D’Aira Jackson Chose UMKC for its School of Nursing and Health Studies

At UMKC, the students are our story. Introducing a new digital storytelling project. Look, listen and learn about us through interviews, photographs and videos of our students. Read the other student stories and go to umkcgoingplaces.tumblr.com and follow.

D’AIRA JACKSON

Nursing major | School of Nursing and Health Studies | 2019

Where is UMKC taking you?

I’m a freshman from Belleville, Ill., and I hope that UMKC takes me to a master of nursing degree. I want to be a neonatal nurse who works with babies.

Why did you choose UMKC?

I wanted to get away from Belleville, because there’s nothing for me there. My cousin goes to UMKC so that was good, because I didn’t want to be all alone. But I hardly ever see her.

My UMKC experience has been wonderful. It’s so supportive here; I feel like I can’t fail. I’m failing myself if I don’t take advantage of all the opportunities.

What led you to UMKC?

My mom suggested nursing as a major for me, because I like to be helpful and give a lot to other people. I knew UMKC had a nursing school.

What are your lifelong goals?

I want to get my degree and become an R.N. As a nurse, I would have lots of career options.

What motto do you live by?

Get it done now. It will be worth it in the end!

What excites you?

I’m excited about working at the UMKC Welcome Center. It’s my first real job. I help set up campus tours, sometimes lead the tours and assist in other ways. I also get excited about movies and shopping.