Rita Parker  
Birmingham, AL
Indiana State University, LVN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Rita Parker has been a LPN for 30 years. “Nursing was just something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said.

With changes in healthcare, Rita recognized that she needed to further her education to be successful in a hospital nursing career. “I wanted to better my education and advance my career. Hospitals are doing away with LPNs. I don’t think I’d do well in nursing homes. Also, my husband and I are looking into moving, so I need my RN to get a new job in a hospital,” she said.

A friend introduced her to The College Network® and Rita signed up for the LPN to Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing program through Indiana State University. Distance learning was difficult for Rita in the beginning, but she soon recognized what she needed to do to be successful. “It took me a while to get used to studying this way. So, I went above and beyond and got additional resources to feel fully prepared. I found out that if you study hard, the tests aren’t nearly as difficult,” she said.

Although distance learning isn’t always easy, Rita appreciates the flexibility. “I can do all of my classes online and not have to take off work to attend a class. I can study and take exams on my own time and nobody hassles me about any of it,” she said.

When asked what advice she had for other students, Rita simply said, “Study. I take my study materials everywhere, but I have to set a certain time to study with no interruptions. On my off days, I study for about three to four hours at home. That and a lot of prayer help me get through studying.”

Rita is now in the RN program at Indiana State University. She hopes to go on to get her MSN with the help of The College Network. “I feel that I am learning more now than I did right out of high school. I have more respect for what I learn.”

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