By Macady Amparan

Staff Writer

MARPLE, Pa. — During February, Delaware County Community College held two information sessions titled “So You Want to Be a Nurse?” to help prospective students understand the expectations and responsibilities of a registered nurse. The sessions served as part one of a three-part hybrid series held at the Marple Campus and via Zoom.

At the first session, Feb 17., participants heard from Jason Stansberry, a DCCC counselor who works closely with the nursing department to help students navigate the program and other healthcare-related fields. Academic coach Abby Jefcoat led the second session on Feb 24. Through their guidance, students learned how to improve time management skills, understand the qualities of a strong nurse, manage career expectations, and gain confidence in their professional path.

Participants shared their motivations for choosing the field, which ranged from encouragement by loved ones to a lifelong desire to help others.

“I have wanted to be a nurse since I was 11 years old,” said one participant. “My little brother was born at 26 weeks and he’s had every sickness. Even though I was younger and he wasn’t my responsibility, I was so eager to learn about everything.”

Such personal experiences often serve as the primary motivation for entering the field. “A lot of times, personal experiences can excite that passion for wanting to go into that career,” Stansberry said. Another common trait among prospective nurses is a deep commitment to helping people during their most vulnerable moments.

Essential skills noted during the sessions included multitasking, strong communication, active listening, and the ability to perform under pressure. Organizers encouraged students to consider if their personality types align with the job’s demands, asking: “What are my top five career values? What values can be flexible? What are deal breakers?”

Adaptability in a fast-paced, unpredictable environment is another critical element. While nursing allows for work in various settings, it also exposes professionals to the more difficult aspects of healthcare, including bodily fluids, traumatic events, and sensitive conversations surrounding death.

The sessions also highlighted the critical need for more nurses. One slide featured the quote, “All nurses on an individual level are teachers.” Nurses balance multiple roles daily, acting as both lifelong learners and educators, whether explaining medical jargon to a patient or mentoring a new colleague.

The DCCC nursing program spans four semesters beginning each fall and prepares students for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) required for licensing. Both day and evening options are available. The program is thriving, having produced hundreds of graduates over the last five years. In 2025, the first-time NCLEX pass rate was 93.68%, and the job placement rate after graduation was 96%.

Part three of the series will be held Tuesday, March 3, focusing on the study skills required to excel in the program. Additionally, an open forum will take place in April, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions and engage in open discussion.