Since 2022, more than 140 students have completed SHINES. They learn about the nursing profession, practice hands-on activities and hear from working nurses and health care professionals. Students also get one-on-one support from mentors who help them polish their resumes and plan their next steps.
Since 2022, more than 140 area high school and community college students have completed the SHINES summer program.
Clinicians who look like their patients
“Our intention is to reach out to students who, because of whatever background they have, may not see themselves in nursing or in health professions,” explainedPiri Ackerman, associate dean for Student Affairs and Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. “This is an opportunity to increase diversity and to ensure that students who may have doubted that they have a place in health professions see that, not only do they have a place, but we need them.”
Ackerman says research proves that patients have better outcomes when cared for people by who share their culture and experiences.
Watch VideoSince 2022, more than 140 graduates from the Summer Health Institute for Nursing Exploration and Success are rethinking their futures.
UC Davis nursing's SHINES program sets students on future nursing careers
Matthew Perez was unsure about a career in health care until a school counselor encouraged him to apply. “I got in, and it’s honestly changed my life,” he said. Now, he takes classes at Sacramento City College and works part-time at the School of Nursing. He has set his sights on earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
TaLeah Williams joined SHINES in 2023 as a high school senior. She expected to learn a little about nursing. Instead, she left knowing it was her calling. Today, she works as a patient care technician and is taking classes to apply to nursing school.
“SHINES had a direct impact on my life,” she said. “Now look at me — I’m actually in the medical field.”
Removing the obstacle of fear
SHINES Assistant Director Patricia Fernandez said the goal is to help students make smart choices about their future. “We’re helping them break down that fear and understand that you can become a nurse,” she said.
SHINES graduateMatthew Perez, center, hopes other students leave the summer program with tools to map out their journey to a nursing career, the way he’s done.
Perez and Williams are living proof the SHINES pathway is working to help students from all backgrounds find confidence, support and a future in health care.
The SHINESwebsitewill be updated in spring 2026 with details about how to apply for next summer’s program.
