TAMIU Weekend Nursing Seminar Helps Students Decide on Career

Recently, students interested in a nursing career received an in-depth introduction to the field, thanks to a new program at Texas A&M International University's Dr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing. (photos)

Seven high school students spent their weekend at TAMIU, living on campus and visiting with health care professionals.

The three-day event, part of a three-year grant from the Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), brought together students from United Independent School District (UISD), Laredo ISD and St. Augustine High School.

Activities included tours of the City of Laredo Health Department, Laredo Medical Center and Doctors Hospital. Sessions on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automatic external defibrillator (AED), first aid and glucose monitoring were given in the afternoons, allowing students to gain practical knowledge and certification.

In addition, Laredo area professionals spoke to the students during meal breaks, discussing their careers and answering questions.

Carmen Bruni, TAMIU assistant professor of nursing and organizer of the weekend, said the students gained a rare insight into this highly sought-after profession.

"With the ever-present nursing shortage, the demand for nurses is increasing. By attending this program, the students get a very detailed introduction to the field, and can make a well informed decision about what they want after graduation," said Bruni.

She explained in the future the program will be able to include students from rural communities and surrounding counties.

For more information about the Canseco School of Nursing, please contact 326.2450 or click on http://www.tamiu.edu/cson/

University office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.