Are you a nursing student eager to gain real-world experience and jumpstart your career? If so, Baptist Health in Arkansas offers an exceptional Nursing Externship Program designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and hands-on patient care. With opportunities available across multiple locations, including Little Rock, BHRI, Extended Care, North Little Rock, Conway, Fort Smith, and Drew County, this externship provides invaluable training and mentorship that can help shape your future as a registered nurse.
Why Consider a Nursing Externship?
A nursing externship is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to build confidence, sharpen skills, and prepare for the transition from student to full-fledged nurse. At Baptist Health, our externship program immerses nursing students in a real clinical setting, allowing them to work directly with experienced registered nurses (RNs) while developing essential skills.
During this six-week program, externs work three 12-hour shifts per week, totaling 216 hours of hands-on experience. This structured approach ensures that students gain practical knowledge and exposure to the day-to-day responsibilities of a nurse while fostering professional development in a supportive environment.
Program Details & Requirements
To participate in the Baptist Health Nursing Externship Program, students must meet the following qualifications:
• Completed at least two semesters of an accredited nursing program, including medical-surgical (M/S) clinical rotations
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher (C or above)
• Possess an active CPR certification
• Submit two references from nursing instructors
• Provide a completed skills checklist
• Submit a copy of their academic transcript
• Write an essay on the topic: “Why I Want to Participate in the Baptist Health Extern Program”
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work closely with RNs, assisting with essential patient care tasks such as bathing, ambulation, meal assistance, and vital sign monitoring. Additionally, externs will gain invaluable interpersonal and communication skills that are crucial for a successful nursing career.
The Benefits of a Baptist Health Nursing Externship
1. Hands-On Experience with Expert Guidance
One of the biggest advantages of a nursing externship at Baptist Health is the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real hospital setting. Working alongside experienced nurses, externs learn to manage patient care effectively while developing critical thinking skills that are essential for professional success.
Sierra Cassidy, a former extern at Baptist Health, shares her experience: “Being given the opportunity to work alongside an experienced nurse, ask all my questions, and especially get to practice my skills, all contributed to my growth and confidence as a nurse. Being in an active role at the bedside was also super important to me, and my nurse really helped foster this as well.”
2. Smooth Transition from Student to RN
Many nursing graduates find the transition from student to full-time nurse challenging. However, an externship helps bridge this gap by allowing students to gradually adjust to the responsibilities of a registered nurse. By gaining firsthand experience in patient care, nursing students build the competence and confidence needed to succeed in their future careers.
3. Networking and Mentorship Opportunities
The externship program at Baptist Health provides students with access to a network of healthcare professionals, mentors, and potential future colleagues. These connections can be invaluable when applying for nursing positions post-graduation, as many externs go on to secure full-time roles within the Baptist Health system.
4. Competitive Compensation and Professional Development
Not only does this program provide exceptional learning opportunities, but it is also a paid externship. Externs can earn while they learn, making this an attractive option for students looking to gain experience while offsetting the costs of their education. Additionally, externs receive training in organizational, verbal, and written communication skills—qualities that are highly valued in the nursing profession.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in becoming a part of the Baptist Health Nursing Externship Program, follow these steps:
1. Complete Your Application – Ensure all required documents, including transcripts, CPR certification, skills checklist, and references, are submitted before the deadline.
2. Write a Compelling Essay – Take the time to thoughtfully express your passion for nursing and explain why you want to be a part of the program.
3. Verify Your Availability – The externship program runs for six weeks, beginning on either June 9th or June 16th. Be prepared to commit to three 12-hour shifts per week.
4. Submit Your Materials – Applications should be completed promptly to secure your spot in this competitive program.
Take the First Step Toward Your Nursing Career
The Baptist Health Nursing Externship Program is an outstanding opportunity for nursing students to gain real-world experience, enhance their skills, and build a strong professional network. Whether you aspire to work in acute care, rehabilitation, or extended care, this program provides the foundation you need to succeed in your nursing journey.
Are you ready to take the next step? Apply today and jumpstart your nursing career at Baptist Health!
