Nursing Senior Balances School, Work, Service, Community

Nursing Senior Balances School, Work, Service, Community

From the cornfields of Hamler, Ohio, to the classrooms and clinicals of The University of Toledo, senior nursing student Chase Gillson has built a college experience defined by service, leadership and school spirit.

"I was drawn to UToledo's nursing program because of its excellent reputation for preparing students for the real-world challenges of nursing," said Gillson, who graduates next year with a bachelor's degree in nursing. "Before deciding on nursing, I also preferred UToledo because of its strong STEM programs. I knew this was the level of education I wanted to pursue."

Having worked nearly two years as a patient care technician at the University of Toledo Medical Center, Gillson now works in the trauma unit of ProMedica Toledo Hospital with other UToledo students and alumni.

On campus, he serves as treasurer of the Student Nurses Association and is an active leader in multiple student organizations, including Student Government, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Order of Omega Honor Society and College Republicans. He credits his fraternity service chair role for helping him lead initiatives that achieved more than one thousand hours of community service, including canned food drives, neighborhood clean-ups and meal preparation for Toledo residents in need.

He also volunteers with service groups such as Pay it Forward, Circle K, Rockethon, Big Event, Humanity First and Bridge.

Among his favorite campus memories are participating in UToledo's 2024 Homecoming.

"Last year, my fraternity won first place in the parade float competition and I got to be in the first row for our win against Miami," he said. "Toledo traditions like that are my favorite part of being a Rocket."

Gillson credits Dr. Jim Oberlander, director of the BSN program, as one of his biggest influences at UToledo.

"He always brings a fun yet professional energy to the classroom," Gillson said. "His leadership has been impactful in my success, and I always look forward to his lectures and our conversations."

Oberlander said he appreciates Gillson's contributions as a student.

"Chase is an attentive and motivated student who contributes meaningfully to discussions and activities," Oberlander said. "His active engagement reflects both his dedication to the field of nursing and his commitment to growing as a future healthcare professional."

After graduation, Gillson said he plans to remain in the Toledo area to gain experience in local hospitals while staying active in community service and mission trips. He also looks forward to enjoying his free time at home games and fishing on Lake Erie.

"No matter how afraid or defeated you feel, push on and take every opportunity you can," Gillson said. "Join that organization, meet new people, volunteer and step out of your comfort zone. Those are the things that create amazing memories and prepare you for life after college."