A preceptor in nursing is an experienced licensed clinician who supervises nursing students during their clinical rotations. The preceptors role is to help students translate theoretical learning to clinical practice, bridge the gap between theoretical learning and clinical practice, and guide students in meeting clinical objectives and delivering safe and quality patient care. Preceptors are needed for all levels of nursing education, including bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, post-masters certificates, and doctoral degrees. Preceptors must have an unencumbered license to practice in the state where the preceptorship will take place and practice in a specialty directly related to the associated clinical rotation. They must also have the appropriate credentials and clinical competency, as well as enthusiasm for teaching and the ability to offer positive and negative feedback in a constructive way. Preceptors educate nursing students through observation and direct instruction, and students are given immediate feedback as well as more formal assessments in the form of written evaluations. Preceptors play a vital role in solving the nationwide nursing shortage by preparing aspiring nurses and providing mentorship to students.