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When Michelle Novominski was five years old, she told her mother that she wanted to be a nurse during career day and never looked back. True to her word, Michelle is now her final semester of the RN-4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in the ����ר�� College of Health Professions (CHP) Lienhard School of Nursing (LSN).

In the four years since her college journey began, Michelle has carved out a path for herself in the CHP community and her program by joining the (NSNA), and the - both of which she now holds leadership roles in.

We connected with Michelle to learn about her passion for nursing, her experiences at ����ר��, and the importance of being involved during your college journey.

Why nursing?

As an older sister, I frequently ran around with my first aid kit, putting Band-Aids on anyone in need, whether it was a scraped knee or a pretend injury. It was my innate way of helping. The desire to care for others was always in my heart. Working with patients now further reinforces that feeling, and I am so grateful to be following my destined path!

How did you discover CHP?

I was looking for nursing programs that offered a strong foundation and early clinical experience. ����ר��’s direct entry into the nursing program with the opportunity to quickly immerse myself in the field strongly appealed to me. Additionally, the clinical placements at renowned hospitals across Westchester and NYC drew me in further - NewYork Presbyterian, Westchester Medical Center, and Memorial Sloan Kettering to name a few. I knew that I would be learning in top-notch healthcare settings with unwavering support along the way.

What made LSN's Bachelor of Science in Nursing stand out to you?

From the moment I set foot on campus, I felt a strong sense of community and support. From attending nursing special interest campus tours to sitting in on nursing classes, the professors and advisors made it clear they were there to help us succeed on all fronts. The program quickly immerses you by providing hands-on experience in your sophomore year. The simulation labs on campus are ultra-realistic, and they gave me a safe space to practice and make mistakes before going into a hospital setting.

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What inspired you to be involved with the National Student Nurses Association?

I first got involved with the NSNA as a freshman class representative, and it has been one of the best decisions I have made. Instantly enthralled from the start, I met other nursing students, soaked up advice from experienced nurses, and got a front-row seat to all things nursing. Eventually, I became president and had the chance to organize events on campus and attend four NSNA annual conventions in Salt Lake City, Nashville, Orlando, and Seattle! It was an honor to create a poster presentation showcasing research and to serve as a delegate, where I voted on resolutions and took part in shaping the future of nursing. The connections I made, and the advocacy work I took part in were invaluable, and I am grateful for the experiences NSNA gave me. My professors, Dr. Stephanie Allen and Dr. Cindy Paradiso were instrumental in providing the opportunities to attend conferences and serve on our school chapter's executive board.

What other programs at ����ר�� do you participate in?

I am a proud member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) and joined to connect with passionate nursing leaders. As the Leadership Succession Committee chair, member, and serving ono he board, I have had the exceptional opportunity to be a student voice and advocate for my peers. I oversee member development, elections, and work to engage nursing colleagues to actively participate in the chapter.

It has been inspiring to collaborate with professors and leaders in the nursing profession, gaining valuable insights into leadership, scholarship, and service. Being able to help guide future nursing leaders, create opportunities for students, and advocate has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

—Michelle Novominski, RN-4 class of 2025

I am looking forward to continuing to work on the board and staying active far beyond graduation!

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You recently ran an event in the SIM labs - Code Blue - what was this experience like?

Helping organize the Code Blue event, Cracking the Code: Mastering Cardiac Emergencies, was like starring in our own episode of Grey’s Anatomy—minus the dramatic music and love triangles. Hosted by Sigma and NSNA, we turned the simulation lab into a high-stakes cardiac crash course. The event provided nursing students with a unique opportunity to practice running a Code Blue simulation. What made it particularly unique was hearing from a cardiac ICU nurse and a cardiac arrest survivor—it reminded us all why we do what we do. The energy in the room was unmatched, and it was such a great mix of learning, teamwork, and real-world insight. One of my favorite experiences so far in nursing school!

Why do you think it is good to get involved with different clubs and organizations during college?

Involvement with clubs and organizations is a great way to meet people outside of classes, build connections, and feel more part of the community. It also helps grow leadership and communication skills, both important aspects of nursing. Plus, being involved gives you a break from academic stress and reminds you why you chose this path in the first place.

What advice would you give to other nursing students about getting involved during college?

Do not shy away from unique opportunities; get out there and get involved! Nursing school can be a wild ride, but joining clubs and organizations makes the whole experience more fun and meaningful. You will gain leadership experience, make new friends, and score some free snacks along the way.

Getting involved helps you build confidence, make connections, and discover passions you didn’t even know you had. You are not just here to pass the NCLEX, you are here to grow, thrive, and change the world (one nursing club meeting at a time).

—Michelle Novominski, RN-4 class of 2025

Are there any moments in particular in the RN-4 program that stand out to you?

Sharing the knowledge I have gained through mentoring is just as rewarding as receiving guidance from my own mentor. In the Fall 2024 semester, I had the privilege of being a Peer Leader for 24 first-year Honors Nursing students. It was incredibly rewarding to help them adjust to university life and support their academic journeys. I led weekly sessions on nursing careers and success strategies, facilitated team-building activities, and provided one-on-one guidance on classes and student life. Working with Melissa Minotti, associate director, First Year Student Experience, and seeing these students grow as future nurses has been rewarding, and I am excited to continue supporting them through their academic journey!

What are your plans post-graduation?

I would love to work in a critical care setting, such as the ICU. The challenging nature of the ICU is intellectually stimulating, fast-paced, and intense. I enjoy problem-solving, thinking quickly, and figuring things out. Additionally, I value the teamwork in that environment and the chance to make a real difference during such critical moments. Since the first time I worked in an ICU during my Northwell nurse externship, it felt like home.

Anything else you'd like to share?

“Don’t ever let anyone extinguish your glow, because it hits them in the eye”- words from my mentor that fueled my confidence and ambition. Throughout nursing school, I have been blessed to have incredible mentors, professors, and friends who have been my support system. They pushed me to be the best version of myself, challenged me to grow, and kept me grounded when things felt overwhelming. In times of stress, they were there to comfort me, offering both a listening ear and words of encouragement that I will never forget. They believed in me even when I had doubts, standing by my side through it all. I am incredibly grateful for their constant support and kindness. Without them, this journey would not have been the same. Their belief in me has made all the difference, and I truly appreciate everything they have done to help me get to this point.

Michelle is on track to graduate May 2025 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing , following which she will take the NCLEX. We wish her the best of luck on her exam and cannot wait to see where her degree will take her!