Scholarship Lets Palm Springs​ Sibling Duo Study Nursing Together

PALM DESERT, CA — Two Palm Desert siblings are studying nursing together thanks to matching full ride scholarships for both students.

In a news release, Cal State San Bernardino said both students received scholarships through the Palm Desert Campus' University Legacy Scholarship program, which offers up to $7,000 per year for outstanding graduating high school seniors in the Coachella Valley.

Older sister Jennifer Hanson is a junior nursing major. She said she decided to study at PDC after seeing its nursing program's lab.

“I went to a student info session while still in high school and got to tour their lab. Learning about what the nursing students experienced both in the classroom and in the hospital setting amazed me and really convinced me to apply,” she said in a statement.

Her brother Scott Hanson, a freshman, said while he has not attended any in-person classes yet due to the coronavirus pandemic, he has enjoyed the early months of his college experience.

“My college counselor at Palm Desert High School informed me about all the benefits of staying local for college and I was instantly convinced,” Scott said. “The fact that an amazing education and nursing program is only five minutes away from my home is unbeatable. Though I have not attended any in-person classes yet because the university is closed for in-person classes due to COVID-19, I have been enjoying virtually meeting and bonding with my professors and classmates."

The siblings said studying at the same campus has been helpful for both of them. While Jennifer enjoys that it lets the Hanson family spend more time together, Scott said he is grateful to have the guidance of a more experienced college student.

“Having Jennifer also attend PDC as a University Legacy Scholar is a proud achievement for the both of us,” said Scott. “Being the first siblings to receive University Legacy Scholarships tells us that our futures are just getting started thanks to PDC. Additionally, having an experienced PDC student as my sister is a breath of fresh air. I had lots of questions while transitioning into my first year of college, and Jennifer was there to answer them.”

In a news release, both siblings said they plan to become Coachella Valley-area nurses after graduating. Jennifer said she also attends to apply for a graduate program before going to work full time.

“Once I graduate, I plan to take a few months to study for the National Council Licensure Exam for Nursing,” she said. “Once I pass the exam, I plan to apply for a grad program at a hospital so I get more experience before becoming a fully independent nurse. Once the program is complete, I hope to start working at a local hospital.”