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Emma Carey, woman in nurse scrubs

Meet Emma Carey, a Nursing major and Social Service minor from Battle Creek, MI. Emma plans to graduate in 2023.

I decided to come to NMU because I was looking for a school where the professors cared about the successes of their students, and didn’t see their students with a “weeding out” perspective. NMU is the best choice I’ve made as a transfer student. The faculty and staff have been so supportive, and have helped me navigate the challenges as a transfers student. Plus, the outdoor activities are endless.

It took me a little longer to decide what I truly wanted to be when I “grow up”, and to be honest I think I’ll be a life long learner. I knew that I wanted to be in a career that served others, and that’s when I fell in love with nursing. I love the diversity in medicine. But, I was also wanting to provide my patients with helpful tools and resources. This is when I decided to minor in social services, and I loved every minute of getting to know the field of social work.

I would say one of the coolest things I got to do was complete some of my clinical hours at Bay Cliff Health Camp this past summer. This opportunity had confirmed that the field of pediatrics was for me. I love how resilient and courageous these kids were. I highly suggest looking into volunteering or working at this camp.

I’m involved in a club called Nurses Christian Fellowship, Student Nurses Association (SNA), Undergraduate Curriculum Committee, Nursing Resiliency team, and I work as a supervisor for the Nursing Technology Center (NTC) on campus. During my off campus time, I spend the majority of the time studying and spending quality time with my friends. The most rewarding experience would be working at the NTC because I get to be apart of a community that uplifts, encourages, and advocates for one another.

I believe that “be Northern” means to be proud of who you are, stand in boldness, and don’t forget to advocate for yourself and others.

I highly suggest signing up for a campus visit, and to research your major/ minor. Also, look up off campus activities such as hiking, coffee shops, swimming, pottery, and more!

If you’re looking into nursing, I highly suggest reaching out to the nursing professors and see if you can sign up for Pathophysiology or Pharmacology as a pre-nursing student. They sometimes offer these courses. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to your professors for help or guidance. I also wanted to mention that college can be very challenging, and remember to be that person who supports your classmates.

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Woman with dog in front of statue

Emma and her dog in front of the Wildcat Statue.

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A nursing cohort poses for a photo with NMU's mascot Wildcat Willy

A nursing cohort poses for a photo with Wildcat Willy