The Auburn University School of Nursing is full of students aspiring to enter the medical field. Last semester, nursing students who took "Professional Nursing Concepts I" were required to write a paper that could potentially educate the Auburn community on serious medical subjects. Of these students, 12 were chosen to have their papers published in The Auburn Villager throughout 2009.

The top 12 papers were selected carefully. The students did not know who would be reviewing their papers, and the graders did not know whose paper they were reviewing.

Caitlin Decamillis, one of the nursing students who had their paper chosen for publication, is a junior. Her essay is on "Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month" (May). This covers general information about asthma and allergies, prevention and medications.

Interestingly enough, Caitlin came to Auburn wanting to be a journalist.

“I was surprised but honored that my paper was chosen to be published. It’s kind of funny because I came to Auburn as a journalism major,” says Decamillis. “I love to write, and it means a lot to me to be recognized because it is combining two things I’m very passionate about,” says Decamillis.

Although the nursing students did not get any hands-on experience in writing these essays, they were exposed to the importance of patient teaching. They also gained experience in getting their medical message across to the general public.

Each student in the class was assigned a topic for their essay by random. The topics corresponded with months of the year, such as January being "National Glaucoma Awareness Month." One paper was chosen on each topic, and it will be published during its relevant time. For example, Decamillis’ essay on asthma and allergies will come out just as you start to notice spring-time sneezing.

Kimberly Raines, a clinical instructor working for Auburn University, said that this assignment gave students needed experience in publication.

“It’s a pretty powerful thing the first time someone sees their name in print,” says Raines.

Although Decamillis is still fond of writing, she said she loves been able to physically help people.

“I change my major from journalism to nursing after my first semester freshman year,” says Decamillis. I just felt like wanted to do something with my life that involved me directly helping people. As opposed to only writing. I guess I like the personal face to face aspect of nursing.”

She is currently doing her clinical studies at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. She also does some pediatric clinical studies at Baptist South Medical Center in Montgomery. In the future, Decamillis hopes to attend graduate school and, ultimately, work as a nurse anesthetist.

For more information on the Auburn University School of Nursing visit their website. Here you can do everything from applying to viewing upcoming events.



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