bachelor of science in nursing

An alumna's journey from 911�� nursing to NIH clinical research

Heather Carroll — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 18:34:10 +0000

An alumna's journey from 911�� nursing to NIH clinical research Heather Carroll Mon, 10/12/2026 - 14:34

Nursing wasn’t part of Nyah Collier’s original plan when she arrived at 911��.

Photo provided

She started as an international relations major before switching to nursing at the suggestion of her father, who was a nurse himself. Once there, her interests kept expanding. Microbiology introduced her to infectious disease, epidemiology drew her to public health, and clinical training showed her how much she valued caring for patients. Collier graduated from 911�� in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a minor in public health.

Today, those interests all merge in her work as a clinical research nurse at the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Collier, who later earned a master of public health in epidemiology from Drexel University, helps manage research protocols, recruit and care for study participants, ensure regulatory compliance, and collect clinical data. She also picks up shifts as a nurse at an urgent care facility to maintain her clinical skills.

We spoke with Collier about her 911�� journey and how it impacted her career.

How do you use what you learned in the BSN program in your current job with NIAID?

My BSN provided the foundational knowledge that I continue to draw on every day in my current role as a clinical research nurse at the NIH/NIAID. Nursing school introduced me to the principles of patient care, disease processes, evidence-based practice, and the clinical considerations that guide how nurses care for patients. While much of my critical thinking and clinical judgment developed through hands-on experience in my first nursing role, my BSN gave me the framework to build those skills and was the first step in shaping who I am as a nurse today. That foundation continues to inform how I approach research participants, understand clinical information, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and contribute a nursing perspective to infectious disease research.

When did you realize you were interested in public health and infectious diseases?

There were a few pivotal moments. The first was taking microbiology as a pre-nursing major. I discovered my love for learning about infectious diseases and how they affect populations, and I especially thrived in the lab.

Before entering the nursing program, I had a free semester and decided to pursue a public health minor. That introduced me to epidemiology, and I realized this was what I wanted to do. Learning about treatments, biostatistics, and neglected tropical diseases piqued my interest further. Later, community health clinicals exposed me to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), geriatric adult day centers, food safety and inspection, and environmental public health.

You said you weren’t always sure about nursing. What changed?

Photo provided

Throughout nursing school, I sometimes questioned whether I’d chosen the right path. It was challenging, and there were certainly clinical days I dreaded.

It wasn’t until my senior-year preceptorship that something clicked. For 14 weeks, I worked closely with a nurse who trusted me with increasing responsibilities and gave me the opportunity to experience what it truly felt like to work as a nurse. I discovered that caring for patients came naturally to me and developed confidence in my ability to become a great nurse.

Nursing showed me how much I valued caring for people, while microbiology and epidemiology showed me how deeply I wanted to understand the diseases affecting them. My career today has allowed me to bring those interests together.

What has stayed with you most from your 911�� education?

911�� gave me the freedom to explore and remain curious, from learning in the microbiology lab to assisting at clinical sites. The nursing program taught me to think critically, become comfortable with being uncomfortable, and seek out current evidence-based practices.

Through rotations in pediatrics, behavioral health, correctional health, and community settings, I learned to work with different populations and understand how health care needs vary. That experience has served me throughout my career across hospitals, homeless shelters, a state health department, outpatient care, and research.

Although I haven’t worked in traditional bedside nursing in nearly a decade, the clinical judgment, adaptability, and foundational knowledge I developed are skills I continue to rely on daily.

Why does public health matter to you now?

What I value most about the field is its ability to be proactive. We can prevent disease before it occurs, identify emerging threats, educate and advocate for communities, and use evidence to improve health on a much larger scale.

To me, being in public health means not only responding to the challenges we face today, but helping prepare communities for the challenges we have yet to encounter.

Key Takeaways

Nyah Collier, BSN ’15, supports infectious disease studies as a clinical research nurse at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
911��’s nursing program and public health minor helped her discover an interest in epidemiology and prepare for a career combining nursing and research.

