Focus On Students With Thomas Minges

Thomas Minges, RN, is a graduate student at UC in the nurse anesthesia program. He graduated from the College of Mount St. Joseph with a bachelor’s degree in nursing ('07) and gained his clinical experience at Christ Hospital. Recently, Thomas was elected to serve as a student board member on the Ohio State Association of Nurse Anesthetists (OSANA). This position asks him to represent all nurse anesthesia students in Ohio, bringing issues to the board as needed. As a member, he will take part as a nonvoting member of board meetings concerning the general welfare of Ohio’s Certified Register Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and their practice as anesthesia providers. 

Why did you decide to pursue a nursing degree as an undergraduate?  

 "I have always wanted to be a nurse in hopes one day I would be a nurse anesthetist. My mom is a nurse and early on I was able to get into the OR and follow a CRNA. Since then I have been hooked.”

What made you decide to enter the Nurse Anesthesia Program here at UC?

"I was born and raised in Cincinnati. The program at UC is one of the top programs in the country and is known for its high level of successful graduates. I knew there were other good programs, but I wanted to stay here due to its reputation. Also, I wanted to stay for my family’s sake and I have a great support system here.” 

What were some positives and negatives of your clinical duties?

"The biggest positive I can say about clinical is also the negative. As a student I spend 50-plus hours a week in the OR. This means I am constantly getting experience which will only help me grow as an anesthetist, but at the same time there is not much time for anything else other than eat, sleep, prepare and do it all over again. My family is understanding, but it is not easy by any means.”

Do you plan on staying here post-graduation?

"I grew up in Cincinnati and everything that I love is here. Right now there is no reason to be anywhere else. Post-graduation I would like to stay in this area. Education has always been one of my passions and I do not see that changing anytime soon. So Cincinnati is a good place to be and I do not see that changing. "

As a member of the OSANA student board, are there any particular concerns you plan on addressing?

"As of now I am just getting a feel for the position. This position will allow me interact with all the students in Ohio, address any specific concerns they may have and promote the importance of being involved in their professional organization. I also am interested to see how the students in Ohio perceive their education and the experiences they have had while in school.

What do you like to do in your spare time? Do you have hobbies or interests?

"Spare time … What is that? I look forward to spending time with my beautiful wife and my amazing 2.5-year-old son in my spare time. My hobbies are riding motorcycles with my wife, scuba diving, watching TV and sleeping—most of which have been neglected in the past year.”