S.O.S. (STUDENTS' OPTIMAL SUCCESS): A MODEL FOR INSTITUTIONAL ACTION TO SUPPORT MINORITY NURSING STUDENTS

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Higher Education
• Minority Student Success

Background:

• The increasing diversity in the United States necessitates higher education programs that ensure success across all cultural groups.
• Addressing the success of minority students in higher education is a critical contemporary issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the perceptions of academic success among current nursing students in two entry-level registered nursing (RN) programs.
• To develop a theoretical model aimed at enhancing the success of minority students in nursing education.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 31 students from two urban Midwestern RN programs (baccalaureate and associate).
• Data collected via two open-ended questions focusing on factors contributing to success and suggestions for improving the educational experience.

Main Results:

• Identified key success factors: institutional commitment, clear communication of expectations, academic support, social support, financial support, feedback, and student involvement.
• These elements were found to be critical for students' optimal academic achievement in nursing programs.

Conclusions:

• The study's findings led to the development of a theoretical model.
• This model provides a framework to enhance the success of minority nursing students in higher education.