They are diverse, although only about 10 percent are men, but they are of all ages and cultures. What they have in common is that they are eager to enter hospitals and other clinical settings and learn what nursing is actually like.

It is important to point out the significant challenges that face nursing schools today. Recruiting and retaining qualified clinical faculty are the greatest challenges of deans and directors.

Not unlike the practice side, nursing educators are forced to compete with other programs for students and resources, as the field demands that more nurses be educated.

Many schools have trouble accessing enough clinical sites to ensure rich and stimulating learning experiences for their students.

Remember, these students are likely to be our co-workers one day. Unlike the past, students have far more experience in non-hospital clinical settings. If we want students to build a strong foundation for their career with inpatient clinical experience, let’s make sure they can see the compelling value of returning to the hospital environment after they graduate.

Consider your efforts now as an investment. These students are impressionable: What we and their faculty tell them about nursing is important to how their attitudes and opinions are shaped. Let them know you feel privileged to be a nurse and would make the choice again.

Granted, it is hard work; emotionally, physically, and intellectually demanding. But we love it, don’t we?