Photo: SNA board members showing off merchandise
The Presidency of BYU’s chapter of the student nurses’ association (SNA) has been working hard to provide students with opportunities to serve, connect, and have fun while following the College of Nursing’s COVID-19 policies.
Newly-elected activities director Allison Lee says, “We have to plan far in advance, so we really have to think ahead and plan every single detail, but we’re thinking outside the box!” Allison and her counterpart, Dallin Williams, are enthusiastic about future SNA events, despite the restrictions placed due to COVID.
Although most SNA meetings and activities can’t be done in person anymore, the SNA board is utilizing Zoom, email, and other technologies to keep students informed. They are all passionate about SNA and want to continue allowing students opportunities through this organization.
So, why join SNA during a global pandemic?
No matter the circumstances, SNA presents opportunities to network with professors and students in other semesters. President Amelia Thompson says, “Each professor has a different specialty, and SNA is a great way to find professors who can line you up with jobs or make recommendations for your future after graduation.” SNA is also a great way to become familiar with all aspects of the College of Nursing by helping students from other semesters form connections and take a break from the everyday stressors of student life.
SNA also provides opportunities to network with students and healthcare professionals on both state and national levels. When students become members of SNA, they automatically become members of the Utah Student Nurses Association (UTSNA). The UTSNA allows students to become familiar with other professional nursing associations and earn scholarships.
UtSNA President and fifth semester nursing student Jessica Daynes says, “SNA has totally changed my college of nursing experience. The networking I have been able to do on a state and national level has been a huge benefit. I have also had a lot of scholarship opportunities through SNA, that’s how I learned about other professional nursing associations and I’ve paid for my tuition with one of the scholarships I have gotten through one of those associations.”
Lastly, service opportunities are one of the most beneficial aspects of SNA. There are two board members in charge of creating monthly service opportunities so students can get out in the community and use their skills to help others. Allison Lee says, “The College of Nursing slogan is ‘Learning the Healer’s art.’ Nursing is a great way to learn and use Christlike attributes, but serving others is also a great way to be a better disciple.”
Whether you’re in your first semester in the program or your last, your experience in SNA will help you now, and in your future career. It will give you opportunities that will help you stand out in job interviews, help you become a better leader, and help you “Learn the Healer’s art.”
BYU College of Nursing 