With a longtime love for the outdoors, and an interest in the medical field, Ashcom was destined for a future in nursing.

He attended The Science and Technology Magnet High School of Southeastern Connecticut, where he pursued biomedical science with a focus in sports medicine. He credits his mother for sparking his passion for helping others.

“My mother is the sole social worker in our small town, and through her, I saw firsthand the value of showing up for others,” said Ashcom.

By his third year, still unsure about which specific path in nursing he would take, he felt inclined to get more involved on campus through community engagement, which led to finding a partner rooted in the same values.

“Late-night study sessions turned into deep conversations about how we could make a difference in our communities — mine in Lebanon, Connecticut, and hers in Lebanon, New Hampshire, ironic,” said Ashcom. “Throughout the semesters and summers, we brought our ideas to life.”

The two began developing a nonprofit, which started as a 90-second elevator pitch and turned into a real-life tangible organization, with plans to be officially launched by next year.

“This drive to improve aspects of the program and our communities, not just for ourselves but for others, is what I believe made us strong students and even stronger future nurses,” said Ashcom.

Their nonprofit based in New Hampshire, "The Young at Heart Social Club" is dedicated to helping older adults combat loneliness and isolation. It centers on community engagement and building intergenerational relationships through programs like “Adopt-a-Grandparent” and “Student-Home-Host” for Dartmouth College students.

Hines shared the deeply personal inspiration for the nonprofit.

“The idea for this organization came from an elderly behavioral health patient in my clinical rotation who said 'I just feel like if I had a friend I wouldn’t be here,'" said Hines. “I wish there were a Lonely Hearts Club for people like us. I promised her I would work to create this dream.”

The demanding coursework required for success in nursing is challenging on its own, but balancing that with the complexities of a relationship is even more impressive.

For Ashcom and Hines, they remain thankful and appreciative of each other’s support throughout nursing school.

“Our relationship empowers us to support other nursing students since we succeed by helping each other,” said Hines. “Progressing through the nursing program is difficult, and I hope those that don’t have a partner in the field recognize that it’s okay to prioritize school."

Ashcom and Hines both emphasize the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone to grow personally and professionally.

“I realized none of my growth at Quinnipiac happened inside my comfort zone,” said Ashcom. “The opportunities I sought and the risks I took brought me here, to an organization that represents practically everything I value: community-centered care, love for the outdoors, and a commitment to innovation and lifelong learning."

“Career opportunities, academic obligations, and strong relationships will never disappear, but your personal quality of life is fragile and deserving of compassion both throughout nursing school and at the bedside," said Hines. "Nursing school — and the profession itself — are grueling and at times unbearable, but friends, family, and partners who truly care about you will stick around."

"I am grateful that Jack understands this and encourages me to channel my ambition to chase my dreams,” she said.

Looking to the future, the pair plans to better the community through their nonprofit and their hard work and determination at DHMC. Ashcom plans to join Dartmouth-Hitchcock in the newly renovated Heart Vascular Unit alongside Hines.