Dear Future Nurse,
I was at Cooper University Hospital last week, catching up with some of the BAYADA Scholars as they settled into their lab and clinical rotations. I asked the students why they chose the BAYADA Scholars Track, and while I heard a variety of reasons, there was one thing almost every student said: Cooper.
Cooper was recently named one of America’s Best Employers for Health Care Professionals (again) and honestly, it doesn’t surprise me. Cooper gets the big things right—investing in their people, creating a safe and inclusive workplace, leading with innovation—and just as importantly, they don't overlook the little things. When you walk through Cooper, you feel something special. From the warm welcome given to visitors to the way staff interact with one another, there’s an undeniable positive energy. As a nurse, I’ve been in many healthcare settings, and that feeling is not as familiar as one would hope.
The same sentiment is reflected in the feedback we receive from students. Every week, we collect clinical surveys as part of our commitment to continuous improvement, and we read every word. Students consistently praise the Cooper nurses for their warmth, investment in teaching, and their desire for students to succeed. Many of us remember at least one clinical nurse who didn’t want students around, but just the opposite is true here. The BAYADA Scholars describe a culture of support and encouragement that makes all the difference. I feel at ease knowing our students are in the capable yet gentle hands of Cooper nurses.
It’s hard to express in words just how incredible Cooper is. That’s why we invite prospective students to see it for themselves. Our next in-person tour at Cooper is on October 14—and other dates are added regularly. We’d love for you to experience Cooper firsthand.
Until next time,
Karina T., BSN, RN, PHN