Perhaps you've read, heard, or even repeated an unfavorable stereotype associated with the millennial generation. If so, you ought to have attended the National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA) 66th Annual Convention earlier this month to see the abundance of palpable energy within the walls of the exhibit hall. Thousands of eager nursing students poured into the exhibit hall excited, exuberant, and curious to absorb everything that surrounded them.

At our Lippincott NursingCenter booth, nursing students asked a multitude of thoughtful questions and shared the areas of practice they want to pursue with pride. The anticipation to transition from an aspiring to practicing nurse was apparent and inspiring. The volume of the event was reason enough to believe that the nursing workforce will continue to be one of the most respected, ethical, and in-demand professions.

What also was evident was the appreciation these promising nursing students held towards their nursing professors and mentors. Many of those who stopped by our booth attributed their knowledge and passion to teachers who inspired them. There's no question that the bar is set high and the shoes are big to fill, but the undeniable enthusiasm to make an impact and have a meaningful career will enable these nursing students to fulfill the roles of those they admire.

Though there might be generational gaps, one thing that remains constant across generations is the commitment to excellence and continuous learning to ultimately provide optimal patient care. Being active members of the National Student Nurses' Association and attending the convention are both emblematic of going the extra mile, which is an imperative practice in the nursing profession. Going the extra mile and maintaining a patient-first mindset are key characteristics that unite nurses of all generations. Nursing is a profession that is driven by passion, and from the looks of NSNA 2018, the future of nursing is in capable and eager hands.