The School of Nursing is proud to introduce the 2022-23 student ambassadors. The student ambassadors are traditional bachelor of science in nursing students who serve as representatives of the School of Nursing. Through various outreach initiatives, student ambassadors offer insights to prospective undergraduate students and their families and connect with School of Nursing alumni, donors, and friends. They also serve as peer advisors for current nursing students and pre-nursing students.
Meet the 2022-23 Student Ambassadors
Holly Adams x’24
Holly Adams pursues her passion for nursing beyond the four walls of Cooper Hall through her work as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at UW Health. She stays inspired to go above and beyond the curriculum through her peers and the greater Madison community.
“I chose to attend the UW–Madison School of Nursing because of its high national quality ranking, incredible opportunities, and love for the UW–Madison community,” says Adams. “My favorite experience in my nursing education so far was the time spent with other nursing school candidates in our group interview. Getting to know each other and connect so well made me feel much more comfortable and excited about nursing.”
When Adams isn’t studying in Curran Commons, she’s spending time with her friends and family. Making time for her loved ones, especially her identical twin sister, is how Adams likes to unwind from a busy day of studying.
The best part of being a student ambassador to Adams is the connections she gets to make with pre-nursing students, particularly when it comes to the stress-inducing application process.
“My favorite part of being a student ambassador is peer advising,” says Adams. “I remember being super stressed out about the whole application process, so I love being able to support pre-nursing students during that time!”
In the future, Adams hopes to further her education and receive her doctorate in nursing practice (DNP) following her graduation from nursing school in 2024. She is excited about the impact that she will be able to make on someone’s life every single day.
Nicole Bartels x’24
Nicole Bartels aspires to be a nurse practitioner in women’s health. After exploring the resources UW–Madison had to offer, Bartels saw the School of Nursing as the place that would help her achieve all her goals now and in the future.
From the innovative spaces to the numerous outstanding clinical locations, to the support from faculty and staff — Bartels feels she found a home within the nursing school.
“The School of Nursing has new, updated technologies and spaces to aid in learning such as the simulation labs, classrooms, and study areas,” says Bartels. “The staff that I have met have been so responsive and helpful, they are clearly very committed to my success. Some clinical rotations are at amazing nearby Madison hospitals with countless opportunities for networking to plan for post-grad. The UW campus feels like home. Because it is home.”
Outside of the classroom, you can find Bartels getting ice cream and watching the sunset on the Memorial Union Terrace or listening to Taylor Swift on repeat — she’s one of the top 0.05% of listeners on Spotify!
To combine her passions for medicine and music, Bartels is a member of the executive board for Dance Marathon at UW–Madison, a student organization that raises money and awareness for Children’s Wisconsin through events filled with fun tunes and activities.
As a student ambassador, Bartels has enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people and learn about their own experiences and interests. She hopes that all prospective students understand the numerous opportunities that a nursing degree offers them.
“I wanted to become a student ambassador to spread my passion for UW–Madison’s School of Nursing, to share my personal experience, and to learn more about other students, alumni, and staff,” says Bartels. “I would advise prospective nursing students to really explore what a degree in nursing can provide them and all the opportunities it allows for. It is such a broad and diverse degree and there are so many things you can do with one.”
Annaly Garcia x’23
Annaly Garcia saw the ambassador program as an opportunity to share her unique experiences with prospective and current nursing students. Garcia’s campus involvement and community were an inspiration to her, and she is excited to share that inspiration with others.
“I have unique experiences within the nursing school that may be of interest to potential students and families,” says Garcia. “I wished I saw more students that looked like me, so I want potential students to picture themselves through me, and even think ‘I can and will be where she is.’”
In addition to her involvement within the School of Nursing, Garcia is also a member of the Multicultural Student Nursing Organization (MSNO) as well as an active participant in the Multicultural Student Center’s (MSC) events. Her favorite campus tradition is the MSC annual study jams which provide a fun way to study and connect with peers during the stress-inducing midterm and final exam weeks.
As a Milwaukee native, Garcia chose the UW–Madison School of Nursing because of its proximity to home and the excellent program that continues to provide challenging experiences with rewarding results. Some of these challenges turn into some of her favorite memories of nursing school, such as Garcia’s first injection during clinicals.
“It was really scary at first, but I felt amazing afterward,” says Garcia.
When Garcia isn’t studying in between the whiteboards on the first floor of Cooper Hall, she can be found exploring different coffee shops in Madison for the perfect lavender latte to pair with her favorite book or scrolling on social media to find new recipes to share to her “foodie” account.
After graduation this spring, Garcia hopes to travel the world and find a place to explore and expand her knowledge of nursing, specifically in women’s health. While she found a path in nursing that she is passionate about pursuing, she would advise others to explore a variety of options.
