ASNA seniors competed against top Pennsylvania nursing programs at the SNAP Convention in Harrisburg
Alvernia University’s Student Nurses Association (ASNA) achieved a milestone this fall, finishing as the runner-up in the NCLEX Bowl at the Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP) Convention in Harrisburg. Twelve teams from nursing programs across the state, including Drexel, Penn State, Villanova, and Jefferson Universities, as well as the University of Pittsburgh, competed in the high-stakes event.
The NCLEX Bowl challenges teams with multiple-choice questions similar to those found on the NCLEX exam, testing students’ knowledge in areas they will encounter as future registered nurses. Time management was a critical component of the competition, with teams needing to balance accuracy with speed.
“This opportunity supports our nursing career and education by providing us with a chance to test our knowledge,” said team member, Mackenzie Moser. “We also heard from speakers about topics like nursing leadership, workplace safety, and substance abuse care. Plus, it opened doors to connections with hospital networks and educational programs.”
The Alvernia team, comprised of seniors and ASNA board members including Moser, Jenesis Miranda, Alena Arroyo, and Grant Irwin, defeated Penn State-Fayette and Drexel University to advance to the final round, where they finished just behind Jefferson University.
“Our team was made up of incredibly hard-working students who have studied consistently throughout our nursing school journey,” said team member, Grant Irwin. “All of us are seniors entering our final semester, which helped prepare us for the NCLEX Bowl because we’ve already completed many of the topics and disciplines covered in the competition.”
Beyond the competition, the SNAP Convention provides students with educational workshops, NCLEX review sessions, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities. Attendees also explore an exhibit hall featuring representatives from hospital systems and universities, creating connections that can support future careers and continued education.
“ASNA has really guided us through these experiences,” Moser said. “Not only do we get to network with other schools across Pennsylvania, but we also access NCLEX prep resources, hospital connections, and countless other opportunities that enhance our learning overall.”
The team’s success at the SNAP Convention marks the farthest Alvernia has advanced in many years and sets the stage for future participation in national conventions, including a planned trip to the National Student Nurse Association event in Houston, Texas, in April.
“Every one of our nursing professors, especially Professors Karen Sponagle and Jeannine Tait-Donlan, has gone above and beyond to provide us with the resources, guidance, and connections needed to succeed,” said Irwin. “Their continued support, along with Alvernia’s 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate, truly prepared us for success at the SNAP conference and the NCLEX Bowl and beyond graduation.”
