Columbus Community Hospital Launches Comprehensive Student Nurse Internship Program with Financial Support

Columbus Community Hospital (CCH) is proud to announce the launch of its comprehensive Student Nurse Internship Program — a vital initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of nursing professionals.

Recognizing the increasing demand for skilled and compassionate nurses, CCH has developed a robust program that offers not only invaluable hands-on experience, but also significant financial support to aspiring nurses at various stages of their education.

"The Student Nurse Internship Program at Columbus Community Hospital is vital in developing a future workforce dedicated to serving our local community," said Dona Kudron, RN, director of the infusion center at CCH. "Addressing Nebraska's nursing shortage is crucial for health care access, and our Student Nurse Internship Program is a key part of the solution."

The program features three distinct tracks, catering to a diverse range of students — those pursuing a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN), those working toward an Associate Degree in nursing (ADN), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) seeking to advance their careers and become registered nurses. This tiered approach ensures that students receive tailored training and mentorship relevant to their specific educational goals.

A cornerstone of the CCH Student Nurse Internship Program is its commitment to alleviating the financial burden often associated with pursuing a nursing degree. The hospital will cover up to 75% of tuition costs, as well as expenses for books and fees, for selected interns.

"Our program helps interns build a strong foundation for success in nursing," says Alicia Neidig, MSN, RN director of professional practice at CCH. "By pairing interns with experienced mentors, we provide the skills, expertise and support they need to navigate their studies with confidence."

The internship program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience within a dynamic hospital setting, working alongside experienced nurses and health care professionals. Interns have the chance to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios, developing crucial clinical skills and building confidence in their abilities.

"The program offers invaluable hands-on experience that bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world practice," added Kudron. "Beyond textbooks and technical skills, we ensure that students have the opportunity to explore various departments, allowing them to discover the areas of nursing that resonate with their passions. This personalized approach fosters a sense of excitement and enthusiasm about their profession, while also ensuring that they are well-prepared to transition into their careers upon graduation."

With the support of the Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA), CCH is excited to continue fostering and supporting the growth of future nurses through student nurse internships. The NHA’s support highlights the importance of addressing the nursing shortage in the state of Nebraska. While the program is not new to CCH, this partnership with the NHA is. This partnership will allow CCH to continue supporting future nurses as they work through nursing school.

"With the support of the Nebraska Hospital Association, we are excited to expand our ability to nurture the next generation of nurses,” said Neidig. “This partnership with the NHA adds another layer of support to our already established and structured program, helping future nurses navigate the challenges of nursing school.”

Application periods for the internship are as follows: March 1-April 14, 2025, for spring internships, and Sept. 15-Oct. 31, 2025, for fall internships. Interested individuals are encouraged to learn more and apply by contacting Alecia Neidig at 402-562-3366 or amneidig@columbushosp.org, or Dona Kudron at 402-562-4624 or djkudron@columbushosp.org.

CCH remains steadfast in its mission to provide exceptional health care services to the Columbus community. This innovative internship program exemplifies its commitment to fostering a strong and well-equipped health care workforce.