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.

Woman with dog in front of statue

Emma and her dog in front of the Wildcat Statue.

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

A nursing cohort poses for a photo with Wildcat Willy