Avera Marshall internship program Helps build future rural nursing workforce
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Avera Marshall welcomed three nursing students this summer through its annual internship program, providing hands-on experience across multiple specialties while helping to build a future rural health care workforce.
Now in its ninth year, the internship has become a successful recruitment program for Avera Marshall, with seven former interns accepting nursing positions after graduation.
Interns Emily Schmiesing of Walnut Grove, Erin Tran of Manchester, Iowa, and Emily Coudron of Mankato will all begin their senior year of nursing school this fall after spending part of the summer learning alongside Avera Marshall nurses. Schmiesing attends the University of South Dakota in Vermillion while Tran and Coudron attend South Dakota State University in Brookings.
"It's important for us to invest in the next generation of rural health care professionals so our communities continue to have access to high-quality care. Programs like these are a great way to introduce future nurses to rural health care while building relationships that often continue after graduation," said Regional President and CEO Debbie Streier. "This program gives students the opportunity to experience the wide range of nursing careers available in a rural hospital while working alongside experienced caregivers who are passionate about mentoring future nurses. It's an investment in both students and the future of health care in our region."
During the internship, students rotate through a variety of departments including the medical/surgical unit, labor and delivery, emergency department, behavioral health, surgery, cancer center, clinic and long-term care. Students said the variety of experiences has broadened their perspectives while helping them identify career interests.
"I wasn’t sure what type of nursing I wanted to pursue after graduation, so this internship is a great way to experience different areas," Schmiesing said. "I got to be in the Women’s Center for three deliveries, and that was amazing. Now I’m spending time in the Cancer Institute. I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I have."
Students said they appreciated the welcoming environment and the willingness of nurses to involve them in meaningful learning opportunities.
"It feels like the nurses really want us here, and they want us to have a good learning experience. They are so willing to help and offer encouragement," Coudron said.