The Nebraska State Student Nurses’ Association has presented UNMC College of Nursing student Melinda Sonderup with the Nebraska State Student Nurse of the Year Award.
The LaVista resident received a certificate, one-year membership in the Nebraska Nurses’ Association and a plaque, which will be presented during graduation ceremonies in May. The award was announced during the organization’s annual convention in Fremont.
Inspired by mom
Sonderup said she choose nursing partly because of the influence and inspiration of her mother, who is a nurse.
“I grew up in a small town and all my life I have watched her serve as a health resource for the members of our community,” Sonderup said. “People reach out to her regularly for medical knowledge, clarification and advice.
“They call because of her professionalism, her solid commitment to confidentiality, for the honest and compassionate answer they receive, and because of the trust she has instilled in their hearts because she never turns away from an opportunity to educate, promote wellness and/or improve one’s quality of life. I have wanted to be a nurse since I was 5 years old.”
Motivated to help others
Sonderup said she is motivated to make a difference in the world.
“I have a passion for helping others, as well as for teaching them how to help themselves,” she said. “The most interesting and holistic way I have found to do this is by joining the medical field.
“My philosophy for my work and for my life is simple: to serve others with a compassionate heart; to be an inspiration for people, and to let people be an inspiration to me; to be motivated and a mentor; to practice personal and professional integrity; to be a lifelong learner; and to truly enjoy every day of my life. I figure that by living a simple life one person truly can make a difference in the world, and together we can make an impact.”
Compassion for patients
“Melinda’s strongest gift is her genuine compassion for her patients,” said one of her nominators. “She delivers safe, supportive care to each individual and family. In addition, she shows care and concern and works to improve the patient’s psychological status along with their physical health. Her patients respond to her sincerity and warmth and express thanks to her when she cares for them.”
Her nominators also said she is an excellent student and “learns as much as she can while in school and shows characteristics of a life-long learner.”
Active volunteer
Sonderup is involved in numerous volunteer activities, including: nursing student representative and provider of health care services with the Cosmopolitan-UNMC College of Nursing Mobile Nursing Center; working with the Student Safety Committee, the Mentorship Program, the National Student Nursing Association and the American Red Cross at the UNMC College of Nursing.
In regards to her involvement with the Mobile Nursing Center, one nominator said, “Melinda’s compassionate and non-judgmental approach to all of our diverse clients, as well as her communication skills, support a positive work environment that benefits clients, families and the staff. She has demonstrated outstanding commitment to and support of the mission and work of the Mobile Nursing Center.”
Working on 5 West
The people she has worked for since May 2003 also appreciate Sonderup, a care technician on 5 West at The Nebraska Medical Center.
“She has provided outstanding service to her patients and fellow co-workers on 5W,” said Jeaniffr Snide, 5 West manager. “Mindie is self motivated, energetic, and thrives when faced with a challenge. She will be a great asset to the 5W nursing staff. The 5 West staff is happy to see her accomplishments as a student recognized with such a prestigious award. We look forward to her graduation and beginning her new role as a RN-BSN on 5 West.”