Meet an ASD BSN Student at Shenandoah
For Allison Frye ’23, the program has proved to be a perfect fit
Allison Frye ’23 didn’t have a “lightbulb” moment that led her to Shenandoah University’s Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Instead, Frye, whose first Bachelor of Science degree is in biological sciences from Virginia Tech, said she came to Shenandoah’s program after spending a year working as a patient care associate in a primary care office.
“I learned a lot in this role, including patient communication, different roles of an office, and the structure of health care,” she said, noting that in her first undergraduate degree she “loved biology, science and volunteering. . . and nursing is the wonderful mix of helping others while pursuing education in the science field.”
She said she found Shenandoah’s program, which is offered in both Winchester and Loudoun County, Virginia, to be attractive because of its locations, available transfer representatives, and an easy-to-navigate application. It also has transfer representatives who not only were available but also helped waive her application fee.
Frye, who is set to graduate from the 15-month program in December 2023, added that the program’s personable professors really make the program stand out for her. “They are always available to help you and they get to know you on an individual level.”
Upon graduation, Frye has a host of goals. She hopes to be chemotherapy certified within the first year of her nursing career, advance as a nurse and consider becoming a nurse practitioner, and live a life in which she can successfully balance work and family responsibilities.
She also has some advice for people considering an ASD program. “You have nothing to lose to apply. The program is fast-paced but manageable. They offer mentors, tutoring, and your individual adviser, who is a professor. Your peers are also your best resource for help.”
