Jessica Dennis
"My favorite thing about HCC is the diversity of ages, especially in the nursing program. We have 20-year-olds and 50-year-olds. I like that. I don't feel out of place being a little older because the majority are in their 30s."
Hometown:
Holyoke
Major:
Associate Degree in Nursing (RN program)
Favorite course:
I've loved my clinical rotations, especially maternity at Mercy Hospital. It was nice to be there for the whole process, from the time the mother is admitted to being part of the delivery.
Most meaningful encounter at HCC:
I've been at Holyoke Medical Center the whole year, working on different floors and it's a nice experience, living in Holyoke and doing my clinical there. I feel like I'm giving back to the community by taking care of patients from the city. The patients and their families are so grateful for your attention. You know you're doing good.
Why does education matter to you?
Without furthering my education I wouldn't be able to get the job I want. Education opens up so many doors. Being in the nursing field and being bilingual I feel like I can help my community even more. I need to show my kids the right way. If you stay in school, you'll get further. You won't be struggling.
What is your favorite thing about HCC?
The diversity of ages, especially in the nursing program. We have 20-year-olds and people in their 50s. I like that, so I don't feel out of place being a little older because the majority of us are in our 30s.
What courses are you taking this semester?
Role Development; Pharmacology; Complex Care Across the Lifespan; lab (SimU Center); clinicals
What's the most important thing you've learned at HCC?
They have a lot of resources here. When I first came here out of high school, 18 years ago, I didn't take advantage of all the support services and tutoring centers. You just need to tap in.
Where are you going from here?
I plan to get my bachelor's degree in nursing. I'm looking at the UMass School of Nursing. I would really like to stay and work in Holyoke.