Learn more about the College of Public Health

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College of Public Health

National Institutes of Health

School of Nursing offers its first full scholarship thanks to generous donor support

Taylor Thomas — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:54:21 +0000

School of Nursing offers its first full scholarship thanks to generous donor support Taylor Thomas Mon, 04/20/2026 - 11:54

The support of donors has life-changing impacts for 911�� students. An incredible show of generosity by an anonymous donor will provide full scholarship support for an undergraduate student enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in the College of Public Health’s School of Nursing. The Dr. Barry and Velma Berkey Endowed Scholarship will cover tuition for an entire academic year. This is the first full scholarship at the College of Public Health.

“We are profoundly grateful for the generosity of our donors, whose support has transformative effects on the lives of our students. This extraordinary gift will enable deserving Bachelor of Science in Nursing students to pursue their education without the burden of tuition,” said Dean Melissa Perry. “Such acts of kindness and commitment to education not only honor the legacy of Dr. Barry and Velma Berkey but also inspire our students to strive for excellence and make a meaningful impact in the field of public health and beyond. To our donors, thank you for believing in the power of education and for investing in the future leaders of health care.”

The scholarship was established to honor the late Barry Berkey and his wife, Velma Berkey. Berkey was a well-known psychiatrist, author, and the first clinical director of the Northern Virginia Mental Health Institute before he began his long-standing private practice. The first scholarship will be awarded in the fall 2026 semester to a full-time, in-state student who demonstrates high academic performance (minimum 3.5 GPA) and financial need.

The college extends thanks to all our generous donors.

Learn more about how you can give to the College of Public Health at 911��.

In This Story

Melissa J. Perry, Sc.D., MHS, MBA

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Mason Now: Power the Possible

Students

Student nurses converge for an interdisciplinary research conference organized by 911�� students

Taylor Thomas — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 13:59:11 +0000

Student nurses converge for an interdisciplinary research conference organized by 911�� students Taylor Thomas Wed, 06/04/2025 - 09:59

In This Story

Karen Trister Grace, PhD, MSN, CNM, FACNM

Tara Altay, a PhD student in 911��’s School of Nursing, noticed an unfortunate conference trend: a decrease in attendance and an increase in price. Disheartened but refusing to remain passive, Altay leveraged her role as treasurer of the 911�� Graduate Nursing Organization (GNO) to combat this observation becoming the norm. Refusing to see knowledge and network become inaccessible to fellow students and nursing professionals, the GNO, in partnership with 911�� Nurses for Sexual and Reproductive Health (NSRH), organized a D.C.-area interdisciplinary student nursing research conference.

Tara Altay. Photo provided

“The main motivation was to create an affordable, in this case free, student research conference inclusive of all nursing degree programs (ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD),” Altay said. "One of the most fun parts of professional conferences is the connections made and side conversations with peers. We wanted to create that opportunity for students here and all students around D.C., Maryland, and Virginia."

Altay also added that they also wanted to provide doctoral students with a supportive space to practice presenting their research—one where peers fostered meaningful discussions that enriched and strengthened their work.

The 67 student participants who registered for the conference came from the University of Maryland, Shenandoah University, University of Virginia, George Washington University, Johns Hopkins University, and Virginia Commonwealth University.

“This conference was a great networking opportunity, as well as a chance to learn what other doctoral students are doing during their final year project and what they plan to do with their degree afterwards,” said Kathryn Oliver, an attendee and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) student.

As a self-described young, aspiring health care professional of color, Ka'Lise Benson, a direct-entry Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) student who is a University Scholar in the Honors College, was thrilled to engage with those with similar aspirations. “I left feeling so grateful and so encouraged. I felt that the conference, having placed me in a space full of like-minded individuals, confirmed the call I already felt so led to answer,” she said.

Meghan Stough presenting her research on opioid use disorder interventions. Photo by Rene Ayala

The conference featured doctoral research in both poster and podium presentations, offering bachelor’s and master's-level students the opportunity to observe the trajectory of their future careers. Meghan Stough, another DNP-FNP student, was one of 18 student presenters. She utilized the conference to share her DNP project on evidence-based interventions to expand access to medications for opioid use disorder in the pre-hospital setting.

“The conference allowed me to practice translating complex clinical work into a concise, accessible format—an essential skill in nursing leadership and advocacy. Presenting and receiving feedback enhanced my confidence in scholarly communication and solidified my role as a nurse leader committed to knowledge dissemination,” Stough said.

