The journey to becoming a nurse can be overwhelming, especially for first-year students. The transition into a rigorous nursing program often leads to feelings of isolation, with students struggling to form connections and unsure of where to turn for help. Aimee Flores, Graduate Assistant for First-Year Student Support at ΜμΜμ³ΤΉΟβs College of Nursing, is dedicated to supporting these students, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring they thrive both academically and emotionally. Flores is currently pursuing her masterβs degree in counseling which helps her understand the emotional and mental health challenges students face.
In her role, Flores works closely with nursing academic advisors to bridge the gap between students and available resources. She understands that nursing students often face isolation, especially in their early years, when many are taking difficult courses without the opportunity to connect with peers within the walls of Henderson Hall. By facilitating connections and offering support, Flores ensures that students are not left to navigate their challenges alone.
Flores is committed to fostering an environment of transparency, where students feel comfortable asking for help. She emphasizes the importance of emotional vulnerability, sharing her own experiences to help students feel understood. βI want students to leave knowing their time in the College of Nursing was a positive experience,β she says. Her efforts go beyond academic support; she also works to ensure students feel emotionally supported as they navigate the challenges of nursing school.
Representation is also central to her mission. As a Latina, Flores understands the power of seeing someone from a similar background in an academic setting. She believes that representation helps students feel they are part of the community and can succeed. βItβs vital for nursing students to see someone like me in this space, to know they donβt have to explain their lived experiences,β she says.
Flores is working on initiatives to increase community and collaboration among first-year nursing students. One such initiative is an accountability partner program, where students can connect with peers facing similar challenges. She is also advocating for a mentorship program for first-year students, which would help build relationships and support networks early on. βEven if they canβt be paired with upperclassmen, having someone in a mentorship role can help create a sense of connection,β she explains. Updates on the mentorship program will be shared with students as the plan develops.
Looking ahead, Flores plans to partner with student organizations to organize informal events that encourage connections and build a sense of community. Her advice to new nursing students is simple: donβt hesitate to ask for help. Whether seeking academic guidance or emotional support, she emphasizes the value of reaching out. βItβs better to ask for help than to struggle alone,β she says.
Through her efforts, Flores is helping to cultivate a community where nursing students feel both empowered and supported, ensuring their success not just in the classroom, but in their overall well-being. Her office is located in the newly renovated first-floor academic advising suite, where she continues to make herself available to students who need guidance or support. Nursing students seeking help or more information about these initiatives can visit Flores directly or contact her for further assistance.