The Pre-Nursing program at Washington State University in Pullman, WA, plays a vital role in fostering community among Native American students in the Nursing program. These initiatives ensure students feel supported as they pursue careers in nursing, blending academic guidance with culturally relevant programming.
The Native Excellence through Trude Smith (NETS) program at the WSU College of Nursing is an essential part of the pre-health journey, designed to support Native American students on their path to entering the pre-licensure BSN program. Through monthly meetings—primarily virtual, with occasional in-person gatherings in Pullman and Spokane—students receive academic guidance, mentorship from peers and faculty, and preparation for admissions.
Participants also enjoy hands-on experiences like campus tours, simulation labs, and skills practice. With the added benefit of up to a $400 scholarship each semester, NETS fosters community, professional development with a connection to nursing.
The program is free to join, with the first cohort gearing up to apply in the upcoming enrollment cycle, creating an exciting opportunity for Native American students to grow and succeed together. For more information, contact Chris Sogge, Director of the Center for Student Excellence, chris.sogge@wsu.edu, or Theresa Bowden, Assistant Professor, theresa.bowden@wsu.edu.