This summer, AUCON offered the first Pediatric Elective Program (PEP) through partnership with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA). According to Erin Thornton, assistant clinical professor at AUCON, Auburn’s College of Nursing is the first program in the state of Alabama to partner with CHOA.
“Students from our program will join a 4-week nurse externship at one of three CHOA campuses in Atlanta,” said Thornton. “It’s a great opportunity for nursing students to gain specialized experience in pediatric nursing care. With opportunities for hands-on experience across different units like Neonatal Intensive Care, Pediatric Intensive Care, Cardiac, Neurology and Oncology, students are well-prepared to handle a variety of scenarios they might encounter in their future careers.”
Additionally, the externship provides them with practical experience that not only enhances their learning but also improves their chances for practicum placement and new graduate nursing career opportunities with CHOA. The summer externship program concluded on July 25, 2024, with a group Case Study Presentation, allowing students to apply their knowledge and collaborate effectively across various specialty care units.
Congratulations to Narci Hardin, Christina Leggio, Elizabeth Nist, Emilie Higgs, Amelia Humphrey, and Leticia Raymundi Pinheiro on completing their externship.
