MARION (WSIL) -- Getting vaccines into the arms of thousands of people takes a group effort from various organizations, including local colleges.
We spoke to some John A. Logan College nursing students who are helping the public get their shots.
When asked what it's like to help administer vaccine, nursing instructor Mikeal Kos and her students from John A Logan say its a historic moment.
"This is just a perfect fit for them. They get an opportunity to work with the public and also to deliver vaccinations on a large scale," she said.
She says since January, at least 150 nursing students have been working
with Bi-County Health Department's mass vaccination site at the Pavilion, giving out at least 100-200 doses a day.
"It's impactful for me and also everyone coming through and getting the vaccine to see their excitement and their joy feeds back into what I'm doing and it makes me feel excited to be apart of something so huge," said RN student, Kayla Baker.
Another nursing student says her personal life motivates her to help others.
"I have an immune-compromised son so I am just so excited to be a part of this and to be able to get the vaccine out to as many individuals can get it and feel like I'm helping to make history happen here," said RN student, Sarah Davis.
The students say this real world experience has taught them many skills outside of the classroom.
"It really helps us work on communication with clients and being a part of this community effort…when are we going to have a pandemic again like this on a large scale? So it's historic," said RN student, Lee Perkins
Kos says students will rotate duties until April and says she's proud of their work.
"It's so rewarding to work with the public and to feel like we're part of the solution to end this pandemic," she said.
