Mela Dee Woodard
Paris, Texas
Excelsior College®, Associate of Science in Nursing

For Mela Dee Woodard, the decision to pursue her online RN degree through Excelsior College was a necessary step to continue her career in nursing. “As I get older, I am not as physically able as I was, and as an RN there are many more administrative or office jobs that will be available to me,” she said.

Mela Dee admits that she had some uncertainty about going back to school as an adult. “My only real fear was that I wouldn’t be able to learn on my own without the benefits of classroom instruction, but that has not been a problem,” she explained. “I think I’m better able to manage time and motivate myself.”

Mela Dee says she has a strict study plan that helps her get through each course. “I have a daily plan. I work all day, come home and study for an hour or so, then eat and enjoy the rest of my evening. Depending on what my weekend activities are, I study one to two hours each day. That allows me the freedom to skip a day when I need to for things that come up.”

When it came time to take her first exam, Mela Dee was very nervous. “I was terrified! It was the first test I had taken in 18 years. Now that I have taken several tests, I feel confident that I can pass,” she said.

Mela Dee said that she enjoyed being back in school. “I have always enjoyed expanding my knowledge base. I enjoy the challenge and new information.” She credits her desire to enhance her knowledge, along with The College Network®’s unique financing program, with helping her be successful in her online program.

“I liked the financial support with the financing of materials and test fees. Having a set payment each month is the only way I would ever be able to pay for this,” she explained.

Mela Dee is looking forward to improving her life with her RN degree. She is most excited to increase her salary and have a wider range of job opportunities.

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