“Do some shadowing to get a feel for the environment,” says Garcia. “There are many paths you can take, so it’s helpful to get an idea of where you might see yourself.”
Alexandra Goldenberg x’24
A tried-and-true UW–Madison tradition is for students to visit the statue of Abraham Lincoln at the top of Bascom Hill during finals weeks in search of good luck on their upcoming exams. As a first-year nursing student, Alexandra Goldenberg plans on visiting Lincoln and rubbing his foot for luck of her own.
In addition to the fun traditions the UW community provides, Goldenberg chose the School of Nursing because of the plethora of opportunities she has as a Badger nurse.
“I was impressed by the program’s opportunities it offered to its students, as well as the community within the UW–Madison School of Nursing,” says Goldenberg. “From nursing clubs to the pre-nursing curriculum, I have learned the discipline and passion needed to succeed in higher-level science classes.”
One piece of advice she would give someone considering nursing would be to gain their own experience. Getting involved within the field is highly valuable when deciding the right career path.
“Try to get involved in a nursing position, whether it’s being a nursing aide, a helping aide, or a volunteer to explore more about nursing to see if it is right for you,” says Yarn.
After graduating from the School of Nursing in 2024, Goldenberg aspires to become a nurse practitioner. You may even find her whispering these aspirations into Lincoln’s ear before graduation!
Danielle Harris x’23
Danielle Harris chose the UW–Madison School of Nursing for its well-rounded education and the endless support that surrounds all students.
“I chose to attend the UW–Madison School of Nursing because of its amazing focus on innovation, leadership in nursing, and its concept-based curriculum,” says Harris. “I also found a great community of friends and mentors throughout my nursing journey here that motivated me even more to attend nursing school here.”
Inspired by the ambassadors before her, Harris felt called to share the wealth of knowledge she’s gained from the program with others as a student ambassador herself.
“I really valued the mentorship I received from upperclassmen during my pre-nursing years, and I became inspired to pass along the knowledge I gained to prospective and pre-nursing students,” says Harris. “As a student ambassador, I get to help other students that were once in my shoes!”
Harris values the peer advising aspect of being an ambassador the most; she empathizes with the drastic changes that may happen from choosing to attend nursing school. From pointing out her favorite study spot on the second floor of Cooper Hall during tours to sharing insights on what studying methods work best for her, Harris is enthusiastic about supporting all potential and current nursing students.
In addition to being an ambassador, Harris is the president of the Multicultural Student Nursing Organization (MSNO), a student organization that is dedicated to improving students of color’s experience within the nursing curriculum and advocating for culturally competent education for all nursing students.
Following her graduation this spring, Harris intends to work as a registered nurse with a postpartum or labor and delivery specialty. One piece of advice Harris could give to students considering nursing education would be to make connections and build a network of support as soon as possible.
“Put yourself out there!” says Harris. “Network and establish professional relationships with professors, co-workers, and even peers!”
Karl Hummel x’23
After graduating in 2021 from UW–Madison’s College of Letters & Science with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Karl Hummel returned to the School of Nursing to pursue a degree in nursing. Hummel noted that the interactive teaching model allows him to practice a variety of valuable skills.
“My favorite experience so far in nursing school has been practicing real-life skills in the simulation lab,” says Hummel. “I feel that hands-on learning gained in the simulation lab will be very applicable once I graduate.”
These diverse experiences have allowed Hummel to feel prepared for the next stages of his career and education. After graduating from nursing school this year, he intends to work on a cardiovascular intensive care unit (ICU) before applying for nurse anesthesia programs.
After class, Hummel is studying for his next exam in the second-floor study rooms in Cooper Hall, training for the next triathlon with the UW Triathlon team, or learning more about the ins and outs of cardiology from the student organization Cardiac on Campus. On the weekends you can find Hummel Jumping Around during the third quarter of Badger Football games at Camp Randall.
As an aspiring nurse anesthetist, Hummel would advise anyone who is considering nursing to be patient and focused.
“Nursing is a career that will always be in demand, has opportunities for advancement, and can be very rewarding,” says Hummel.
Julie Jones x’24
Julie Jones found her path to nursing through the First-Year Interest Group (FIG) for Global Health in Nursing.
“The coursework was interesting, and I really enjoyed meeting other students who were interested in nursing,” says Jones.
Jones chose the UW–Madison School of Nursing because of the innovation it inspires, and the comprehensive and challenging curriculum that is tailored to students. As a co-chair for the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) student organization, Jones is continually looking for ways to stay involved on campus. It is one of her favorite aspects of being a student ambassador for the School of Nursing.
“I love learning new things about the nursing program and being able to connect with others,” says Jones.
