Education/Research: West Penn School of Nursing:

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Professional Socialization

Orientation

Orientation is essential for the student's professional and personal growth and adjustment. Small group sessions are scheduled prior to the beginning of formal classes to facilitate the student's adjustment to college and nursing responsibilities.

The School's orientation program informs individuals about their rights and responsibilities within the School.

A mentor program introduces new students to the social network of the School through student-to-student interaction.

Student Government

The School of Nursing's student government coordinates the interests and activities of the first- and second-year classes and provides a means for developing leadership skills, self directedness and cooperative action.

Faculty Organization Committee Representatives

Students are encouraged to serve as active members with voting privileges on the Admissions and Progression, Curriculum, and Program Evaluation committees of the Faculty Organization.

Professional Development

Students are encouraged to attend Hospital-sponsored inservice education sessions as scheduling and space permit.

Student Nursing Organizations

Professional nursing students are eligible for membership in the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA) and the Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP). Applications are available from the School's admissions office.

Community Service

Inherent in the professional nursing role is a commitment to community service. In keeping with this belief, completion of four community volunteer hours is required each year.

Student Activities

The student government's Student Council, with a faculty advisor, plans school-sponsored activities. The School is located minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, which is the cultural hub of the tri-state area. There are numerous opportunities for sports, entertainment and leisure activities.