Student Profile: Jessica Carreon
Last Updated on March 02, 2020 at 12:00 AM
Originally published March 02, 2020
By UC Staff
UTEP Communications
Jessica Carreon didn't shy away from the challenge that was presented to her by The University of Texas at El Paso's School of Nursing. In two years, Carreon has learned from accomplished professors, student organizations and her own persistence.
Name: Jessica Carreon
Classification: Senior, class of spring 2020
Major: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
What high school did you graduate from? When? Bowie High School, Class of 2011
What drew you to UTEP? I have wanted to be a nurse for quite some time. It has been a bumpy road with my journey as a nursing student. I was previously in a different nursing program and, unfortunately, things did not work out. However, I did not let this keep me from pursuing my degree. I was firm in my decision of not giving up the goal of becoming a nurse. As I looked into the School of Nursing at UTEP, I knew it was going to be hard. This was what drew me in. I accepted the challenge and have overcome many obstacles along the way. I am proud to represent UTEP and the School of Nursing, I take pride wearing my uniform because I know it has cost me so much to have made it this far.
What have you enjoyed most about studying here? I believe that one of the most important things that sets UTEP apart from other nursing programs is its professors. I have had the opportunity to be taught by amazing individuals. All of the professors push you to try your best. They set their expectations high and expect you to rise to the occasion, are there for you when you need additional help, want to see you succeed and, ultimately, help mold you into a great nurse. I am so grateful for every professor that has shared their passion for nursing and knowledge with me.
In which extracurricular activities are you involved? I am actively involved with the UTEP Chapter of the Texas Nursing Students Association (TNSA). Currently, I am the president of this 200-plus student organization. Through TNSA I have been able to serve a significant number of volunteer hours to help contribute to the community. Being a student officer has really impacted my experience as a nursing student. Staying involved with school activities has potentiated wonderful experiences and opportunities to network with professors, alumni and health care professionals. I am also the student representative for the Undergraduate Studies Committee (UGSC) for the School of Nursing and serve as a nursing student representative for the Interprofessional Collaboration student group (IPC).
What’s your favorite place to relax or study on campus? During the semester, it is quite odd for any nursing student to have time to “relax.” However, in order to be able to function (because we are only human), we require breaks in between our long study sessions. As funny as this might sound, I love relaxing within the Health Sciences and Nursing building. My favorite place would be any of the study rooms in the nursing building, or the study rooms at the Library. My study group and I shared many laughs, tears and knowledge within the four walls of these rooms.
What has been your favorite class so far, and why? My favorite classes were Adult Health I and II. In my opinion, these classes form the core of nursing practice. Although they were the most challenging classes during the course of the nursing program, they not only taught me the knowledge required to be able to practice nursing safely, but they also taught me to always believe in myself and the required discipline needed in order to become a safe and efficient nurse.
Tell us about a hands-on learning experience you’ve had at UTEP? Clinical rotations allowed me to acquire the hands-on learning experiences I needed in order to apply my knowledge from lecture and clinicals into real-life scenarios. Within the past semesters, my clinical rotations have allowed my communication skills, leadership and my confidence to improve significantly.
What are your career aspirations? I really enjoyed my critical care clinical rotation and was amazed by the fast-paced environment and the atmosphere of the emergency room. I hope to soak up as much knowledge as I can during my first years as a new nurse and return to UTEP to complete a graduate degree. I aspire to get my MSN in Nursing Education. I would pride myself on being an alumna teaching nursing students here at our beautiful campus. I would also love to share my story on how, even though it can be a bumpy road until you become a nurse, if you are determined, work hard, and stay persistent, no matter how long it takes — you will accomplish your career goals.
What’s your favorite UTEP event, and why? Orange and Blue Day has been my favorite UTEP event. This event allows high school students to visit our campus. It was really exciting to have students visit the School of Nursing. We were able to give them a tour of our Sim Lab and we answered many of their questions. As corny as this will sound, it made my heart smile when they seemed so genuinely interested in our nursing program. Sharing our experiences as nursing students to high school students really helped me realize that my classmates and I have come a long way with our education journey.
What advice would you give to an incoming UTEP student? You have made the best choice! I love being a UTEP Miner! My only piece of advice would be to work hard and never give up, no matter how hard things might get. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
What is your best UTEP memory so far? Although I am a transfer student and I was at UTEP for only two years, I created so many memories within my time here! TNSA opened so many doors for me and I will forever be grateful to have been able to represent and lead this extraordinary student organization. I worked with wonderful professors, health care professionals, and interacted with so many of my classmates during volunteer events. Aside from the great things, the adversities throughout nursing school allowed me to create the most amazing bonds and friendships. Upcoming graduation means leaving and going on to the real world to be a professional. But I get to take many wonderful memories with me. Picks up!
