS) hosted various events, with the vision of embodying a community for student nurses at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG). This student organization is a chapter of the National Student Nurse Association (NSNA). The chapter's mission is to engage nursing students in professional development while making a positive impact on the community.
A brief look at UMANS' spring events:
Imposter Syndrome Workshop (Feb. 2)
The first outreach meeting of the semester was an Imposter Syndrome Workshop, which provided nursing students with a supportive space to address feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, and imposter syndrome that are commonly experienced throughout nursing school. By fostering a sense of belonging, confidence, and resilience, the workshop helped students feel more supported within their academic environment. With 29 participants in attendance, the event demonstrated strong engagement and reflected the core values of well-being and professional development upheld by UMANS and NSNA, as it supports personal growth, resilience, and preparation for the demands of the nursing profession.
Nursing Student Panel with the Pre-Nursing Society (March 2)
UMANS hosted a virtual panel for students from the University of Maryland, College Park Pre-Nursing Society. Three UMANS board members served as panelists, sharing essential information about nursing school, their career motivations, and practical strategies for managing coursework and daily life. The event gave prospective students a realistic understanding of the program while offering invaluable guidance, motivation, and tips for future success. This initiative directly supports the mission of the NSNA to foster the professional development of students interested in pursuing nursing. By connecting and mentoring those preparing for initial licensure, the event promoted the development of skills necessary for responsible and accountable members of the nursing profession.
“Hire Me RN” (March 30)
Another UMANS outreach event during the semester, Hire Me RN, helped support nursing students in preparing for certified nursing assistant, externship, and new graduate interviews. The session aimed to build confidence by helping students better understand common interview questions and how to effectively structure their responses. The guest speaker, Erin Steiner from USG, created an interactive environment where students could practice responding to interview questions and receive feedback from peers. By strengthening communication skills and self-presentation, this event supported the development of students’ professional identity and helped prepare them to confidently enter the nursing workforce.
American Red Cross Blood Drive (March 31)
Every semester, UMANS hosts an American Red Cross Blood drive at USG. Part of the UMANS mission is to support population health initiatives, and there is a current national blood shortage. This drive was an overwhelming success. There was a total of 50 donors, including 11 first-time donors. The drive exceeded the goal of 40 pints by collecting a total of 43 pints! The UMANS board members who volunteered at the event were enthusiastic, professional, and had an exciting opportunity to be part of a public health initiative.
These are just a few of the many events UMANS hosts each semester. If you’re a BSN student at USG, consider joining UMANS.