There were many factors that influenced my decision to pursue nursing. My life became a perfect storm, and when this storm cleared it was time for a change. I got my associate degree in accounting almost 20 years ago and then worked in finance. Helping people from behind a keyboard wasn't enough anymore. Then my brother passed away in 2002 from a tumor in his brain stem. My sister passed away from complications of Influenza B in 2017. Then, my oldest son passed away in 2018 at 24 years old. He struggled with addiction and mental health. He never got treatment and self-medicated. I became a nurse for my brother, sister, and son. It goes way beyond that now. I am a nurse for anyone who needs it. Furthermore, I am a patient advocate and I'm proud to wear that badge. My new purpose is to be the best nurse that I can be.
I'm 48 years old, and when I was 46 years old I started the LPN program at Hondros College of Nursing. I'm an older student and want as many years as possible working as a nurse. I plan to work well into my 70s if I can. I liked the fact that I could become an RN in just over 2 years. Hondros was also on the approved list of nursing colleges for the ProMedica Diversity Scholarship, of which I am a recipient. Seemed like a no-brainer to me.
To those considering nursing, be prepared to commit. The way I see it, it's a short-term sacrifice for a long-term gain.
Erica Moser is a student in the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at our Maumee campus.