Seniors Showcase Work in Portfolios

Graduating nursing students have one more tool to use in their search for that first nursing job. Each student creates a portfolio to represent the abilities and accomplishments resulting from his York College baccalaureate nursing education.

The portfolio serves as a link between curriculum content and professional nursing experience. It includes a resume, a cover letter,
examples of the student’s writing progression from the first clinical course through the last clinical course, poster presentations, powerpoint presentations, research projects, and certifications. Graduating senior Dana DiPaola said, “It’s a way to monitor hard work and achievements. I’m proud of my portfolio.”

What employers are most impressed by in the portfolio is the evidenced based practice (EBP) project. Because EBP is trending in the workplace now, many employers specifically look for this during the job interview and ask the student to explain his project.

The development of the portfolio was spearheaded by Dr. Lisa Ruth-Sahd and endorsed by the curriculum committee.  Dr. Julie Beck, who teaches NUR 411 Leadership in Professional Nursing, now guides students through this process.

The leadership course helps students gain the skills that will make them more marketable in the workplace.  It covers resume writing,
interview skills, preparation for the state
licensing exam, leadership and management, ethical and legal aspects of nursing, team building, EBP, quality of nursing care, shared governance, and future developments in nursing practice and education.  Students are also required to complete the application to take the state licensing exam.

The portfolio can be taken to a job interview to show professional role development  and critical thinking.  Senior Bianca Mancas said, “It will help us present ourselves in a more professional way.”

 Photo: Seniors Dana DiPaola (left) and Biance Mancas look over their portfolios.