When DNP student Janet Kubas began her studies at UofSC Nursing, she noticed no graduate nursing association. One of her professors suggested getting involved with the Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA) through the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

To connect with graduate nurses across the country, the GNSA has abundant resources for graduate nursing students. These include the Digital Innovators Program and holding national conferences which cover topics relevant to U.S health policy. They also host webinars on leadership development, salary negotiation, enhancing mentoring experiences, exploring the Doctor of Nursing Practice role, and many more. In addition, they offer scholarship opportunities for graduate and undergraduate nursing students.

"As the GNSA Liaison for the University of South Carolina, I am tasked with the increasing awareness and participation in this national organization that focuses on academic excellence," shares Kubas. 

Kubas feels it is essential as a student and a nurse to be involved with professional nursing associations because they provide a frame of reference outside the usual practice environment.

“Being a nurse requires life-long learning, and most professional nursing associations provide opportunities for continuing education. The AACN and GNSA provide opportunities to increase personal knowledge and leadership skills. Nurses are natural leaders in the performance of our role in delivering high-quality patient-centered care. We are leaders within the care team for patient care coordination. All nurses can obtain leadership development through national professional organization participation, especially GNSA and AACN,” says Kubas.