Student Experience

Opportunities In & Out of the Classroom

• Small classes allow maximum interaction with classmates and instructors in a program focused on student engagement and real-world experiences.
• Professional and service organizations allow students to serve their community and engage in activities that prepare them for the nursing profession.
• Student organizations arrange a variety of social activities throughout the academic year that allow students to relax and strengthen friendships.

Professional Development

National Student Nurses Association & Kansas Association of Nursing Students

All students become members of the national and state professional organization for students upon entry into the nursing program. We recommend that all nursing students become active members of the professional organization. A faculty member serves as an advisor for the organization.

ETA Kappa Chapter-at-Large

Eta Kappa Chapter-at-Large, a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, is a collaborative effort between Baker University School of Nursing and Washburn University School of Nursing. The purpose of Sigma Theta Tau International is to recognize superior achievement, recognize the development of leadership qualities, foster high professional standards, encourage creative work and strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession. Eligibility requirements include a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, rank of upper 35 percent of class, leadership skills and completion of at least one-half of the nursing curriculum and faculty endorsement. Inductions take place twice a year.

Student Activities

Student Senate Organization

Upon admission to the School of Nursing, all students automatically become members of Student Senate. Two representatives from each class and a faculty sponsor are elected. The officers represent the entire student body as it conducts service projects and social activities.

Chorus

All students with an interest in singing are invited to join the Baker University School of Nursing chorus. The chorus practices most Mondays over the lunch break for 35 to 40 minutes. The chorus performs before each Pinning Ceremony in May and December and for other events as requested. Instrumentalists (e.g., pianists, flutists, guitarists, violinists) are also invited to accompany the chorus.

Ambassador Program

Students can apply to become an ambassador at the end of first level. Students are selected by faculty and staff. Ambassadors are expected to represent the school in a professional manner. Orientation to ambassador responsibilities is provided at the beginning of second level. Ambassadors receive $50 toward book expenses for second, third and fourth levels and are expected to participate in a minimum of four events each semester.

Pinning Committee

Three or more students are selected from each level to assist in the planning of the Pinning Ceremony each semester. This committee generally meets twice a semester. Students scheduled to graduate make decisions regarding food, music, flowers, awards, speakers and budget. Students in lower levels learn the process and volunteer to assist with distributing programs and serving food and punch at the reception.

Trinity Lutheran Committee

Several students are selected from each level to meet with representatives from Trinity Lutheran Church once a semester. The purpose of this committee is to determine how Trinity can assist nursing students and how nursing can provide some support for their members. Trinity Lutheran Church is three blocks from Baker School of Nursing and has provided lunches, snacks, graduation gifts, spiritual support and more for our students. The School of Nursing helps to manage a blood pressure clinic at the church and assists the church with fund-raisers, Adopt-a-Family and more.

Nurses Christian Fellowship

All students are invited to join Nurses Christian Fellowship, a nondenominational group affiliated with Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship. There are no dues. The meeting times will be determined at the beginning of each semester to accommodate the needs of participants.

Religious Services

Baker University School of Nursing students have full access to Stormont-Vail's Chapel of Our Merciful Savior. The chapel is open 24 hours a day, and chaplains are available around the clock to respond to emergency needs. For more information, visit their Web site.

Nursing students may also participate in religious activities located on the Baker campus in Baldwin City.