This case study describes an educational research project involving 22 nursing students as participants. The focus of the research was to explore students' perceptions and experiences of undertaking an objective structured clinical examination during semester 1 (Year 1) of their undergraduate BSc (Hons) Nursing program. The research team will provide focus on research design, the sampling process, and conducting focus group discussions using personal reflections having completed the project. The case study will also highlight feasibility issues of engaging students in academic research. We conclude the case study with a list of lessons or factors that one ought to be mindful of when designing, recruiting, and engaging student participants in a qualitative research study within an academic setting
