A nursing student society formed at Conestoga, welcoming the inaugural cohort of college’s new standalone Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program.
Conestoga nursing students volunteered at a gala organized by Reception House Waterloo Region that was raising funds for essential services like housing, language training, and employment support to help refugees settle into the community.
The Conestoga Nursing Students’ Society (CONSS) will provide support and opportunities for nursing students to help them learn and connect with each other and the community throughout their time studying at Conestoga, said society president Naomi Ramos Perez.
“My hope is that both new and current nursing students will find a welcoming and supportive community within the society. I want them to feel empowered, encouraged and connected, seeing the society as a resource where they can build lasting relationships, gain valuable insights into the nursing profession and develop leadership skills,” Ramos Perez said.
“Society initiatives aim to create an environment that fosters collaboration and inclusivity, helping students thrive academically, personally and professionally.”
The new nursing program was developed following the Ontario government’s decision in 2020 to allow both public colleges and universities to offer a baccalaureate degree in nursing to increase opportunities for students to access high-quality education. Conestoga had previously delivered a BScN in Nursing in partnership with McMaster University.
Ramos Perez, who is in her fourth year, wanted to start the society to encourage and support new nursing students at Conestoga. McMaster has a nursing society, but being based at the Hamilton campus made it a challenge for Conestoga students to join activities.
“We founded the Conestoga Nursing Student Society out of recognition of the need for a stronger sense of community among nursing students. Nursing is an incredibly demanding journey and it’s essential to create a space where students could support one another and grow both personally and professionally,” she said.
Planned initiatives of the Conestoga society include the mentorship program in which students can sign up to be matched with a “Nubbie” (nursing upper year buddy. Nursing students are encouraged to join the society and its different committees, such as the community engagement committee, which provides meaningful volunteer opportunities.
Also planned is a professional development series, kicking off with a virtual series on resume building and interview skills to help students prepare for job opportunities including ones that will be offered after the first session.
“The goal is to build a community where every nursing student feels heard, valued and empowered, while also offering meaningful opportunities for engagement both inside and outside the classroom. This society is about fostering connections, promoting professional growth, and ensuring that every student feels they are part of something larger,” Ramos Perez said.
Nursing student Zaeema Fatima, in Level 2 of the McMaster-connected program, found joining the society opened her eyes to the warmth and support within the nursing community.
“I met incredible individuals who reminded me that nursing is so much more than textbooks and exams. It’s about translating knowledge into compassionate care in real-world settings. Being part of CONSS has deepened my understanding that nursing is not just a profession, but a way of life driven by a genuine passion to care for others.”
New nursing student Althea Rabano joined as a first-year representative because she loves being involved, and the society offers opportunities to participate in volunteering, meet more experienced nursing students, and be involved outside of the classroom.
“I strongly believe that college should be more than working towards a degree, but should provide lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the opportunity to learn new life skills. I know that CONSS will help me obtain that,” Rabano said. “CONSS is in its first year - just like me - and I am super excited to be part of the foundation of this new society.”
Nursing professor and a co-ordinator of the nursing bachelor’s degree Dianne Dal Bello is looking forward to working with the society’s executive team as they develop a platform of professionalism for the new nursing degree at Conestoga.
“This exciting initiative will provide a voice for the membership while enhancing student engagement and collaboration within the school community,” Dal Bello said.
The Conestoga Bachelor of Science - Nursing (Honours) degree prepares graduates to provide care that is relevant, connected and responsive. The program takes a contemporary approach to nursing education delivery, with courses and learning experiences designed to address the most pressing issues in health care today. Extensive hands-on clinical learning opportunities will provide students with strong foundations in nursing practice, across a variety of settings and client ages.
Conestoga’s School of Health & Life Sciences offers a range of credentials to assist individuals in achieving their goal of becoming a healthcare professional.