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We asked Jaya Germon ’25, who comes to Salem State from Dallas TX and now resides in Waltham, about her experience in the Salem State School of Nursing.

Why did you decide to study nursing at Salem State?

I chose to study nursing at Salem State because I was drawn to the program’s strong focus on hands-on clinical experience and its reputation for preparing students for real-world challenges. I also liked the smaller class sizes, which allow for more personalized attention from professors. I also appreciate the close-knit, collaborative environment—it's not just about getting through the program, but about being fully prepared to step into the workforce as a competent, compassionate nurse.

What has been your favorite nursing course at Salem State so far? Who taught it?

My favorite course so far has been Med-Surg Nursing with Professor Marion Frost. This course was particularly engaging because it’s such a pivotal part of nursing education, focusing on adult health and the management of patients with complex medical conditions. Professor Frost has a way of breaking down complex material and making it understandable. She always creates a dynamic classroom environment, encouraging discussion.

Have you had any jobs or internships in the nursing field while studying at Salem State?

Yes, I currently work as a PCA (Personal Care Assistant) while studying at Salem State. This role allows me to gain hands-on experience with patient care, assisting with activities of daily living, taking vital signs, and providing emotional support. It’s been a great way to apply what I’m learning in the nursing program and build my skills in a real-world healthcare setting

What kind of nursing care do you plan to pursue? Is there a nursing specialty you are interested in?

I’m passionate about pursuing psychiatric nursing, especially after gaining experience working in a mental health setting. I’ve had the chance to support patients dealing with a variety of mental health conditions, and it’s made me even more interested in this specialty. I find the therapeutic aspect of psychiatric care—building trust, providing emotional support, and helping patients navigate their recovery—extremely rewarding.

Describe your experience in Salem State's School of Nursing. In what ways have your courses prepared you to be a nurse?

My experience in Salem State’s School of Nursing has been amazing. The courses have been rigorous, but they’ve thoroughly prepared me for real-world nursing practice. The combination of lectures, hands-on skills labs, and clinical rotations has helped me build both my theoretical knowledge and practical skills. I feel like I’m constantly learning something new that I can apply right away, and the professors are always supportive, making sure we are well-prepared for each stage of the program.

What have you liked most about studying nursing at Salem State?

What I’ve liked most about studying nursing at Salem State is the sense of community. The faculty really care about your success, and you get to know your peers well, which is important because nursing is such a collaborative field. The clinical experiences have been amazing, too—they’ve allowed me to learn in real healthcare settings with patients who really need my care. 

What has it been like to study and/or work in the nursing field during the COVID-19 pandemic? What challenges have you had to overcome?

Working in the nursing field during the COVID-19 pandemic has been both challenging and rewarding. There were a lot of adjustments—clinical placements had to be rescheduled, and there were new safety protocols to follow, which sometimes created uncertainty. But at the same time, the pandemic reinforced how crucial nursing is, and it motivated me to work even harder. It made me more adaptable and taught me how to provide care in rapidly changing environments.

What do you love most about nursing in general?

Nursing also offers endless opportunities for growth and specialization, so it’s a career that can evolve with you. What I love most about nursing is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives. Whether it’s comforting a patient during a difficult procedure or educating them on managing a chronic condition, I get to build meaningful relationships and advocate for their well-being. or offering a listening ear when they’re feeling isolated, those small acts of kindness are what make nursing some meaningful to me.

What advice would you give to future nursing students?

Nursing school can feel overwhelming at times, so it’s important to take care of yourself along the way. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and finding time to stay active. Taking care of your mental health is just as crucial, so don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you’re feeling stressed or uncertain. Allow yourself to take breaks and do things that recharge you. By staying connected with others and being kind to yourself, you’ll not only succeed in nursing school, but also grow into the caring and resilient nurse you’re meant to be.