ɫ�ش�ý

Parris Jones-Hammock, an ABSN student at ɫ�ش�ý, had a transformative experience on a class trip to Guatemala—one that he says has further instilled a desire to give back to underserved communities and gain diverse clinical experiences.

“That trip allowed me to work hands-on in underserved communities and truly shaped my time at ɫ�ش�ý, making it one of the most rewarding chapters of my life,” said Jones-Hammock.

Assisting with Prenatal and Maternal Care in Guatemala

In Summer 2024, Jones-Hammock joined eight other ABSN students and clinical instructors and on an ABSN Global Clinical Immersion Trip to the Huehuetenango region of Guatemala. Staying at the Casa Materna in Calhuitz, the group rotated between clinics, maternal houses, and community outreach locations.

“Each day, we participated in home visits to provide prenatal care, newborn assessments, and education for new mothers. We worked alongside local nurses who performed deliveries at the Casa Materna, witnessing births without medications and assisting with maternal care,” said Jones-Hammock.

“Additionally, we visited schools to teach children about hygiene and gender equality, incorporating educational games and even playing soccer with the staff and kids,” Jones-Hammock added.

On top of the professional and educational experience, the group also explored local culture through visits to markets, the Mayan ruins in Zaculeu, Lake Atitlán, and Antigua.

“Overall, it was an amazing experience that allowed us to grow as nurses while supporting the local communities,” said Jones-Hammock.

The Next Generation of Men in Nursing

Formerly a medical scribe and phlebotomist with CityMD in New York, Jones-Hammock decided to pursue the nursing profession after interacting closely with patients and realizing how much he loved being part of their care journey. But he said it wasn’t just his experiences with patients that drew him to nursing.

“I also saw the need for greater representation of men in the profession, and I wanted to be part of that change,” said Jones-Hammock. “Nursing felt like the perfect fit—a way to combine my love for patient care with the opportunity to inspire others and break barriers.”

At the School of Nursing, Jones-Hammock serves as Vice President of the ɫ�ش�ý American Association for Men in Nursing (DAAMN), where he advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the nursing profession and helps promote greater representation of men in nursing. He is also a Cohort Representative, facilitating communication between students and faculty, as well as Treasurer for the .

"Through my involvement, I’ve developed skills in communication, organization, and advocacy, while building meaningful connections with faculty and peers,” said Jones-Hammock. “These experiences have given me a sense of purpose and have reinforced my commitment to becoming a leader in the nursing profession.”

After graduation, Jones-Hammock hopes to work in the Neuro ICU or Burn ICU, providing specialized, high-quality care to patients during critical moments. He also hopes for more opportunities to travel and work in different healthcare settings around the world, having gained so much from his clinical immersion experience in Guatemala.