By Jemma Lipman
Badger nursing students embody many admirable characteristics. They are knowledgeable, hardworking, and determined to make a difference. One such student is Allie Young from Greenwood Village, Colorado. Young is currently a senior at UW–Madison. While many of her peers are preparing to graduate this year, Young is just beginning her nursing education as a first-year student in the School of Nursing’s traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. She plans to graduate in May 2026.
Growing up, Young knew she wanted to forge her own path. She valued independence and aspired to pursue a career that would not only fulfill her ambitions but also allow her to help others. She quickly realized health care was a natural fit. Initially, Young wanted to be a veterinarian and then a doctor. However, once she discovered nursing in high school, she knew it was perfect for her. The ability to connect with patients and serve others was unmatched.
Young is pursuing her passion as a Badger nursing student, and her journey is challenging. Her nursing classes are in session on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. These classes allow students to learn and grow in a positive environment, teaching them the complex knowledge necessary to excel in the health care industry. So far, her favorite class in the curriculum has been pathophysiology, which expanded on topics she found interesting in her pre-nursing classes. “It was fascinating to see the different diseases of the body systems,” Young shared. “I [also] established a connection with Dr. Snedden, our professor, because of our love for Colorado! At the beginning of class, she would ask us for announcements which allowed us to get to know our peers. I will miss her and the class!”
In addition to her academic classes, Young has her clinical rotation every Tuesday. The rotation takes place at Oakwood Village East and has been excellent. The hands-on experience is highly beneficial., “My clinical instructor, Leanne Lutz, was absolutely fantastic. The staff and patients were also amazing to work with, and it was overall a great facility.” Young even had the opportunity to shadow a working nurse practitioner one day.
Outside of her nursing education, Young is involved in several activities at UW–Madison. Juggling her job as a fitness instructor at the Nicholas Recreation Center, being an active sorority member, and working as a student ambassador is overwhelming. However, Young shares that this has taught her time management. “Structuring out study time in my schedule, going to study with friends, and studying in between classes and work has been key to my success.”
Young has much of her nursing education to look forward to. This includes more specialized clinical work, more time as a student ambassador, and the potential to study abroad in Malawi.
All the real-world experience and classroom work Young participates in prepares her for future aspirations. She hopes to start working in an emergency room in Chicago, Illinois. After gaining more experience, she aims to pursue labor and delivery by becoming a nurse practitioner. Adding to the emphasis on women’s health, Young aspires to start a residency program. The best advice Young would give aspiring nurses “is that it is ok to make mistakes and to jump out of your comfort zone. Also, saying yes to everything!” Young is one example of several students who constantly portray: “Badger nurses changing lives.”