At Harris College, we are committed to preparing the next generation of health care professionals through rigorous academic programs and hands-on clinical experiences. Within the nursing program, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in diverse health care settings, emphasizing holistic, patient-centered care.
As part of this commitment to excellence, nursing students like seniors Jenna Koeneman and Hannah Le recently completed externships at the prestigious Mayo Clinic, widely recognized for its outstanding patient care and innovative medical practices. These experiences not only enhance their clinical skills but also provide invaluable insights into the realities of nursing in high-acuity environments.
In their own words, Koeneman and Le reflect on their motivations for applying to Mayo Clinic, the skills they developed, and how their education at TCU has shaped their nursing philosophies. Here’s what they had to say:
Why did you choose TCU and the Harris College nursing program?
Koeneman: I chose TCU and the Harris College nursing program because of its strong reputation for academic excellence and its focus on holistic, patient-centered care. The supportive faculty, diverse clinical opportunities and available resources aligned perfectly with my passion for becoming a skilled and compassionate nurse. The emphasis on both clinical knowledge and emotional intelligence is something I highly value.
Le: I chose TCU and the Harris College nursing program because it aligns perfectly with my personal and professional goals. I wanted to stay in Texas for my education, and TCU stood out for its strong nursing reputation. The program’s high ranking reassured me that I would receive a top-tier education. Additionally, TCU’s four-year nursing program allows for a comprehensive educational experience, blending foundational knowledge with practical skills. The balance of academic rigor and a vibrant college life has helped me grow personally and academically while creating lasting memories.
What motivated you to apply for the externship at Mayo Clinic, and how would you describe your experience?
Koeneman: I discovered the externship opportunity at Mayo Clinic through my online research. The prestigious reputation of Mayo Clinic in patient care motivated me to apply; I often hear people refer to it as one of the best hospitals in the world. My experience was incredibly rewarding, as I gained hands-on experience in the Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) and medical oncology units, participating in administering stem cell transplants, managing chemotherapy-related side effects and monitoring for complications.
Le: I learned about the externship through my research on nurse externship programs nationwide, and Mayo Clinic was at the top of my list! My primary motivation stemmed from my nursing aspirations and a desire for personal growth. Participating in a nurse externship was crucial for developing my clinical skills and confidence. Mayo Clinic’s reputation as the best hospital in the U.S. was a major draw, and I also welcomed the chance to explore a new state after living in Texas my entire life. Living in Minnesota for the summer was a fantastic experience!
In which clinical areas did you work, and how did your TCU education prepare you for this?
Koeneman: I primarily worked in the Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) and medical oncology units, which closely aligned with my education at TCU. Throughout my studies, I’ve been trained to view patient care from a holistic perspective, focusing on physical health while also considering emotional and psychological well-being. Professor Libby Rosonet’s Aspects of Oncology course provided a solid foundation in oncology care, allowing me to apply my knowledge to the multifaceted needs of patients, especially those facing challenges involving a cancer diagnosis.
Le: During my externship at Mayo Clinic, I worked in the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) unit and the Neuroscience (neuro) Intensive Care Unit (ICU). In the ENT unit, I cared for patients with tracheostomies, an experience that echoed my foundations clinical at TCU. The skills and knowledge I gained at TCU enhanced my confidence in providing care. In the neuro ICU, I was challenged to think critically and adapt quickly, deepening my understanding of complex neurological conditions. I also shadowed a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) and spent a day in the pediatric ICU.
What new skills did you gain during your externship that will contribute to your future nursing success?
Koeneman: I gained significant skills in administering complex treatments like stem cell transplants and blood transfusions. I also developed a deeper understanding of holistic patient care, considering both physical and emotional health, which will greatly contribute to my success as a nurse. My confidence in clinical judgment and decision-making has increased significantly, which will be beneficial in my future practice.
Le: I significantly enhanced my critical thinking skills and gained hands-on experience with various clinical procedures. I became proficient in managing external ventricular drains, monitoring intracranial pressure and performing neurological assessments. I also learned how to manage tracheostomies and became familiar with charting patient care using EPIC (Electronic Patient Information Center), which will help me provide safe and effective patient care.
What unique experiences did your externship provide, and how have these experiences influenced your career plans?
Koeneman: My externship provided many unique experiences, particularly the chance to work with patients from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. This was eye-opening and emphasized the importance of understanding each patient’s unique needs, reinforcing my commitment to personalized care. Witnessing the strength and resilience of patients undergoing intensive treatments solidified my passion for oncology nursing, especially in the BMT field, deepening my desire to specialize in oncology nursing after graduation.
Le: My externship offered a unique experience due to the strong sense of community among the staff at Mayo Clinic. The collaboration and support among nurses fostered a positive environment, highlighting the critical role of teamwork in patient care. Living with other interns created camaraderie, enhancing my professional growth and shaping my desire to pursue a career in critical care nursing. I appreciated being a patient advocate in a fast-paced setting, motivating me to work in an ICU after graduating from TCU, where I believe I can make a significant impact.
How did the Harris College nursing program prepare you for your externship?
Koeneman: The Harris College nursing program equipped me with clinical knowledge and a holistic approach to patient care, essential for meeting the demands of the externship. The rigorous coursework and clinical rotations allowed me to balance technical skills with patient-centered care, crucial for working with patients in the BMT and oncology units. Faculty support also played a key role in my preparation.
Le: The Harris College nursing program provided me with a solid foundation that prepared me for my externship. The emphasis on hands-on clinical experience and the support from my instructors helped me build the essential skills and confidence needed for success in a high-acuity setting. The focus on evidence-based practice has been particularly beneficial.
What advice do you have for fellow TCU students considering externships?
Koeneman: I highly encourage my fellow students to take advantage of externship opportunities. These experiences offer invaluable hands-on learning and foster significant professional growth. My advice is to remain open and eager to learn, as externships often present situations that may be unfamiliar—especially in specialized areas like oncology. Embracing the challenge of not knowing everything can enhance your clinical skills and deepen your understanding of patient care.
Le: I encourage fellow TCU students to apply for nurse externships! The knowledge and skills gained during these experiences are invaluable. It’s a fantastic opportunity to put classroom learning into practice and build confidence. If you're considering it, go for it—you won’t regret it!
Jenna Koeneman and Hannah Le’s externships at Mayo Clinic have enhanced their clinical skills and strengthened their commitment to patient-centered care. Their experiences highlight the solid foundation provided by Harris College, which prepares students to thrive in diverse health care settings.
Congratulations to Jenna Koeneman and Hannah Le on their successful externships! As they advance in their nursing careers, we look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will have in the field.