Learn how MUSC’s Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) program prepares future certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) for leadership, networking, and professional development opportunities:
Explore the Anesthesia for Nurses (AFN) program.
When Alec Silva, an AFN student earning his Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice degree, was chosen to represent the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) at the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) Annual Congress College Bowl, it became a defining moment in his educational journey. From competing on a national stage to networking with practicing CRNAs and students from across the country, Alec’s experience shows how MUSC’s AFN program builds confidence, clinical competence, and professional readiness.
We asked Alec to share his experience—why he chose MUSC, what it was like to participate in the College Bowl, and how opportunities outside the classroom are shaping him into a future leader.
What drew you to the AFN program at MUSC?
“I was really drawn to MUSC because of its reputation as a top-ranked CRNA program and the variety of clinical sites we get to rotate through. I also liked that it’s a medical university and loved the idea of being surrounded by other health care professionals. And of course, Charleston is a beautiful city to live in.”
Can you share what it was like participating in the College Bowl at the AANA Annual Congress?
“The College Bowl was honestly pretty nerve-racking, but it ended up being a lot of fun. Competing against other regions on a national stage was a great experience. It was exciting to represent MUSC with my classmate and friend, Derek. I would encourage every student to attend the AANA College Bowl because it’s a fun way to challenge yourself and meet people from other programs.”
How has the AFN program prepared you to engage in professional conferences and networking opportunities?
“The AFN program has helped me feel more comfortable talking to people in a professional setting and putting myself out there. We get a lot of practice presenting and collaborating, which prepares us to talk with CRNAs. The faculty also push us to show up to events and connect with CRNAs and students from other programs.”
What’s one experience outside the classroom that's had an impact on your growth as a student?
“Starting clinicals has probably been the biggest impact so far. It’s exciting getting to use what we learned, but it’s also tough because you're trying to remember everything while learning new skills. Every day in clinical teaches you something new that you can carry with you when you’re practicing on your own. Clinicals are very challenging but are also very rewarding.”
How do you think the AFN program helps students stand out in their future careers?
“MUSC has a reputation for putting out strong CRNAs, and I think that comes from high expectations at the start. The program picks great candidates and then they keep pushing us to grow academically and clinically. We learn how to work hard in this program and because of that, MUSC grads are known for being well-prepared.”
Do you have any advice for current or future AFN students who want to make the most of professional development opportunities?
“Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and make connections. The more you put yourself out there, the more opportunities you’ll find. Go to as many events, meet-and-greets, and conferences as you can. I have been told multiple times that the CRNA world is small and the people you meet now might show up again later in your career.”
Alec’s experience reminds us that professional growth doesn’t happen by accident—it happens when students are encouraged to show up, connect, and rise to new challenges.
Discover how MUSC’s AFN program empowers students to succeed:
Katie Ennis
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