Annually, Princeton Community Hospital offers 10 -12 RN students who have completed one year of an associate degree or three years of a bachelor’s degree in nursing a paid opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience and develop confidence prior to graduation through the Nurse Externship Program. During this time, students are given an opportunity to perform some direct patient care activities and procedures and observe RNs in the hospital setting. This program supports nursing students in their efforts to practice their assessment and clinical skills, develop their communication and critical-thinking skills, and focus on patient safety, quality, and satisfaction.