Tanya Jacobs
I was a CNA for 13 years when I decided to go back to school for my LPN.
I鈥檝e worked in many places as an agency nurse, but it wasn't until I was hired as a Director of Healthcare that I realized I wanted to do more than that. I wanted a degree that would back up my important title and make me the best nurse possible, so I decided to attend classes at Herzing.
As a single parent, one of my biggest challenges was time management. I was working full-time, attending school full-time, and also homeschooling my son. I didn鈥檛 have much time, and I had to work hard to make everything fit into place.
Thankfully, Herzing鈥檚 staff were very friendly and helpful from the beginning. They genuinely cared about my success and mental health and always guided me in the right direction. They showed me how to use the tools I had on hand to find success and would always encourage me to keep a positive attitude. They were always available for advice or to go over the content I did not understand!
I think that all my classes and clinical experiences were valuable to my education. It was a unique experience doing my clinicals via a simulation due to COVID restrictions at the time. While it certainly had its challenges, I know that overcoming obstacles is a part of the job. In a way, it helped remind me that I would always be learning to problem-solve once in the real world as a nurse.
I knew that it wouldn鈥檛 be an easy journey, but through this experience, I learned that I am a stronger person than I used to give myself credit for!
Currently, I plan to schedule and take my boards within the next 3 weeks. There are quite a few opportunities in Arizona, and I鈥檓 excited to be able to start applying.
Anything worthwhile requires hard work. To anyone looking to attend this program, I would say it鈥檚 worth it, and don't ever give up on your dreams! I鈥檓 proud to be a Herzing student and graduate, and I recommend that all my CNAs and nursing staff go to Herzing!
