July 12, 2024
Flexibility was key for LPN and RN graduate Kristina Davidson
Today’s nursing shortage requires skilled, compassionate workers who can provide empathetic care to every patient.
When JCCC graduate Kristina Davidson decided to return to school, she knew she wanted to use her talents to meet this growing demand.
Pursuing higher education wouldn’t be easy. Kristina had already endured a series of hardships. She was a single mother and had just lost her own mom, who was her last living parent.
“I had a really rough realization that I was on my own,” she said. “I knew if I went back to school, I had to really give it my all and find something that would best fit my needs and schedule.”
Kristina had always wanted to enter the nursing field. She adored her high school science classes and was moved by the experienced nurses who helped her when she had her son. Now she just had to decide on a school.
JCCC caught her attention. Kristina liked the affordability and online class offerings, so she began taking prerequisites with the goal of enrolling in the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program.
JCCC’s online classes give you the flexibility you need
When Kristina returned to school, she was also working night shift as a CNA and serving tables in restaurants. JCCC’s online classes were key to her academic success.
“Online courses fit best for my schedule,” she said. “I appreciated that I could log on at 1 a.m. to start an assignment. I sacrificed a lot of sleep to get through courses as time went by!”
Once her prerequisites were completed, it was time to start nursing school.
JCCC’s scholarships make your nursing dreams possible
With help from the friendly faces at the JCCC Financial Aid office, Kristina qualified for several JCCC scholarships and Pell Grants, allowing her to focus on her LPN program coursework.
“Everyone at the Financial Aid office was so helpful,” said Kristina. “I wouldn't be here today without them.”
After earning her LPN, Kristina decided to take her education further and enrolled in JCCC’s LPN to Registered Nurse Bridge program. Having already earned her LPN, Kristina was able to bypass the first year of classes and graduate as a Registered Nurse in only a year.
JCCC helps you give back
Now working as a travel nurse, Kristina is eager to share her story with others. She recently self-published a book about her experiences, and hopes it inspires others to pursue triumph after tragedy.
Her advice to incoming Cavaliers? Never give up.
“One day you will be able to look back and see the hard work you committed to and through,” she said. “I am proud to be a JCCC alumni, one day you can be too!”
Kristina continues to dream big and wants to give back to the JCCC community.
“I am hoping one day I can have a scholarship in my name to help someone like me in their own journey,” she said. “I would love the opportunity to help in whatever way I can.”
JCCC supports you!
Your academic dreams start here. Our low tuition rates, flexible courses, and helpful resources like FREE tutoring put you on the path to success.
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