Bellin College summer camps inspired career path in nursing for senior BSN student
By: Gillian Jepson,
BSN Class of 2018
Hi! My name is Gillian Jepson; I am a senior nursing student at Bellin College. I am beyond blessed with the education Bellin College has provided me the past four years. I grew up in a small Wisconsin town called Wild Rose. Throughout high school, my teachers encouraged me to find a career that fit me best, but I never knew what that career was. Several of my family members are teachers so I told myself I would fall back on teaching if I couldn’t find my dream career. During a career fair, I met an excellent staff member from Bellin College. After explaining to her that I had no clue what I wanted to do after high school, she convinced me to apply for the summer nursing camp, and I did just that! In July 2013, I attended Bellin College Summer Nursing Camp where I not only fell in love with Bellin College but also nursing. It was everything I dreamed it would be and more. At the beginning of camp I had no clue what the role of a nurse was, but by the end, my knowledge of nursing specialties and skills grew. Here I am today, a senior nursing student ready to take on the role of a nurse and strive to be the best I can be.
It is incredible to see how far I have come. Through lecture and clinical, my overall knowledge of nursing has increased tremendously. I have had several amazing clinical experiences in the local hospitals. Bellin College not only provided me with an outstanding education but also life-changing experiences. In January 2018, I had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala with 20 other students and faculty members on a medical mission trip. On this mission trip, I was able to tour The National Children’s Hospital in Guatemala and assist with setting up three clinics in the villages. The nurses and medical staff were all so appreciative of us being there to help with assessments and provide medical supplies. This experience was eye-opening and life-changing.
Bellin College also provided me with the opportunity of work-study. Working as a clerical assistant in the One-Stop-Shop and as a Student Concierge has been a great way to make money and have a schedule that works around my education. I have met so many amazing people that make leaving so hard.
Bellin College has done a fantastic job preparing me for my future and will always hold a special place in my heart. I look forward to seeing what my future in nursing holds!