Community practitioners were invited to share their field experiences and the innovative ways they apply their nursing degrees to serve diverse populations beyond hospital and primary care settings, including keynote speaker Terri-Ann Thompson from Ibis Reproductive Health, who spoke about her work on reproductive justice. Thompson was joined by four nurse practitioners as co-panelists in breakout sessions. Additionally, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Women and Gender Studies department adapted their Intersectionality 101 program into a nurse-specific presentation and discussion panel for attendees in support of the conference’s theme, “Equity.”

“I'm so proud of our student chapter members for organizing this impressive event. It was inspiring to spend the day among such motivated students, and I hope this is just the start of an ongoing tradition at 911��,” said Karen Trister-Grace, assistant professor in the School of Nursing and faculty advisor for NSRH.

Attendees from across the Washington, D.C.-area gather for 911�� student-led nursing conference. Photo by Rene Ayala

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Master of Science in Nursing

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Bringing a Veteran’s Global Perspective to Nursing

Taylor Thomas — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 16:47:40 +0000

Bringing a Veteran’s Global Perspective to Nursing Taylor Thomas Fri, 11/08/2024 - 11:47

The School of Nursing here at 911�� is #1 in Virginia for veterans for a reason. Who better to attest to this than students who are veterans and pursuing their nursing degree?

Veteran Frankie Farmakis is pursuing his BSN at 911�� after 30 years in the Marine Corps. Learn why.

To all our veterans, thank you for your service.

During his 30 years of military service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Frankie Farmakis witnessed the differences across international health care systems and was exposed to cultural contexts across the globe. In this next chapter of his career, Farmakis applies these experiences to the field of nursing.

“My service brought immense internal and external gratification. There are many similarities to the U.S. health system across the world and also pieces I think would be beneficial to incorporate [into how we do things]. A major example is ensuring people have access to long-term care and don’t only seek care when their health is in serious decline,” Farmakis said.

Farmakis says 911�� is excellent at opening doors for veterans to attain higher education. “911�� is undoubtedly veteran-friendly. They have the process down. You talk to real people well-versed in veteran needs and how to apply military benefits in a streamlined manner,” Farmakis said. “This is where to go to make your life easier.”

He entrusted the 911�� School of Nursing to nurture this journey and is currently a student in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Veterans Co-enrollment (VCE) program. Students complete a BSN degree online while simultaneously enrolled in an Associates of Applied Science nursing degree (AAS Nursing) program at a partner community college.

After earning his BSN, Farmakis intends to specialize in medical-surgical (med-surg) or emergency department (ED) nursing.

“I became interested in med-surg and ED nursing during my clinical rotations. I’ve been in chaotic environments, which I feel will lend well to handling the stress that comes with these specialties,” said Farmakis.

He is also eager to empower patients to continue their care once they are no longer under his. “Relationship building with patients is crucial positive outcomes. Engaging patients increases their desire to participate in continuity of care,” he said.

Learn more about the Veterans Co-enrollment (VCE) program.

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bachelor of science in nursing

This Mason Nurse makes an impact one patient at a time

Mary Cunningham — Tue, 02 May 2023 19:41:39 +0000

This Mason Nurse makes an impact one patient at a time Mary Cunningham Tue, 05/02/2023 - 15:41

From the MAP Clinics to virtual reality training and the Student Nursing Association, Bachelor of Nursing student James Kim graduates prepared to be a great nurse.

James Kim with children he met on a mission trip

The next Mason Nurse is ready for the challenge. James Kim will graduate in May 2023 with his Bachelor of Nursing, ready to pass his board certifications, and begin his job in the adult observational unit at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus. In addition to his motivation, excitement, and preparation, he credits his experiences in Mason’s nursing program for preparing him to reach his goals as a nurse. Kim wants to help underserved communities by providing the best standard of care and supporting patients as individuals.

“Growing up I always loved helping people and the best profession that allows this, in my opinion, is nursing,” said Kim. “During my time in the program, I was able to directly and positively care for individuals, which made me realize the benefits and impact that I could have on my community one person at a time.”

