In my future, which feels both distant and close, my dream is to attend James Madison University. Specifically, I plan to enroll in their nursing school and earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing. Following graduation, my goal is to secure an internship and employment as a registered nurse at a hospital. This upcoming year marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life as I become a nursing student at James Madison University, fulfilling my childhood ambitions and paving the way towards becoming a registered nurse.
During my search for the perfect university, I have realized that not all schools are a good fit for every student. Initially, Virginia Tech seemed appealing to me as my older brother is currently in his second year there. However, witnessing his waning enthusiasm for the school has made me reconsider my decision. Further investigation revealed that Virginia Tech does not offer the major I intend to pursue.
Since I was young, my dream has always been to pursue a career in nursing. However, Virginia Tech, the school I desired to attend or apply to, places significant emphasis on test scores, which greatly diminishes my chances of acceptance. It is important to mention that I have never excelled in standardized testing as evidenced by my unsatisfactory SAT and ACT results. Consequently, I believe it would be highly unlikely for me to gain admission into Virginia Tech due to their stringent admission requirements.
On the contrary, James Madison University (JMU), the university that appeals to me more, recently implemented a “test optional” policy where submission of SAT and ACT scores is no longer mandatory for applications. Moreover, JMU’s nursing program enjoys widespread recognition throughout the United States.
On top of it all, I’ve grown up going to JMU football games, decked out in purple, white, and gold with my favorite alumni, my mom. James Madison University is described in the article ames Madison University as, “A large, 4-year, public university. This coed college is located in a large town in a rural setting and is primarily a residential campus” (“James Madison University”). Each of these details are additions to the list of reasons why I am attracted to JMU as my future home. In conclusion, the application process as a senior in high school makes students like myself quickly realize where we belong and what situation is best for our futures.
When and if I am accepted into James Madison, my main priorities, apart from nursing, are forging new friendships, engaging in my beloved sport, and pursuing my education. On a personal note, I faced challenges in forming deep connections with peers during high school. However, this setback has served as a driving force for me to rectify the situation and find true companionship in college. Additionally, I have dedicated nine years of my life to playing lacrosse. As a young girl grasping a stick, I never fathomed the profound significance this sport would hold for me today.
My objective is to audition for the JMU Women’s Club lacrosse team, secure a spot on the roster, and participate in the sport throughout my entire college journey. This endeavor will afford me chances to forge new friendships and further enhance my proficiency in a sport that has ignited my passion since childhood. Moreover, I intend to prioritize nurturing genuine relationships during my college years. By doing so, I aspire to establish a supportive atmosphere that aids in conquering the anxiety I previously encountered when trying to connect with unfamiliar individuals at Loudoun County HS.
Last, but not least, my education at James Madison or where I end up attending. Before students can apply and study in the nursing program, a certain amount of general education classes is required. These include social studies, language arts, math, etc. There are, however, a few pre-requisites on top of those that I must take to be eligible to apply to the nursing school, including chemistry and biology. One piece of information regarding JMU Nursing school from Bachelor of Science in Nursing states that, “Students begin courses in the 4-Semester Nursing Program usually at the beginning of the junior year. The 2- year nursing program of study includes 59 credit hours of core nursing courses and 2 required credit hours of Nursing Elective Courses” (“Bachelor of Science in Nursing”).
