Haley Simmons believes learning is most powerful when it can make a difference in someone else’s life. The third-year student will begin the Orvis School of Nursing's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program this fall. Before entering the program, Simmons turned what she learned in NURS 407: Pathophysiology: A Conceptual Approach into an Honors College project designed to help elementary school students better understand allergies.
While studying allergies and the immune system in class, Simmons worked with her professor, Jasen Brooks, to create an educational brochure that translates complex scientific concepts into language children can understand.
"We learned so much about allergies and the immune system in class that I felt it would be a great topic," Simmons said. "I imagined presenting it to my fourth-grade cousin and wrote the brochure with someone her age in mind."
The brochure introduces children to common allergies, allergic reactions and basic allergy safety concepts. Simmons' goal was to create a resource that was informative, approachable and easy for young learners to understand.
The biggest challenge, she said, was simplifying complicated information without losing its meaning.
"I didn't want to use scientific terms that kids wouldn't understand," Simmons said. "Having to break down the language really helped me understand allergies and allergic reactions better myself."
The project reinforced Simmons' belief that health education should begin early. She hopes resources like her brochure can help children feel more informed and confident, whether they have allergies themselves or know someone who does.
"Allergies can be scary if you don't know a lot about them, especially when you're young," Simmons said. "Education can help children understand what's happening and how to respond if someone around them has an allergic reaction."
She would like to see allergy education become more common in elementary classrooms.
"I think every child could benefit from learning about allergies," she said. "Even at a young age, having that knowledge can help students feel safer and more confident."
Simmons credits Brooks for helping shape the project and encouraging her creativity throughout the honors contract process.
“I was excited and honored when Haley approached me about her Honors College project,” Brooks remarked. “It always excites me to see students willing to go the extra mile for education, and to be provided with an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to excellence.
“In this case, Haley’s project not only enhanced her learning, but has the potential to educate others, and potentially improve health outcomes for vulnerable individuals. As an individual with several life-threatening allergies, the importance of this project was clear. Additionally, this project aligns with the approaches and goals of the nursing profession: to improve the health and wellbeing of people. To see this early in Haley’s career demonstrates the amazing Orvis nurse she will become!”
Outside the classroom, Simmons has embraced opportunities to get involved on campus, including Care Club, Wolf Pack Miracle Network, the Women's Club Soccer Team, the Peer Health Educator Program and Kappa Alpha Theta. This fall, she will also return as a HealthFIT mentor. She encourages incoming students to seek out similar opportunities.
"I've made so many friends through clubs and programs," Simmons said. "They've helped me build a community and made college feel more like home."
The Honors College has also played a significant role in her university experience. Living in the Honors Living Learning Community during her first year helped her build lasting friendships and find a strong support network.
"The Honors College has its own little community," Simmons said. "Everyone is supportive, hardworking and passionate about what they do."
As she prepares to begin the nursing program this fall, Simmons is excited to follow in her family's footsteps. Inspired by her mother and grandmother, both nurses, she has long admired the compassion, kindness and dedication they bring to their work.
"My mom and grandma are some of my favorite people," Simmons said. "They are so caring and kind, and I would like to think I share those qualities. Nursing called to me because of the care you provide and how much time you get to spend with patients."
By transforming complex concepts into information children can understand, Simmons is helping create a more informed and supportive community. Her commitment to education, service and helping others reflects The Wolf Pack Way, demonstrating the power of using knowledge and compassion to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
