January 1, 2026
Evelyn, Faculty of Nursing Student
Growing up in a first responder family, I always knew I wanted to follow in those footsteps. I saw the impacts my relatives left daily and the lives they touched in their roles, and I wanted to do the same. Receiving my first stethoscope at six years old, that’s when I decided I wanted to go into healthcare, and when I got accepted into the UCalgary Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program, I was over the moon (and still am!) to start my journey towards my goals.
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Now in my second year, I didn’t know what to expect at first. The jump from high school to university felt intimidating, but I didn’t let the uncertainties stop me (and I’m glad it didn’t!). My first day at UCalgary was at Orientation, where I met so many amazing people and left feeling prepared to start my journey. Our orientation leaders were so kind and supportive throughout, and that inspired me to become an orientation leader this year with the hopes that I can do the same for other students who may feel nervous about starting at UCalgary. I’ve also explored other opportunities in and out of the UCalgary community to get involved.
Evelyn, Faculty of Nursing Student
Meet Evelyn: My Most Memorable Experience as a UCalgary Student
Growing up in a first responder family, I always knew I wanted to follow in those footsteps. I saw the impacts my relatives left daily and the lives they touched in their roles, and I wanted to do the same. Receiving my first stethoscope at six years old, that’s when I decided I wanted to go into healthcare, and when I got accepted into the UCalgary Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program, I was over the moon (and still am!) to start my journey towards my goals.
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Now in my second year, I didn’t know what to expect at first. The jump from high school to university felt intimidating, but I didn’t let the uncertainties stop me (and I’m glad it didn’t!). My first day at UCalgary was at Orientation, where I met so many amazing people and left feeling prepared to start my journey. Our orientation leaders were so kind and supportive throughout, and that inspired me to become an orientation leader this year with the hopes that I can do the same for other students who may feel nervous about starting at UCalgary. I’ve also explored other opportunities in and out of the UCalgary community to get involved.
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In my first year, I served as a co-chair for my year with the Undergraduate Nursing Society (UNS) and volunteered for the Open House and You at UCalgary! Outside of campus life, I also love to volunteer at the Foothills Medical Centre with the H.E.L.P. Program and as an athletic trainer for my former high school rugby team. The options are endless and are such a rewarding experience on top of the learning you do.
Outside of academics, I love to read, travel, journal, and spend time with people in and out of UCalgary. I’ve met so many people who study in various majors, including psychology, biology, kinesiology, film, and more. I even had the opportunity to spend time with a friend in Kingston, ON, where I got to meet other nursing students! It feels incredible to connect with others that have similar goals and gain experiences that I know will serve me as a future healthcare provider. UCalgary is the perfect environment to explore and connect with others passionate in interests similar to yours, and the community is amazing!
Outside of academics, I love to read, travel, journal, and spend time with people in and out of UCalgary. I’ve met so many people who study in various majors, including psychology, biology, kinesiology, film, and more. I even had the opportunity to spend time with a friend in Kingston, ON, where I got to meet other nursing students! It feels incredible to connect with others that have similar goals and gain experiences that I know will serve me as a future healthcare provider. UCalgary is the perfect environment to explore and connect with others passionate in interests similar to yours, and the community is amazing!
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The experiences and the connections I’ve made so far have contributed greatly to my growth as a student nurse. Modern-day nursing not only focuses on the medical aspects of patient care but also goes beyond the diagnosis. The BScN program places an emphasis on the nurse-patient relationship, as well as uses a holistic approach that places the individual at the centre of their care. It is the perfect blend of practical skills and relational care, and all my extracurriculars and connections have truly enriched my experiences and growth as a future healthcare provider.
On a closing note, I recommend going into UCalgary with an open mind and trying out things that you are interested in. Even though I’m still early into my journey, I’ve seen growth in all areas of myself as a student and as a person when I found the things I enjoyed doing, and you can too! With over 400+ clubs on campus and endless opportunities all throughout Calgary, you can find something you will love, and it’ll be so worth it! This is truly a transformative time in your life, and at UCalgary you can take advantage of that!