Passion, community and involvement have shaped my UC experience
By: Jordyn Bailey, Bachelor of Science in Nursing '26; Nursing Student Ambassador
As a Bachelor of Science in Nursing freshman admitted to the University of Cincinnati Honors Program (UHP), I was required to take an introductory seminar during my first semester. I vividly recall rushing to Swift Hall after my anatomy and physiology lecture for that first class. The back rows were mostly filled, so I settled into an aisle seat in the front row. I was a bit nervous, but excited to step outside the intense nursing curriculum and experience a change of pace. That initial class largely focused on housekeeping details—syllabus highlights, expectations, deadlines—but as we wrapped up, our professor shared a striking anecdote that concluded with this thought: “If, after 4-5 years of college, all you have to show for it is a transcript, you’ve done it wrong.”
Bailey and UC students during the AACRC Transitions Program
Fully immersing myself in UC’s dynamic culture of intellect, spirit and opportunity has been the most rewarding decision of my undergraduate journey. As a freshman, I was brimming with passion, energy and a desire to make a difference. Yet, it is my community—my “village”—through spaces like the African American Cultural and Resource Center (AACRC) and the Office of Ethnic Programs and Services that truly harnessed and nurtured this ambition. These communities provided the mentorship, encouragement and sense of belonging that empowered me to grow into the impactful leader I have always aspired to be.
I am a Cincinnatus Presidential Scholar, Darwin T. Turner Scholar and Area Health Education Center Scholar. Currently, I serve as co-president of the United Black Student Association, whose mission centers around advocating, empowering and unifying Black students. I am a proud member of two prestigious women’s honoraries—The Lambda Society and CWEST—and mentor first-year students through both the AACRC Transitions Program and the College of Nursing iLead Program. I spearhead health literacy efforts at the St. Vincent DePaul Neyer Outreach Center as a UC Open School leader. I also serve as an ambassador for the College of Nursing and Turner Scholars Program, as well as the Community Outreach Director for AMBITION, a student organization dedicated to supporting underrepresented populations in the College of Nursing.
Beyond these leadership roles, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with the Office of the President and representing UC at national conferences. My work has earned recognition through numerous awards, which acknowledge my contributions to the University and Greater Cincinnati community. Alongside these experiences and accolades, I maintain a strong academic record as a consistent Dean’s List honoree, work as a Patient Care Assistant and as a student employee in the Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life. Through these diverse experiences, I’ve gained invaluable insights into collaborative leadership, community engagement and impactful service.
Bailey and UC President Neville Pinto at the reception honoring Presidential Leadership Medal of Excellence winners
My deep involvement in these organizations and initiatives stems from a strong belief in the power of community and the responsibility to uplift others. Leadership is not just about individual achievement, but about using one’s position to create opportunities, foster inclusion and give back to those who may not have the same resources or support. Being involved in so many different aspects of campus life has allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, amplify underrepresented voices and actively contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment.
As a nursing student, I’m particularly motivated to break down barriers and ensure that those who are called to this profession—especially those from marginalized communities—have the tools and mentorship they need to succeed. My leadership roles do not stop at their titles; they’re a platform to create meaningful change and make a tangible impact on the lives of others, both within the University and in the broader community. The more I engage, the more I realize how much each of these experiences enriches my growth, sharpening my skills in empathy, communication and collaboration—all essential qualities to becoming a versatile nurse prepared to move the profession forward with cultural humility.
Leadership is not just about individual achievement, but about using one’s position to create opportunities, foster inclusion and give back to those who may not have the same resources or support.
Jordyn Bailey
As I reflect on my own journey, I urge younger students to seize every opportunity to get involved and pursue their passions with intention and purpose. Echoing the advice of that UHP advisor from three years ago, college is more than just earning a degree—it’s exploring, being challenged, embracing community and growing in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. Whether through student organizations, mentorship, entrepreneurial ventures, or community engagement, the experiences you seek out will enrich not only your academic path, but your personal development as well. As you continue thrive and shine, you will illuminate a path for future Bearcats to follow.
Your time is now! UC offers countless avenues to create a meaningful, transformative undergraduate experience—one that elevates, empowers and inspires. Embrace these opportunities, and allow yourself to fully realize your potential, and then some!
Related Stories
New UC program focuses on caring for the underserved
January 20, 2021
The UC College of Nursing and James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy are collaborating on a graduate certificate to train students to care for the underserved. There is a growing need in the community for health care workers with these skills.
Classes begin for increasingly diverse student body at UC
August 23, 2021
The first day of classes for the fall semester at the University of Cincinnati starts Monday, Aug. 23, and more than 46,700 students are expected to begin instruction with a more traditional fall term, focusing on in-person instruction and activities.
UC researcher gets more than $1M to diversify nursing workforce
September 5, 2023
With funding from two grants, Ann Gakumo, PhD, who serves as the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing’s associate dean for inclusion and community impact, will drive forward efforts that recruit and support racially and ethnically diverse undergraduate nursing students at UC and build a learning collaborative that promotes anti-racist academic environments at sites across the country.