Twenty-two years ago I decided to go back to school. Yep, you heard me. I was seventeen with a grade 10 education and a baby on the way.
I always knew I wanted a career, but with an unplanned pregnancy, my plans for college had to wait until the time was right. So, I committed to being a mom and I promised myself that once my child was an adult that I would reach my goal, go to college and have the career that I always wanted.
And so, here I am, a graduate of the Practical Nursing program. But getting here wasn’t easy. I went back to high school after I had my son and got my Dogwood diploma. About 6 years ago I started upgrading my high school sciences. It wasn’t easy – nothing really worth it ever is! I was divorced, a mom with two children, two jobs and a goal.
I know my children are proud of me. They saw me cry when the stress of it all seemed to be too much and encouraged me to keep going. And I believe that they learned a valuable lesson right along with me – don’t stop until your dreams come true. And since you are reading this I assume that you have a dream too.
Through the Practical Nurse program, I have discovered so many new friends, support systems and most of all a sense of pride in myself for keeping the promise I made over two decades ago. I have reached my goal, am working as a nurse and I am loving it.
Maya Angelou said this: ‘I’ve learned that making a ‘living’ is not the same thing as ‘making a life.’ Good luck on your journey – it is worth it!
Li D.
Practical Nursing Program
