“Losing my father to colon cancer and witnessing his fight against the disease while I was in middle school inspired me to pursue a career in nursing,” she shares. Now, as a BSN Scholar, Ballenger’s passion for nursing has only deepened.
Ballenger was accepted into the BSN Scholars program in the spring of 2023.
This partnership with The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) allows students to train at a satellite campus adjacent to UTMC. The program offers nursing students an opportunity to learn in a state-of-the-art Simulation Lab and train inside UTMC while receiving their BSN from UT. The program offers tuition assistance from UTMC with a three-year work commitment post grad.
“The program has been nothing short of amazing, giving me invaluable experience and knowledge that has solidified my passion for this field.”
Ballenger’s time in the program has been marked by moments of growth and reflection. She points to the supportive nature of the BSN Scholars cohort and the professors who’ve guided her along the way.
“Having a small and supportive cohort with incredible teachers has had a significant impact on me,” said Ballenger. “From taking challenging courses and managing a heavy workload during the summer to engaging in mindfulness and meditation practices before exams, the professors went beyond the classroom to help us grow.”
Ballenger’s clinical rotations at The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) have had an influence on her perspective on patient care.
“The nurses at UTMC provide excellent care in every situation, and no matter what floor you’re on, the medical center feels like a family,” she adds. “This experience has influenced my belief in the importance of compassionate and high-quality patient care.”
The BSN Scholars Program was designed to address the critical nursing shortage while creating a pipeline for the medical center to employ top nursing graduates.
The BSN Scholars program has also provided Jordan with opportunities to learn and grow in a hands-on environment.
“The program has helped me develop both personally and professionally by providing opportunities to learn from mistakes in simulation labs and correct them,” she shared. “It has taught me the value of professionalism in clinical settings, especially the importance of being a good listener and an effective leader.”
Throughout her journey, Jordan has found invaluable support from mentors like Vivian Rookard, chair of the program.
“She has always been just an email or call away, advocating for us and helping us navigate challenges,” shared Ballenger. “She has assisted me with coursework, volunteer opportunities, and clinical rotations, providing guidance and encouragement throughout my journey.”
Looking ahead, she is eager to continue making a difference in the lives of patients. When she graduates, she plans to begin working on the 5Heart oncology floor at UTMC.
“I hope to advocate for my patients by being their voice when they are no longer able to speak for themselves, as well as when they can,” she added. “I want to ensure they receive the care and attention they deserve at every stage of their treatment.”
For students considering the BSN Scholars program, Ballenger offers this advice: “Be open to change and willing to embrace discomfort. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone, and this will ultimately lead you to find what works best for you.”
To learn more about the BSN Scholars program submit an interest form or sign up for an interest session.
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CONTACT:
Kara Clark (865-974-9498, kmclark2@utk.edu)