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We asked Maddie Clarizia ’25 who comes to Salem State from Danvers, MA, about her experience in the Salem State School of Nursing.

What are you studying at Salem State?

I major in Nursing with a minor in human biology and psychology.

Why did you decide to study nursing at Salem State?

I transferred to Salem State my sophomore year because I have always heard great things about this program and it is closer to home.

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

My favorite nursing course I've taken at Salem is Maternity with Leocadya McEnelly. I really enjoyed what I learned in this course and the clinical.

Have you had any jobs or internships in the nursing field while studying at Salem State? If so, please describe them.

I work at Salem Hospital in the recovery room as a PCA, I have worked here throughout nursing school. I also work in the Nursing Resource Center on campus.

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

I have always been very interested in working in Maternity. I also have an interest in cardiac, I was on a cardiac unit for clinical and I enjoyed that just as much as Maternity.

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

I have enjoyed being in this program. My professors are always going above and beyond to make sure we understand the information we are learning. There are so many resources here to help you do well in your classes and prepare you for after graduation.

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

Every semester I have seen growth in myself in a different way. I believe that is due to the friends I have made, the faculty in this nursing program and my hard work and determination. Everyone wants to see you succeed and they will help you get to where you want to go.

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?

I started college in 2020 during the pandemic. Going into college feeling like I didn’t close my high school chapter was a weird feeling. Everyone was so helpful making sure we had resources to get settled and succeed.

What do you love most about nursing in general?

It makes me happy to help others. Patients are coming into the hospital at a vulnerable time in their life and I would love to be able to advocate for them and give them the best possible care. I like the interactions with the patient and I love talking to them and listening to their stories.

What advice would you give to future nursing students?

I would say finding friends in nursing school is the best. Having someone to study with helped me throughout nursing school. It’s also just nice to have support and go through the years in this program with a friend. I think also to make sure you are taking time for yourself and having confidence in yourself. Nursing school is challenging, be kind to yourself. You can do it!