Nursing First: Promoting Academic and Professional Success Through a Seamless Transition Program for Registered Nurses to Baccalaureate Students

The Nursing First Program was established to provide students in an associate of science in nursing program at a downstate New York community college a seamless transition into the registered nurse to baccalaureate program of a nearby university while promoting academic performance and professional excellence. Selected students attend mandatory seminars designed to provide academic support and a sense of camaraderie, with the aim of ensuring success in both programs. Initial outcomes indicate that the program inspired participants to reach their highest potential, academically and professionally. Nursing First scholars have excelled as newly employed registered nurses and as students in the university program.