Welcome to Gustavus Adolphus College’s Student Stories Series!
2026 Harvard Undergraduate World Pre-Health Conference Attendee
Major: Nursing
How did you get the opportunity/experience? What steps did you take to achieve this?
I applied through the Harvard Undergraduate World Pre-Health Conference website and took the initiative to seek out funding through the Center for Career Development. I was proactive in identifying this opportunity, completing the application, and pursuing support through the Engaged Learning Fund to make the experience possible.
Tell us more about your accomplishment (include title, role, location, program, etc.)
I attended the Harvard Undergraduate World Pre-Health Conference as a participant in Boston, Massachusetts. This national conference brings together undergraduate students and healthcare professionals to explore current topics in healthcare, patient care, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
During the conference, I participated in sessions focused on healthcare innovation, clinical practice, and the evolving roles within healthcare teams. I also had the opportunity to connect with students and professionals from across the country, which expanded my perspective on different pathways within healthcare and strengthened my professional development.
Who were some of the people who helped you most at Gustavus to get this opportunity? What did you learn from them?
Faculty within the nursing department and advisors at the Center for Career Development were very supportive throughout this process. They encouraged me to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom and emphasized the importance of professional development. From them, I learned the value of taking initiative, being proactive in seeking opportunities, and building confidence in professional settings. Their guidance helped me step outside of my comfort zone and take advantage of experiences that contribute to my growth as a future nurse.
How did the Engaged Learning Funds help you be able to complete this experience?
The Engaged Learning Funds made it possible for me to attend this conference by helping cover travel and participation costs. Without this support, it would have been difficult for me to take part in this opportunity. The funding allowed me to focus on learning, networking, and gaining as much as possible from the experience.
Anything else you want to share about your experience working with Career Development?
The Center for Career Development made the process clear and accessible, and I appreciated the support in helping me pursue this opportunity. Programs like the Engaged Learning Fund make a meaningful difference by allowing students to take part in experiences that support their academic and professional growth.
How have you applied things you’ve learned here at Gustavus to this opportunity? (i.e., Career & Self Development, Communication, Critical Thinking, Equity & Inclusion, Leadership, Professionalism, Teamwork, Technology)
My experience at Gustavus prepared me to fully engage in this opportunity through strong communication, critical thinking, and professionalism. As a nursing student, I have developed the ability to analyze complex situations and think critically about patient care, which helped me better understand the topics discussed at the conference. I also applied teamwork and communication skills when interacting with other students and professionals, allowing me to build meaningful connections. Gustavus has emphasized the importance of holistic, patient-centered care, which aligned closely with many of the discussions at the conference.
