Meet Eli

Choosing the right path in college is rarely a straight line, it often takes guidance, support, and a willingness to explore different opportunities. For many students at Aultman College, the Associate of Science in Health Sciences (ASHS) program provides that important first step. We spoke with Eli, a student who began his journey in ASHS before transitioning into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. He shares how the program shaped his path, what the transition process was like, and why Aultman College felt like the perfect fit for his education and future in nursing.

Why did you choose to go into ASHS to start? 

I knew I wanted to get into nursing. My GPA was just shy of meeting direct admission into the program. I talked with my admission advisor and she let me know that I could take the same gen ed classes in the fall and be able to start nursing in the spring.    

How did ASHS shape your decision to then go into nursing? 

I found it to be very helpful. I was with other nursing students in my ASHS courses and was able to build friendships. It was a seamless transition for me to program change over.  

What was your experience like in ASHS, and how did you transfer to BSN? 

It was nice that I was able to work towards my end goal of being a nurse. At the end of fall semester my GPA qualified me to program transfer into the BSN program. I was right on track with my other peers that were already in.  

How easy was that process and why?  

My advisor knew when I came into the college I wanted to go into nursing. The classes that I was advised to take were the same classes I would have been taking anyway. When I met in the fall to schedule classes for spring, I scheduled for gen ed classes. I added on my nursing classes once my GPA was finalized for fall.  

What did you learn through the transferring process? 

How helpful and supportive everyone is here at the college. I am able to have questions answered quickly and accurately.  

Why nursing? What does nursing mean to you specifically?  

I've grown up around nursing. My mom is a nurse so I would listen to her stories. I had the chance to Camp Scrubs at Aultman College for 2 years when I was in middle school. It was a great experience to see all the different areas of healthcare and I just felt like nursing was the best option for me.  

Is nursing what you have always wanted to do? 

I wanted to be a gamer! Nursing was a close second, and gaming was never an option my mom would have approved or supported so here I am.    

Why did you choose Aultman College? Be as detailed as possible, is there a special story you have? 

There are several reasons why I chose Aultman College. I was comfortable here. I knew the college layout, had been to events prior and attended camp scrubs as a middle school student. It just fit.    

Is there anything else that you would want to share about your experience at Aultman College to share with high school students looking to choose a college? 

You need to allow yourself the option to explore. I wanted to go into healthcare. Aultman College has a great reputation in healthcare education!