Each year, IU Indianapolis honors 100 outstanding undergraduate students who demonstrate excellence in three categories—academic excellence, campus leadership, and community engagement. These Top 100 Jags represent everything that makes IU Indianapolis exceptional.
Emma Cornett, a BSN student who will graduate in May 2025, has been chosen as one of IU Indianapolis' Top 100 students for 2025. Below, learn more about Emma’s journey at the IU School of Nursing at Indianapolis and the organizations and groups she's chosen to volunteer with during her time at IU Indianapolis.
What has been your favorite or most memorable class or educational opportunity while studying at the IU School of Nursing? Why?
My most memorable educational opportunity while studying at the IU School of Nursing is spending a day in the operating room during my critical care clinical. This was the first time I was truly exposed to the surgery world, and I was immediately intrigued. This clinical day inspired me to want to become an operating room nurse!
What activities or organizations are you involved in, and why did you choose these groups?
I have been a part of Jagathon for the last four years, a member of Phi Mu Rho Alpha for the past three years, and have played on various intramural sand volleyball teams. I joined Jagathon because I feel very passionate about supporting and caring for our pediatric patient population. I decided to become a member of Phi Mu because I was looking for a community of dedicated, likeminded women! Our local philanthropy is Riley Hospital for Children so that also inspired me to join.
Why was it important to you to take on extra activities and leadership roles while studying at IU Indianapolis and the IU School of Nursing?
It was important to me to take on extra activities and leadership roles because I wanted to feel connected to IU Indianapolis and the IU School of Nursing. Not only were these activities great opportunities for me to give back to my community and gain leadership experience, but they also blessed me with some of my greatest friends.
Who has inspired you during your nursing school journey?
During my nursing school journey, I have been most inspired by one of my favorite instructors Bryan White. Bryan made learning enjoyable and intriguing, and his compassion inspired me to strive to be the best nurse I can be.
What are your plans after completing your Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
Following the completion of my BSN, I plan to move to Cincinnati and become an Operating Room Nurse!
What does the recognition of being a Top 100 student mean to you?
The recognition of being a Top 100 student is validation that I have achieved my goal of being the best student that I can be, while also being involved in extracurricular and philanthropic activities.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Shoutout to my nursing study group Molly, Alexia, Avery, Aubrey, and Emma G.!! They make the hardest times fun, and I couldn't have done it without them!
