WVU Hospitals (WVUH) has opened applications for its Summer Nurse Externship Program, set to run from June 1 to August 1, 2026. This nine-week paid program is designed to assist nursing students in transitioning from classroom learning to clinical practice. The initiative aims to equip participants with essential hands-on experiences that enhance both their clinical skills and confidence in patient care.
In 2025, the program welcomed 50 nurse externs, who took part in various clinical rotations across specialties such as surgery, critical care, pediatrics, and emergency medicine. This diverse exposure allows nursing students entering their senior year to gain a comprehensive understanding of patient care while shadowing experienced nurses at WVU Hospitals.
Hands-On Experience and Professional Growth
The externship is not merely a summer job; it provides an invaluable opportunity for personal and professional development. “Our externship is more than a summer job – it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover where your passion in nursing lies,” said Ashley Biafore, nurse extern and Aspiring Nurse coordinator at WVUH. She emphasized that by the conclusion of the program, students not only refine their clinical skills but also gain clarity about their future in the nursing profession.
Participants will work closely with seasoned WVUH nurses, allowing them to gather insights into the realities of patient care. This practical experience is pivotal in helping students develop the skills necessary to succeed in their future roles within the healthcare system.
Opportunities for Future Employment
For many externs, this program serves as a stepping stone to further opportunities within WVU Medicine. Following the completion of the externship, students may be offered the chance to extend their roles in selected units, paving the way for future employment and career advancement.
Those interested in applying for the Summer Nurse Externship Program can do so online at WVUMedicine.org/Careers or through the direct job posting link. For further inquiries, prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out to Ashley Biafore at [email protected] or by calling 304-598-4000 ext. 161132.
As the healthcare field continues to evolve, programs like this are essential in preparing the next generation of nursing professionals for the challenges and responsibilities they will face in their careers.
