Academic X’cellence: Sharing stories from our inspiring StFX community
It should come as no surprise to anyone familiar with StFX that our campus is filled with highly engaged students, educators, researchers, and leaders. Academic X’cellence shines a spotlight on members of our educational community to find out more about their unique experiences—both inside and outside of the classroom. (To see the full series, please click HERE.)
Here we meet Stella Nette of Hubbards, NS, a fourth year honours nursing student. This past summer, Stella received an Irving Oil Mentorship Research Award and through her honours project is looking to make a difference in health care in rural Nova Scotia. Stella has been involved in volunteer and campus activities and after graduation is looking forward to earning her Registered Nurse license and beginning her career in health care with a long-term goal of becoming a family doctor.
Stella Nette: Studying the unique challenges faced by nursing students in rural programs.
Tell us about some of your highlights at StFX.
One of the biggest highlights for me was receiving the Irving Oil Mentorship Research Award for my honours project, titled “Identifying Student Learning Challenges and Potential Solutions in Nursing Education Delivery in Rural Nova Scotia.” Receiving this funding was such an honour and allowed me to fully dive into my research while managing the heavy workload of nursing school. My study focuses on the unique challenges faced by nursing students in rural programs, like StFX’s, and explores potential ways to make these programs even more supportive. I’m excited to continue working on my thesis and to share findings that I hope can ultimately strengthen rural healthcare.
Do you feel the research impacted your academic studies?
Working on this project changed my perspective and my approach to learning in the classroom. It taught me the vitality of seeking many stories and perspectives when critically analyzing and gaining understanding about a topic.
What drew you to nursing?
Nursing drew me in because it combined my fascination with science and my passion for providing hands-on care to improve the health and well-being of the communities I live in.
Have you had a favorite class?
It’s hard to pick a single favorite class over these four years, but I have immense respect for all my nursing professors and the real-world insights they share about the profession. My honours supervisors, Dr. Heather Helpard and Dr. Janet Purvis, have taught me some of the most memorable classes, like Pathophysiology and Physical Health II. These courses fed my curiosity about the processes behind acute and chronic illnesses and formed the building blocks of my nursing judgement. Dr. Purvis and Dr. Helpard have also been incredibly supportive throughout my honours research, for which I’m so grateful.
Do you have a path in mind for after StFX?
After I graduate, I plan to earn my Registered Nurse license and launch my career in healthcare, with my long-term goal being to attend medical school and become a family doctor.
Is there an opportunity that stands out for you at StFX?
StFX has also offered me so many ways to get involved beyond academics. I’ve loved volunteering and taking part in campus activities, some including intramural volleyball, soccer, and club track and field, Motion Ball of Sport, as well as the Nursing Curriculum Committee. I’ve made unforgettable memories, built lifelong friendships, and met so many people who’ve enriched my experience. Going to a small school has given me the chance to really get to know my classmates, and I wouldn’t trade that sense of community for anything.
Would you have advice for a first year student?
My advice is simple: put yourself out there! Join activities and groups that fit your interests—there’s truly something for everyone. Find your ideal study space, whether it’s in the library, a cozy coffee shop, with friends, or at your own desk. Also, take the time to celebrate your accomplishments, enjoy events like Homecoming, The Nursing Ball, holiday celebrations, and of course X-Ring. And above all, prioritize your mental and physical health: get outside, exercise, eat well, and don’t forget those study snacks!
