Virtual Visits: Making the Most Out of Our Reality

Written by Laura Panozzo

Nurses have a natural ability to make connections with people so they can provide necessary physical and emotional care. It’s this deep desire for connection that most often brings individuals to nursing and carries them through their education and career. So how, in this virtual world that we find ourselves in, can we get the most out of what is available when in-person interaction is on hold?

While we have shifted to virtual events for the time being, we want to make sure that you still come away feeling the same warm connection and sense of belonging that you would feel if the event was on campus. We want to make sure you get the most out of your time with us and if there is anything you are left wondering, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are only a virtual call away!

Here are some things to keep in mind get the most out of virtual events:

Be present.

It’s easy to lose focus when you are more than likely sitting in a place full of distractions. Find a quiet room if possible or use headphones to cancel as much background noise as you can so you can focus on the event. Being present with what is in front of you will help you absorb information that can be beneficial to your decision making later on.

Participate!

Our virtual events always include some time to interact with presenters, current students, faculty, or even our Dean. Take the opportunity to jump in the chat and interact in the conversations, or start one yourself. Presenters and organizers may think they know what you want and need, but your questions and thoughts can take the event in a much better and more enriching direction when you use your voice!

Take notes.

Have a pad of paper and pen sitting next to you during the event. Jot down contact emails, social media handles, websites, whatever it may be for you to keep in contact long after the event is over. Think of this as collecting virtual business cards. If someone is sharing their contact information, they are open to you using it to create further dialogue. Take advantage!

Be picky.

You don’t need to sign up for every event. Pick the events that seem most impactful and beneficial to you and your journey. By being purposeful in your choices, you have a higher chance of focus and engagement. This translates to getting to know a school and program in a deeper way to make a more educated decision down the road. Being picky also means you have less of a chance of virtual fatigue!

Embrace the imperfect.

Chances are someone’s connection will be slow, someone will forget to unmute themselves, or someone’s child or pet may make an appearance in their personal zoom box. Live virtual events afford us the opportunity to actually see a more human side to a school or program. We believe in humility and embrace the unplanned interruptions as we navigate this virtual world because it so closely mirrors the unknown that future nurses will come to understand. We hope that you will come to value these happy mishaps as we do, and feel a small connection with us no matter where in the world you may be tuning in from.

Read More:

• Admissions Talks: What Does “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” Mean to Admissions?
• Your MSN (Entry Into Nursing) Application Needs Another Set of Eyes
• Admissions Talks on YouTube
• Is Healthcare Experience Vital for MSN (Entry Into Nursing) Applicants?
• The Ideal MSN (Entry Into Nursing) Applicant Has 1 Thing

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: LAURA PANOZZO

Laura Panozzo is the Assistant Director for MSN (Entry into Nursing) Recruitment at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. She can help you take the leap into nursing, contact her at 443-287-7430 or lpanozz1@jhu.edu.