Former Medical Student Finds Her Calling in Nursing at Gordon State College
By Karolina Philmon, GSC marketing & communications manager
At Gordon State College, nursing student Alyssa Smith has found a new path to her healthcare career, turning an unexpected transition from medical school into an opportunity to pursue her passion for hands-on patient care.
A native of Forsyth, Georgia, Smith initially pursued a career in medicine before realizing her desire for more direct patient interaction and meaningful connections with those in her care. That realization ultimately led her to GSC, where she has embraced opportunities for academic excellence, leadership and clinical experience while preparing for a future in nursing.
Now in her fourth semester of GSC's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, Smith is on track to graduate in May 2027.
Throughout her time at GSC, Smith has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic achievement and supporting her fellow students. Her accomplishments include consistent recognition on the President's List, serving as a nursing tutor and helping lead Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) preparation workshops for aspiring nursing students.
Her leadership and dedication also earned her the opportunity to represent GSC at the University System of Georgia Foundation Regents' Gala, reflecting her involvement in the college community.
Beyond the classroom, Smith has gained valuable experience through GSC's nursing simulation laboratories, clinical rotations and professional connections with regional healthcare providers.
“Gordon State has helped connect me with professional contacts and resources by having various nurses and hospital employees as guest speakers during lectures,” Smith said. “Gordon has also provided ample real-world scenarios with the simulation labs that help prepare us for clinical and eventually working in the hospital.”
Through GSC's outreach and clinical partnerships, Smith also secured a nurse externship on the cardiovascular step-down unit at a local hospital, where she is gaining firsthand experience in patient care while completing her nursing education.
Faculty mentorship and academic advising have also played meaningful roles in Smith's journey. She credits GSC student advisor Joanna Gibson and nursing faculty member Dr. Annette Jackson for providing guidance, encouragement and support throughout her academic experience.
Smith's experience reflects GSC's continued commitment to preparing highly skilled nurses while expanding access to healthcare education throughout Georgia.
With support from grant funding, GSC's nursing enrollment increased from 223 students in fall 2025 to 248 in fall 2026, representing an 11% increase. The college plans to add another nursing faculty member in spring 2027 as it works toward its enrollment capacity of 275 students, a projected increase of approximately 23% over fall 2025 enrollment.
According to Dr. Samantha Bishop, dean of the School of Nursing, Health and STEM, GSC's nursing programs report a 100% job placement rate, with graduates entering the healthcare workforce across the college's 14 surrounding counties and beyond.
“As a [GSC] nursing alumna, I take great pride in our program's commitment to expanding educational opportunities throughout rural Georgia,” Bishop said. “Through exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art simulation laboratories, hands-on clinical experiences and individualized support, we prepare students like Alyssa to enter the nursing workforce with the knowledge, skills and confidence to serve their communities.”
As Smith approaches the final stages of her nursing education, her achievements reflect the opportunities available to students who pursue their goals with purpose, perseverance and a passion for serving others.
Through students like Smith and the continued growth of its nursing programs, GSC remains committed to strengthening Georgia's healthcare workforce and preparing the next generation of nursing professionals.
