This summer, the UConn School of Nursing hosted its third annual Early Introduction to the Nursing Profession (EINP) program for high school students interested in a nursing career from June 23–26.

The program is planned and led by the school’s Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, MaryAnn Perez-Brescia, Ph.D., RN, and Aime Liggett, the pre-licensure clinical placement assistant.

Over the course of the academic year, Perez-Brescia and two undergraduate nursing students visited different high schools across Connecticut. They shared information about the University and how to prepare for and apply to the School of Nursing. Students were also informed about the EINP program and were invited to apply in May. To be considered for the program, applicants had to submit a personal essay, two letters of recommendation, and complete an online application.

“Investing in mentoring high school students is critical to preparing them for college and inspiring interest in the nursing profession,” said Perez-Brescia. “Early exposure and guidance help students understand career pathways, build confidence, and develop skills needed for success. This not only supports their personal growth but also helps address the nursing shortage by fostering a strong, diverse, and prepared future workforce.”

This year, 20 students from Avon, Berlin, Canton, West Hartford, Stamford, Old Lyme, South Windsor, Chester, Wethersfield, and E.O. Smith participated in the program. Majority of them were rising seniors with three rising sophomores and three rising juniors.

Activities included one day of simulation where they diapered and swaddled simulation babies and learned to take pulses on Harvey – a full-size cardiopulmonary simulator mannequin. Students also participated in a simulation relay and a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) race to test their newly acquired CPR and Stop the Bleed certifications.

School of Nursing advisors and several university departments, including financial aid and early college admissions, came to speak to them about how to navigate the university system to streamline the application process. They also learned about health literacy, health disparities, and health equity.

One student said by the end of the program, they were “able to understand both college life in the school of nursing as well as a career afterward.” Many students shared that they liked how hands-on it was, and they enjoyed getting to “experience what nursing students do in their everyday lives.”

This program is a wonderful opportunity for any high school student who is interested in becoming a nurse and wants to take a more in-depth look at the UConn nursing program and all the opportunities it provides.

To learn more about the EINP program please contact Perez-Brescia at maryann.brescia@uconn.edu.