Study groups help multicultural nursing students

Imagine enrolling in a challenging academic program with stringent requirements—in a language you are still learning. Now imagine that there is no room for error.  If your average test score is below 77%, you’re out of the program.

For a number of students in Holyoke Community College’s nursing program, that scenario is a reality. Their native language is Chinese, Japanese, Swahili, French, Spanish, Russian, Polish or Khmer. They are working full time and raising families, while struggling to do well in school.

To help them succeed, the Multicultural Nursing Club, sponsored by HCC Student Activities, was formed. This semester, one of the club’s initiatives has been to organize evening study groups to help students prepare for those difficult and all-important exams. Study groups are open to the entire class, and offer child care, dinner, and tutoring.

“Our thinking was, they don't need another textbook to read, web site to explore, or support group to attend,” said Kelly Keane, nursing success program coordinator. “They need someone to watch their kids. They need a break from cooking so they can focus on school. They need a tutor for guided study. These are the concrete solutions we give them to assist in their success.”

The first study group, held October 24, was an overwhelming success. From a class of 32 students, 21 showed up to prepare for an exam the following Monday. Faculty and the students family members assisted in childcare, and the tutor, Michelle Moeller, led an intensive content review sessions. ”It was very helpful to have Michelle go over the information with us. The study material she provided was extremely helpful. I also appreciated the childcare. My daughter made new friends!” said Barbara Maynard, who came with her daughter.

With another nursing exam set for Monday, November 17, the study group will be meeting again on Friday, November 14, with a final exam group scheduled in December. “Pizza, childcare, and tutoring doesn’t sound like much, but for students who are struggling to make a better life for themselves and their families, addressing the basics makes all the difference” remarked Keane. “And we’re here to make that difference.”

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