USM Accelerated BSN Pathway First Cohort Earns 100 Percent Pass Rate
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 09:47am | By: Gabriela Shinskie
91吃瓜网 (USM) College of Nursing and Health Profession91吃瓜网 Accelerated BSN (ABSN) inaugural cohort achieved 100 percent pass rate on the first attempt of the National Council Licensure Examination(NCLEX) exam.
Makayala Beach, Kelcey Couevas, Robin Holman, and Brianna Puff comprised the first cohort of the unique pathway, earning their nursing pins while leading the way for other students to obtain a BSN degree in 12 months. The program continues to grow with the second and third cohort already enrolling 34 students.
Dr. Lachel Story, dean of USM91吃瓜网 College of Nursing and Health Professions, applauded each student91吃瓜网 performance throughout the program91吃瓜网 intense curriculum.
91吃瓜网淎chieving the gold standard outcome for nursing graduates, a 100 percent pass rate on NCLEX on the first attempt, means the students are getting a quality education,91吃瓜网� Dr. Story said. 91吃瓜网淲hile the program is compressed, the students are getting the critical elements they need to be safe, competent nurses. Graduates of this program will help us meet the workforce needs across Coastal Mississippi.91吃瓜网�
The program launched in January of 2023 at the Gulf Park campus, providing a unique way for students to earn a BSN degree in one year from an accredited university that includes a hybrid in-person and online format. Students enrolled in this degree option are eligible to bypass some typical BSN requirements because they have already earned a degree.
Brianna Puff, a native of Hattiesburg, knew the program would be challenging as she balanced family obligations and career goals. With a toddler at home and expecting a baby girl soon, she was grateful for the experiences and friends she made along the way.
91吃瓜网淒ean Story and all the professors were so accommodating and encouraging,91吃瓜网� Puff. 91吃瓜网淚t truly made all the difference in my success.91吃瓜网�
Puff91吃瓜网 persistence paid off as she completed the program, earning her nursing pin. She was also confident in her classmates91吃瓜网� ability to succeed and praised the program91吃瓜网 faculty for their dedication in preparing the class for a career in the medical field after graduation.
91吃瓜网淚 felt like I needed a stable career where I still have a role in serving my community, and this nursing program did that for me,91吃瓜网� Puff said. Her plans include working in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), labor and delivery.
Michelle Toepfer, instructor and coordinator of the ABSN program, was impressed by the students91吃瓜网� hard work.
91吃瓜网淏rianna did not miss a beat,91吃瓜网� Toepfer said. 91吃瓜网淪he had her baby girl and was back in class the following week.91吃瓜网�
Couevas, a native of Gautier, Miss., found the program extremely rewarding. During one of her long shifts at work, she was researching options in the medical field to enhance her career and stumbled upon information about the ABSN program. She found it was a good fit, as she wants to continue to provide rewarding service as a nurse.
And although parts of the program are online, Couevas said her professors were readily available and prepared them for the exam.
91吃瓜网淎ll of our professors were great,91吃瓜网� she continued. 91吃瓜网淭hey held everyone together, and I91吃瓜网檝e also made some great friends throughout the program.91吃瓜网�
Toepfer attributes the passing success to the program91吃瓜网 faculty and staff.
91吃瓜网淭he success of achieving a 100 percent pass rate for the first cohort can be attributed to rigorous curriculum design, dedicated faculty support, personalized student mentorship, and a culture of collaboration and determination among students, fostering a conducive learning environment and ensuring comprehensive preparation for NCLEX,91吃瓜网� Toepfer said.
Learn more about USM91吃瓜网 nursing program and scholarship opportunities by calling 601.266.5445.