In addition to the outstanding academic reputation the school has to offer, Jones loves campus life and traditions like Jumping Around in the third quarter of Badger Football games. If she’s not at Camp Randall, you may also find her at the infamous Dane County Farmers’ Market or watching the sunset at the Memorial Union Terrace with friends.
Jones aspires to become a pediatric nurse practitioner and would advise anyone who has similar interests to look for opportunities to gain experience.
“Get exposure and learn as much about it as you can! Nursing is a great career with many different routes,” says Jones.
MJ Joseph, x’23
From the instructors and faculty to her peers, MJ Joseph feels that the School of Nursing has played an instrumental role in shaping the leader she is today. Joseph chose UW–Madison because of the strong culture and intimate learning environment.
“The culture of the school is what drew me to it,” says Joseph. “The faculty and staff at the school really seemed to care about their students, which — with me coming from a small high school to a big university — was very comforting! Also, the very close friends that I made in my clinical group as well as my instructors have shaped me into the human I am today — someone who is kind and compassionate and who loves to learn.”
Following her graduation this spring, Joseph hopes to work on an emergency or intensive care unit (ICU) nursing. Then, in a few years, she hopes to return to UW–Madison to further her education and earn a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP) in acute care.
Outside of the classroom, Joseph loves staying involved on campus. She is an active member of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and the Student Nursing Association (SNA). She also plays intramural soccer and has a black belt in Taekwondo.
Joseph became a student ambassador to provide support for her peers and make an impact on the future generation of nurses.
“I wanted to be able to use my voice as a student of color to advocate for my fellow classmates,” says Joseph. “I also wanted to be more involved in not only my education but those of the nurses following me.”
One piece of advice Joseph would give students considering a career in nursing would simply be to try it out.
“If you’re considering it… DO IT!” says Joseph. “Be part of a profession that without a doubt breeds leaders and advocates as well as some of the best human beings the world has to offer. While the road to being a nurse is not always easy… it is always worth it.”
Madisin Randolph x’24
Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Madisin Randolph chose to head northwest to pursue her degree in nursing. The UW–Madison School of Nursing’s commitment to improving its diversity and inclusion efforts is what stood out to Randolph. The culture and community that supports all its students, she notes, are what set the school apart.
“I chose to attend the UW–Madison School of Nursing because of its dedication towards improving diversity and inclusivity,” says Randolph. “The large amount of resources available and community feel within the school attracted me to the program.”
Additionally, she gravitated toward the vast amount of research opportunities and innovation that the school inspires. Her pre-nursing years sparked a particular interest in research that she is excited to be able to explore with the resources that the school of nursing provides.
“A significant memory I have is learning about participatory research, which involves allowing the population that you are researching to have input on the research and how it is conducted,” says Randolph. “Learning this not only sparked my interest in conducting research but also showed that there are so many possibilities when it comes to my research and how I can use this to positively impact communities.”
Her interests currently lie in working within an emergency or neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) specialty following her graduation in 2024. More than anything, however, Randolph wants to further her education and learn how to improve health care systems in many different regards.
“In the long term, I hope to use the experiences I’ve gained as a registered nurse to foster impactful changes at higher levels,” says Randolph. “In proceeding to graduate school, I wish to not only become well versed in a specific specialty but also build relationships with others in order to tackle the systemic issues within the health care system.”
A piece of advice Randolph would give to all prospective nursing students is to:
“Stay humble! There are so many opportunities to learn from peers, ask questions, and observe others. By being aware of your own strengths and flaws, you are able to grow and learn from the people around you, which is so beneficial to your nursing career.”
Ariana Yarn x’23
As a Madison native, Ariana Yarn is no stranger to the close community that UW–Madison and the greater city area breed. The support that she feels and the opportunities that have been presented made staying home to pursue her degree in nursing an easy decision.
“I did my prerequisites at UW and really enjoyed it,” says Yarn. “I loved the community I built and the support system I have from my scholarship, so I wanted to continue my nursing career here.”
Although graduation is just around the corner for Yarn, she’s still exploring her options for a possible specialty. She knows that she is in the great hands of the UW faculty and staff and is taking her journey one step at a time. One piece of advice she would give to prospective nursing students would be to practice this same composure.
“Nursing is very rewarding, but it can also be very challenging,” says Yarn. “My advice would be to practice having patience because you’ll need it for many aspects of nursing.”
While the curriculum is packed with rich information to give a well-rounded education, Yarn’s favorite aspect of nursing school is putting what she learns in the textbooks into practice.
“My favorite experience from my nursing education is when what I’ve been taught in the classroom connects during my clinical rotation,” says Yarn. “It makes me feel accomplished when I am able to bring things to a full circle.”