School of Nursing Welcomes New Class of Future Health Care Professionals

Severe nurse shortages continue to strain health care systems across the country, with the nationwide number of registered nurses dropping by 100,000 from 2020 to 2021, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Rutgers School of Nursing–Camden is welcoming the next generation of nurses to its academic programs; last week, a record-breaking 150 students from the school's largest incoming class since 2020 were on hand for Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration (SOAR) Day, taking the first steps toward nursing careers that will make a difference in the lives of others for decades to come.

“The energy on campus was electric,” said Donna Nickitas, dean of the School of Nursing–Camden. “The past few years have been tough for our field, so it is inspiring to see a group of compassionate, dedicated people who are ready to make a positive impact.”

Incoming students participated in the school’s orientation, connecting with faculty, staff, and current students. Parents and families also learned what to expect from their student’s first year of college and how to best support them through the transition. They toured the Nursing and Science Building’s 9,200 square feet of simulation and learning spaces.

The incoming students also met with different departments across campus; representatives from the Student Wellness Center and the Center for Learning and Student Success discussed study tips, stress management techniques, and mindfulness activities available across campus, while Student Affairs encouraged students to get involved in the campus community through student organizations, research opportunities, and so much more.

The nationally ranked Doctor of Nursing Practice program attracted Elissa Johnson from Sicklerville, N.J. As an aspiring nurse practitioner, she wanted an excellent nursing program with smaller class sizes.

“I chose Rutgers–Camden because it has a uniquely welcoming feel. It’s just so inviting,” Johnson said. “I have also spoken to alumni who all had great things to say about the program.”

Johnson was most impressed by the student panel presentation as well as the information she received from Career Services. “I don’t know how to build my resume—at least not yet," Johnson said. "It’s a relief to know I can go there and get help any time.”

For Kaia Popolo of Washington Township, N.J., the decision was an easy one. She said she looks forward to making meaningful connections, both with her peers and through the program’s vast clinical network.

“My two older sisters graduated from the School of Nursing–Camden and both have great jobs,” Popolo said. “With Rutgers–Camden, you’re right by Cooper and other great hospitals. I’m excited to get to know more people in my field.”