UM-Flint Initiatives for Nursing Diversity (UMFIND)
Background
In 2005, the University of Michigan-Flint School of Health Professions & Studies was awarded a grant from the Department of Health and Human Services; Health Resources and Services Administration. The grant entitled University of Michigan-Flint Initiatives for Nursing Diversity (UM-FIND) is designed to increase the level of diversity and cultural competence in Flint’s nursing workforce.
Selected participants for UM-FIND programming will receive an array of personal, professional, and academic enrichment services to facilitate their admission, progression, and enrollment to the BSN program. Activities at the middle school and high school levels will motivate disadvantaged/minority students to pursue a career in nursing, and equip them for successful application and enrollment in nursing programs. The following pre-college and college programming have been established to accomplish these goals.
Pre-College Programs
Future Nurses Club: A six week (per semester) after-school program in which UM-Flint nursing students and Nursing department faculty facilitate weekly information sessions with correlating hands on activities about various aspects of the nursing career.
M.A.S.S.I.V.E.: A four week summer program for 7th and 8th grade students designed to enhance students’ comprehension of basic science, math and reading skills, health careers, personal development and health promotion.
Future Nurses Institute: A four week summer program for 9th-11th grade students designed to increase student’s awareness of the nursing profession and enhance their ability to successfully compete for admission into professional nursing education programs. Selected participants will receive a stipend of $30.00 per day of participation.
Future Nurses Transitions Program: A three week summer program for high school graduates designed to improve skills necessary for success in nursing school. The program will provide instruction in science and reading ability, basic mathematics, writing, and grammar enrichment activities, personal enrichment exercises, and college preparation activities addressing the study skills required for success in college. Selected participants will receive a stipend of $35.00 per day of participation.
College Programs
Academic Enrichment Services:Tutoring and Supplemental Instruction: The BSN program requires a minimum grade point average of 2.75 for admission overall and in select prerequisite coursework. UM-Flint’s Student Development Center will offer individual tutoring, study skills sessions, and supplemental instruction.
Nurse Entrance Test (NET) Workshop: UM-Flint graduate and undergraduate students will facilitate a workshop to assist pre-nursing students in preparing for the NET. This workshop will be specifically designed for the pre nursing cohort students and be offered at least 2 times a year. All workshop participants will receive a copy of the NET study guide as an incentive.
Supplemental Advising/Application Counseling: The Nursing Advisor will provide supplemental assistance to pre-nursing cohort students regarding advising and the application process.
Summer Enrichment Programs: BSN cohort students will be required to participate in three summer enrichment programs offered just prior to the start of the Fall semester. Summer I program will focus on preparation for clinical coursework and the BSN program. Summer II program will focus on review of medical surgical principles and care of the adult with emphasis on HESI/NCLEX preparation. Summer III program will focus on review of psych, ob, and peds with emphasis on all areas of HESI/NCLEX preparation.
NCLEX preparation workshops: The Department of Nursing will develop and offer a series of workshops specifically addressing preparation for the NCLEX exam.
Financial Aid:
Stipends: BSN cohort students participating full time in cohort services will be eligible to receive stipends to support added expenses of the BSN program. Stipends will help alleviate the financial burdens that prevent minority/disadvantaged students from completing their BSN degree.
Where Can I Find Out More About UMFIND?
Complete a UM-FIND interest form by clicking here: https://secure2.umflint.edu/shps/UMFIND/student_interest_form.asp
You may also call KaNeesha Allen at (810) 237-6576 or email wiallen@umflint.edu
Student Highlights:
"I am a graduate of the Nursing program (Winter 08) and I have been a part of the UM-FIND program since it started in August 2005. Without the program's support the Nursing program would have been even harder. UM-FIND program helped to provide resources to students. I enjoyed going to the local high schools for the Nursing Career Fairs. The UM-FIND program has grown so much and has helped a lot of people (me being one) make their dream of becoming a nurse real."-Yashica
"The professors and my classmates have been wonderful in the Nursing program. I am glad that I was part of the mentoring program and UM-FIND. These programs not only helped me financially, but it was great to hear the encouraging words from time to time during this intense program." -Ashley, May 2008 BSN Graduate
"The University of Michigan-Flint tutors were responsible and educated young gentlemen and ladies who were very patient with the students. Tutoring improved my grades in geometry. - Terrence Dawson, 12th grade, SWA.This is a terrific summer program that was a true blessing, not only to me but to everyone. It helped us to look ahead in the future and open our eyes early in life before this big obstacle called “Life After High School” came. My experience throughout this summer helped mold my decisions about college, career, and most importantly life in general." - Britney Clarke, 12th, SWA
"My experience in the Summer Youth Volunteer Program has influenced my decision to become a nurse in many positive ways. It has taught me to be more compassionate and desiring to want to become a nurse. I am more focused on succeeding in this field. I will not let anyone stop me from going forward in my career in desiring to be a terrific nurse in the future." - Chana Barnes, 12th, Central