Driven by heart and strengthened by family, mother–daughter team Amber Ritchie and Haley Kanzig completed the Practical Nursing program together at the Dayton campus. Their shared dedication to patient care proves that success is even more meaningful when the journey is taken together.
Amber Ritchie
I have always enjoyed taking care of people and working in health care. I worked at a family medicine practice as an MA for 10 years. Then, I got my STNA and now work in a long-term care facility.
A friend of mine who graduated from Hondros recommended the school to me. Self-discipline has been so important. I’ve had to miss out on some things in order to stay home and study but in the end, it is totally worth it. Being able to complete nursing school with my daughter has been a great experience, she has been my support and helped me through all of this.
To anyone thinking of becoming a nurse, just do it! Don't wait until everything is perfect because you will never do it. You just have to jump in and do it!
Haley Kanzig
I chose nursing because I wanted a career where compassion, skill, and purpose come together to make a real difference in people’s lives. I’m drawn to the hands-on that care nurses provide and the trust patients place in them during some of their most vulnerable moments. Making even the smallest difference in someone’s life is what makes it all worth it
I completed the PN program alongside my mother—an opportunity few people have. To chase my dream alongside my mom has been amazing. I had never heard of Hondros before enrolling; at first, it was the length of the programs that caught my attention. Looking back now, I’m glad I chose to go here, and plan to return for my RN as well! The Professors and Academic Support Advisors here have your best interest and have been nothing short of amazing, helping me prepare for NCLEX and feeling confident to get out in the nursing world!
I attribute my success in nursing school to my commitment, discipline, and resilience! If you're thinking about nursing school, JUST DO IT! Simply that. I had been contemplating starting school for so long and always just told myself, “next year” and this past year I just told myself, “Alright we’re doing it this year” and it’s been the best decision! So just do it! You won’t regret it in the end. Nursing school will be hard, and you may feel like you’re missing out—but staying focused on the end goal is what will get you through. It’s worth it! I’d say if you ever get the opportunity, take it. There’s no timeline to do what you want to do, remember that!
–Amber Ritchie & Haley Kanzig are graduates of the Practical Nursing at the Dayton campus.