Bringing Cheer to Nursing

Nathan Hall, a senior nursing student at the University of South Carolina, is set to graduate this December. Beyond his academic achievements, Nathan has also been a dedicated cheerleader for the South Carolina Gamecocks, showcasing his commitment to both his studies and athleticism.

Nathan’s journey into health care began with a simple realization: "I always knew I wanted to help people." This passion led him to pursue nursing, where he could combine his love for service with his interest in science. His internship experiences have provided him with hands-on skills that will undoubtedly enhance his future nursing practice. 

As a cheerleader, Nathan has had to juggle practices, game appearances, and his academic responsibilities. "Cheer is my happy place," he shares, emphasizing the joy and friendship he finds in his team. However, balancing these commitments has required strategic planning. “At the very beginning of the semester, I go through my syllabus and write down everything I have to do,” he explains. “Then I add in practice times, appearances, and football games. It’s a strict schedule that I follow, and it has worked really well for me.”

For those looking to engage in extracurricular activities while pursuing a nursing degree, Nathan advises, “You’ll have to give up some things – friends might want to hang out, but you need to prioritize school and cheer. That said, it’s essential to make time for friends to take a break from studying.” He also emphasizes the importance of adapting study habits as one progresses through the nursing program. “The biggest shift for me was moving from lower division to upper division. It’s about applying what you’ve learned. Studying with friends and quizzing each other was really helpful, and utilizing resources like tutoring and SI sessions made a difference.” 

Being a student-athlete has significantly shaped Nathan’s approach to time management and prioritization. “I didn’t have to study much in high school, but being an athlete in a rigorous nursing program has taught me how to manage my priorities effectively,” he reflects. As he prepares to transition into his nursing career, Nathan believes these skills will be invaluable. “The ability to prioritize is crucial in nursing. You need to be able to handle multiple tasks and make quick decisions while providing the best care for your patients.”

Next Steps

With graduation on the horizon, Nathan Hall is excited about the future. He plans to bring his passion for helping others, along with the discipline and resilience he developed as a student-athlete, into his nursing career. As he embarks on this new chapter, Nathan remains a shining example of how hard work, dedication, and a love for community can lead to success.

Nathan is in the Critical Care Nurse Residency Program at Lexington Medical Center and has matched with the Medical ICU.