Hands-on experience is a cornerstone to a Mason Nurse’s education to help improve and inform their practice. Students work with the culturally diverse patient population in the northern Virginia area, which provides them with the necessary skills to deliver health care to underserved populations.

“Mason’s Nursing program has access to local hospitals and clinics that give us privileges to gain hands-on experience with actual patients instead of manikins. We also have an amazing faculty that has extensive knowledge in different specialties, but also the basic foundations of nursing,” said Kim.

At the Mason and Partners (MAP) Clinics, Kim was able to practice what he learned in real-world scenarios with real patients. The School of Nursing operates several MAP Clinics, interprofessional bridge-care model free clinics that serve the uninsured and refugee community within Prince William and Fairfax counties in Northern Virginia. Kim provided vaccines to children and taught others to do the same, performed assessments independently, and lead students as a charge nurse.

“This opportunity with our MAP Clinics is important because of the different skills that you utilize and practice outside of the hospital setting. I was able to directly handle an individual’s care and communicate with my peers. This helps students build more of their communication and assessment skills which in turn is beneficial for clinicals in the hospital,” said Kim.

Kim is focused on using his skills to help individuals in underserved communities and is excited to make a difference. He sees his future nursing job in Inova’s adult observational unit as another way to have a positive impact on more patients. Kim describes the unit as similar to the emergency department’s fast-paced atmosphere, which will allow him to strengthen his previous nursing and critical thinking skills in a medical/surgical setting, and his evidence-based skills.

During his BSN program, Kim also participated in virtual reality (VR) training during his pediatrics rotation. The VR training complimented his in-person experiences by helping him feel more confident in his skills. The College of Public Health’s VR and Simulation Labs allow students two practice scenarios that “challenged us to utilize knowledge taught to us from our lectures,” according to Kim. He found it beneficial to have the instructors guiding him whenever he got stuck and to discuss how the scenario could be improved in the future.

He also values the teamwork in the program through clinicals, assignments, and his participation with the Student Nurses’ Association (SNA). Through these, he says he’s formed long-lasting friendships and help others within the program.

As vice president of SNA, Kim brought innovative ideas the to student-run organization that hosts for professional and social events for student nurses, such as clothing drives and professional speakers. This role helped him hone his leadership and communication skills by creating a community and opportunities for Mason Nursing students.

He is grateful for all he’s learned at Mason and feels prepared for the professional world. Kim wants to continue to improve his craft and would eventually like to become a nurse practitioner.

Apply to Mason

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College of Public Health

bachelor of science in nursing

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TTIP

bachelor of science in nursing

An alumna's journey from 911�� nursing to NIH clinical research

How do you use what you learned in the BSN program in your current job with NIAID?

When did you realize you were interested in public health and infectious diseases?

You said you weren’t always sure about nursing. What changed?

What has stayed with you most from your 911�� education?

Why does public health matter to you now?

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Topics

School of Nursing offers its first full scholarship thanks to generous donor support

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Key Takeaways:

In This Story

Topics

Student nurses converge for an interdisciplinary research conference organized by 911�� students

In This Story

Topics

Bringing a Veteran’s Global Perspective to Nursing

Topics

This Mason Nurse makes an impact one patient at a time

Read More Graduation Stories

Topics

bachelor of science in nursing

An alumna's journey from 911���� nursing to NIH clinical research

How do you use what you learned in the BSN program in your current job with NIAID?

When did you realize you were interested in public health and infectious diseases?

You said you weren’t always sure about nursing. What changed?

What has stayed with you most from your 911���� education?

Why does public health matter to you now?

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Topics

School of Nursing offers its first full scholarship thanks to generous donor support

Related Stories

Key Takeaways:

In This Story

Topics

Student nurses converge for an interdisciplinary research conference organized by 911���� students

In This Story

Topics

Bringing a Veteran’s Global Perspective to Nursing

Topics

This Mason Nurse makes an impact one patient at a time

Read More Graduation Stories

Topics

An alumna's journey from 911�� nursing to NIH clinical research

What has stayed with you most from your 911�� education?

Student nurses converge for an interdisciplinary research conference organized by 911�� students