Title : An active learning strategy to strengthen professional identity and career readiness in nursing students
Abstract:
Preparing nursing students for the transition from academic programs to professional practice requires intentional development of career readiness competencies. Faculty in a third-level Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program identified gaps among students approaching graduation, including limited experience with professional interviews, résumé development, and professional communication. These challenges highlighted the need for structured educational interventions that strengthen professional identity formation and improve students'readiness for workforce entry. To address this need, a Professional Identity Mock Interview Day was developed as an evidence-based active learning initiative grounded in the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) career readiness competencies of communication, professionalism, and career and self-development. Students were required to identify a relevant nursing job posting and prepare a tailored résumé and cover letter. Prior to the event, students participated in résumé review sessions supported by the university Career Center. During the mock interview event, students engaged in structured interviews conducted by local healthcare leaders and university faculty outside the nursing discipline, providing a diverse and authentic professional panel. Standardized interview questions and a rubric based evaluation tool guided feedback on communication, preparedness, and professionalism. Post-event survey results demonstrated significant improvements in student confidence, communication, and perceived readiness for professional interviews. The majority of students reported that the experience reduced anxiety associated with interviewing and improved their understanding of employer expectations. Interview panel members also reported high satisfaction with the activity and emphasized its value in preparing nursing graduates for workforce entry. This initiative demonstrates how active learning and community-engaged partnerships can strengthen professional identity development and career readiness in nursing education. While implemented within an undergraduate nursing program, the framework is transferable across health professions and academic disciplines seeking to better prepare students for successful transition into the healthcare workforce.
