A Journey of Heart: Amanda Becomes RN with a Mission to Care

For Amanda, becoming a nurse wasn't just a career choice; it was a calling sparked by family, nurtured by friendship, and shaped through dedication. As a recent graduate of Northeastern Technical College's Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) program, Amanda's journey reflects the power of perseverance, community, and compassion in the world of healthcare.

Inspired from the Start

Amanda's nursing aspirations began early, thanks to her older sister. "She was eight years older than me and went into nursing in high school. She inspired me to become a labor and delivery nurse," Amanda shared. "I wanted to work with kids, and teaching or daycare didn't pay much. Nursing felt like the perfect path."

Her sister, who also attended NETC for a different degree, helped Amanda envision a future in healthcare. That support, coupled with Amanda's dual enrollment experience at NETC, made the college an easy choice for both her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

The Unexpected Push Toward LPN

While working at Walmart, Amanda met a NETC LPN graduate who explained how the year-long program could fast-track her into the workforce. "She told me I could take the NCLEX, start working, and then pursue my RN while gaining experience," Amanda said. "I loved the idea."

That pathway, from LPN to RN, turned out to be not only practical but also empowering.

Seamless Transition, Supportive Environment

Amanda described the shift from LPN to ADN as "really sweet." Thanks to a new NETC policy, students who passed the NCLEX on their first attempt received automatic admission into the ADN transition program. "It felt just like the LPN program, same supportive environment, familiar faces, and instructors who really care."

Friendship Forged in Classrooms and Clinicals

One of Amanda's most meaningful experiences was her friendship with fellow nursing student Kayleigh Thompson. "We met on the first day of LPN classes. I was nervous, and she sat beside me and started making jokes. We clicked instantly."

Interestingly, Amanda and Kayleigh had unknowingly been rivals before friends. Both played in competing high school marching bands. "We used to perform at the same district events. It's funny to think about now."

Their bond helped carry them through the challenges of nursing school. "We studied together constantly, even shouting facts from PowerPoints on the phone during our morning drives. It was ridiculous, but it helped."

They also shared clinical rotations, decompressing after long shifts and supporting one another every step of the way. "Having someone who gets it, that made all the difference."

Lessons in Balance and Growth

Nursing school wasn't without its struggles. For Amanda, time management was the toughest challenge. "There's so much to juggle, assignments, clinicals, preceptorships. You just take it day by day and figure it out on the fly."

Despite the workload, Amanda thrived. "I'm proud of getting my degree and securing a job right away at Wilson Senior Care. I've been there for over a year now."

She credits her instructors, particularly Ms. Patrick and Ms. Pigg, for helping her grow into the nurse she is today. "They're amazing educators and storytellers. I remember lessons not from textbooks, but from their real-life experiences."

Looking Ahead: A Dream in Pediatrics

With her RN license, Amanda plans to stay at Wilson Senior Care temporarily before moving to Florence to pursue a role at McLeod Health. Her ultimate goal? Pediatric care.

"I've always wanted to help kids," she said. "McLeod has a pediatric floor and a NICU. I want to do it all."

Growing Into Her Voice

Amanda's journey through the nursing program didn't just shape her professionally. It changed her personally.

"I'm not the same person I was when I started. The program teaches you how to communicate with patients, families, and classmates, and that helped me come out of my shell. I'm more confident, more understanding."

Kayleigh and other classmates encouraged her every step of the way. Another fellow student, Emily Allison, became a close friend as well. "All of my classmates were amazing. I didn't have any issues with anyone."

A Message for Future Nurses

Amanda is quick to recommend NETC's nursing program. "I've convinced several coworkers to enroll. NETC really prepares you, and after hearing others' experiences at different schools, I know we had something special."

Her advice for future students? "Don't stress too much. It will work out. If you need help, ask. The faculty are always there for you."

Full Circle

Reflecting on her time at NETC, Amanda doesn't hesitate. "It was one of the best things I've ever done. I owe it all to NETC and my classmates. They made it amazing."

From a spark of inspiration to a future full of promise, Amanda's story is a testament to what happens when heart, determination, and community come together to build not just a career, but a calling.

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