Madison Herriman

My mom attended Penn College for a short period of time and my stepfather graduated from Penn College, too. So I've always known about it. During high school, I started to research nursing programs and Penn College was among some of the top programs in the state.

I've always loved helping others and spreading kindness to those who need it. I went to the hospital frequently as a child and always had the most amazing experiences with the nurses who took care of me. I have idolized the role nurses play in healthcare. My love for science and helping others were huge driving factors in my choice in the nursing field.

Being able to learn hands on is an extremely valuable experience as a nursing major. During my third semester I was introduced to the nursing lab where we learn and perform skills with guidance from instructors. It's been pivotal in my education.

It's so difficult to name just one professor because they are all so amazing. Every professor I've had has wanted nothing but the best for their students and pushed us to work harder and achieve greater. Mrs. Habalar has helped me tremendously so far in my college career. She expresses so much kindness and understanding while educating her students. She is one of the reasons I have enjoyed nursing school so much.

After I graduated high school I became a Nursing Assistant at Geisinger Medical Center. Knowing that I wanted to become a nurse, I decided to gain as much experience as I could. I've worked beside nurses, provided patient care, and viewed procedures and skills that I've now learned to perform in nursing school. This exposure to the health field has provided background to the education I am receiving at Penn College. It's helped me understand and grasp what I'm learning in class.

I have played softball for 14 years, including tee-ball, travel softball, high school, and now college. I have always loved the competitiveness of the game and the drive it takes to succeed. It's such a mental game that takes so much, but the more you put in, the more success you'll get out. I've also met some of my greatest friends while playing the sport.

My entire sophomore season as a Wildcat was extremely memorable. I became so much closer with my teammates and got to witness program history being made. Winning the ECAC Championship was a huge win for our team. Unfortunately, I was injured and could not play, but knowing that every effort we made throughout the season led to that moment was indescribable. We work so hard every inning of every season.  I'm so proud of the outcomes we produce as a team.

Coach Stackhouse, or Stack as we call her, has been a role model for me. I look up to her and respect her immensely. She cares about her players and the success of the team and she has an undeniable love for the game. My teammates have helped me love playing softball even more. There have been points in my life where I met setbacks and contemplated continuing, but seeing my teammates succeed and thrive has pushed me to be a better player, teammate, and friend for them.

I can't imagine myself anywhere other than Penn College. All of my professors have influenced my ability to learn and succeed in the nursing program. They truly want the best for their students. The hands-on aspect has been extremely important for me personally and as a nursing student. I enjoy the atmosphere of the campus and my classmates, who are nothing but positive in our journey together.