Muncie community members volunteer as patients in simulation-based nursing classes, which help Ball State students immerse themselves in a realistic, hands-on learning environment. Photo by Michelle Jones, ’04 MA ’18
Ball State nursing students gain hands-on experience through clinical simulations supported by community volunteers who serve as real-life patient stand-ins and provide valuable feedback.
Ball State University’s School of Nursing and the Muncie community have formed an unofficial, but mutually beneficial, relationship.
Offered through the College of Health, the school prepares its students to thrive in the workforce by developing the clinical skills and judgment required for professional nursing. Many graduates of the program go on to serve in hospitals and medical facilities regionally and throughout the state of Indiana.
In turn, the community gives back in a unique way—helping students prepare for fulfilling careers and meaningful lives.
Community members volunteer as patients within simulation-based experiences for nursing classes across the curriculum, according to Jane Milleman, ’03, nursing simulation operations coordinator. During these sessions, students conduct assessments while the volunteers portray a range of medical concerns—such as a foot wound, gastrointestinal bleed, or anxiety.
“Having a real person play a role in a simulation really enhances the reality,” said Dani Ely, ’11, director of nursing simulation. “When the patient is a mannequin in a bed, sometimes that can be limiting for students to use their imagination and think about this as a real experience. But with the real person acting in the role and sitting there, that really enhances it for our students.”
Pat Greenberg is part of a growing, tight-knit group of volunteers who helped fill 628 simulation slots last year. She enjoys the work and says it helps keep her active in retirement.
“I like working with the students because it keeps me younger, and I catch their enthusiasm and positive attitudes,” she said.
Ms. Greenberg and about 30 other volunteers provide immediate feedback during the simulations and complete post-event surveys that offer students constructive input on their communication style and professionalism—aligned with best practices for standardized patients.
“Watching the first-year students come in all scared and nervous, it’s fun putting them at ease and smiling, knowing that you’re helping them out,” she said. “And then you see that the second- and third-year students are more confident and give advice. It’s a joy to watch them grow.”
For most nurses, work is more than a paycheck; it’s a passion for compassion and a commitment to serve others.
Because Ball State nursing students can immerse themselves in realistic, hands-on learning environments, they benefit from valuable feedback—and gain a head start on fulfilling, impactful careers.
“I feel like I’m investing in the future,” Ms. Greenberg said. “Someday, these nursing students may be my nurses. So, I’m investing in my medical future as well as theirs.”
The School of Nursing is looking to expand its network of volunteers. Those interested can visit the “Ball State University School of Nursing Volunteers” Facebook page or email Jane Milleman at jane.milleman@bsu.edu.
