Assistant Director of Student Financial Services
What inspired you to choose your career path?
I chose a career in higher education because I enjoy being part of a student's educational journey. I am a firm believer that we can never stop learning and growing as individuals, and I am happy to assist those students who choose to seek out a college degree and better position themself in this world. Working with students and their families to finance their education is a passion of mine. I know how sensitive every individual's financial circumstance may be and that they may not know about all the opportunities to bring down their expenses.
A college degree is achievable with well-earned scholarship and grant opportunities. I was a first-generation, Appalachia student whose dream was to go to college and leave my hometown. My parents were both working class Ohioans with 7 children and there was not a single day that they let us see them panic. They continued to work through financial struggles and shine for us every single day. I still remember the day that I received my college offer letter and feeling both excited and anxious about how I was going to cover my expenses. I had a wonderful experience working with financial aid staff to achieve my goals both academically and financially. This was an important relationship to have as my parents still had children at home to take care of. They did everything they could, financially, to get me where I wanted to be, but I had a lot of weight to pull myself.
Going through the financial aid process myself makes me both appreciate the student experience and the interactions they have working with a professional staff. The people I work with in higher education are a very special group of selfless individuals. Serving in this position is truly a gratifying career and I cannot wait to see my first class of Nightingales walk across that stage in May!
What is the best thing about Mount Carmel College of Nursing?
The smiles I see from students in the hallways and lobbies heading to class or relaxing between sessions. They are all so excited to be here and it makes me excited to work with them.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Be humble and kind. You never know what someone is dealing with apart from the interaction they are having with you. They have sought you out for a purpose.
What advice would you give to a prospective MCCN student?
No matter what comes your way, it is still possible to achieve your goals.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in nursing?
Ask questions, get answers, and never stop trying to find a way to earn your nursing degree. If this is what you want, MCCN faculty and staff will help you make it happen. We are here because you are here!