For many nursing students, inspiration begins at home. For Kent State University College of Nursing junior Quren Jarvis, that inspiration came from her mother, whose LPN career sparked Jarvis’ own interest in healthcare. In high school, Jarvis completed an LPN program, which further affirmed her passion for nursing, a field that not only challenges Jarvis but also allows her to serve others. When it came time to choose a university, Kent State quickly rose to the top.
“For me, it had a lot to do with location. It was my sister’s senior year, and I wanted to be close to home,” said Jarvis, who was also familiar with Kent State’s strong reputation. “I had heard good things about Kent State’s nursing program, and after my campus visit, it already felt like home.”
Beyond proximity, Jarvis felt drawn to Kent State’s supportive environment. For her, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) represented both professional opportunity and personal growth.
“I wanted to obtain my BSN because I wanted to broaden my scope of practice,” said Jarvis. “I always questioned whether or not I would go to college, but I decided to prove to myself that I could do it and do it well.”
On track to graduate in spring 2027, Jarvis hopes to work in psychology and pursue a future as a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Outside of the classroom, Jarvis channels her belief in community into an active campus life. In her residence hall, she serves as a resident assistant and has worked as a Destination Kent State orientation leader, roles that put her directly in the path of students who are just finding their footing at the university. Her organizational involvement runs equally as deep. She is a member of the National Black Nurses Association (Akron chapter), serves as vice president of Sister Circle, and holds the role of community chair for Kent State’s National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) chapter.
“I believe that community is important, and I try to cultivate it in everything that I do,” said Jarvis. “Making sure to have that extra support is really nice, especially from people who have already been through what I have gone through.”
These leadership roles have allowed Jarvis to mentor others while fostering spaces for connection across campus. Throughout her academic journey, Jarvis has experienced her own personal growth, gaining valuable insight into the person she is becoming.
“I have learned that I am a type B person with type A tendencies,” said Jarvis. “But I’ve also learned that it’s important to give yourself grace. You don’t have to learn every lesson the hard way. Learn from other people’s mistakes and lean on them for help when you can.”
Jarvis applies many lessons from nursing school to her daily routine. A firm believer that you cannot pour from an empty cup, Jarvis prioritizes wellness and staying prepared.
“I seek help academically before I need it by attending supplemental instruction,” said Jarvis. “I show up for myself by maintaining a good diet and going to the gym regularly.”
When asked to share a favorite memory from the nursing program, Jarvis recalled the opportunity to speak on a panel to prospective nursing students during a Future Flashes event.
“My academic advisor, Melissa Fenn, asked me to share my story and advice on the panel,” said Jarvis. “Now, some of those students are here as fellow nursing students, and I get to engage with them as an orientation leader.”
Drawing from her own experiences, Jarvis has clear advice for students considering the BSN program, ‘find your people early and don’t wait until you’re struggling to ask for help.’
For Jarvis, that sense of support is strengthened by an equal commitment to self-care.
“Get involved, but remember to take care of yourself first,” she said. “Have fun with your friends, but when it comes to your studies, put yourself first.”
Jarvis is grateful for the strong community and connections that continue to support her growth.
“The nursing program is going to be hard, and you may not love every class or every professor, but I truly believe the faculty and staff at Kent State want you to succeed,” said Jarvis. “Think about the future you want, and remember that one day, you’re going to walk across that stage, and it’ll all be worth it.”
Balancing leadership, academics, and self-care, Jarvis continues to create space for herself and others, showing that success is even sweeter when shared.
