College students today are given access to an unprecedented number of choices when choosing a potential career path. Both online and brick and mortar institutions offer a plethora of resources in an effort to help them make informed decisions about future goals and aspirations. In spite of this, many students struggle to narrow down what they would like to pursue after receiving a degree. One program at Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions is helping prospective graduates through an innovative approach.

 

The Macy Undergraduate Leadership Fellows Program (MULFP) instills in students from a variety of majors a greater understanding of how to be an effective leader in today's competitive health industry. Each student is paired with a mentor to help guide them through this nine month process. After a change in majors, one student hopes to make the most of his MULFP experience.

 

Ervin-John Bautista found himself at Drexel after stops at both Temple University and Western Connecticut State College. After considering a future in the restaurant and hospitality industry, E.J. began to realize where his true passion lies.

 

"I knew I wanted to be a nurse when I began finding my strength in faith. I realized that I wanted to help people and make a difference in their lives through health care."

 

E.J. recalls how he came to be a part of MULFP. "One of my professors recommended me for the program. I had never been recommended for anything like that in the past, so I really took it to heart, and it has been beyond expectations," E.J. said. "It's still early in the program but so far it has been great interacting with other students and learning from my mentor."

 

While taking part in MULFP, mentors and mentees are tasked with a number of different projects. "One of our projects is to come up with a list of strengths and weaknesses. Then we are to come up with a plan for how to improve our weaknesses and emphasize our strengths."

 

E.J. recently finished his only co-op at the Hospital of Philadelphia where he worked as a Certified Nurse Assistant, but continues to work two shifts each week part time. He has enjoyed his experience while on co-op and as a part of MULFP.

 

"My immediate goal is to finish school. I can really see the light at the end of the tunnel. As for my plans after graduation, I am open to all possibilities. I really liked my co-op experience, but I've learned to be flexible. The best experiences come when you don't constrain yourself to one thing in particular."

 

To learn more about MULFP, visit our site or contact Roberta Waite, EdD.