Achieving more in nursing for his family – and the world
Elijah K. is driven by the urge to help build a better world.
It’s a passion he’s nurtured his whole life. Now, as a working nurse and father, he knows he’s positioned to make a real difference.
But despite his busy schedule, he’s motivated by a higher power and a keen sense of purpose to press forward and earn his online DNP.
“I am inspired by my faith in God to continue learning — for knowledge and wisdom and to provide for my family,” Elijah shares. “I aspire to be the best nurse I can be to benefit my family and society.”
During his time as a nurse, Elijah recalls meeting mentors and leaders who motivated him to push further and do more. They also inspired an interest in Maryville University: Many of his colleagues for whom he had deep respect were graduates of Maryville’s nursing programs.
“I felt interested in Maryville because of the alumni,” he says. “They are successful, and I want to be, too.”
He also hopes to pay it forward by inspiring the next generation of nurses, the same way the leaders he encountered inspired him.
Thinking about his plans post-graduation, Elijah says, “I will lead patient care and teach the younger generation.”
Support in every situation
While earning a nursing degree is an incredible accomplishment, Elijah knows the online learning experience isn’t an individual journey — and he’s felt supported by Maryville every step of the way.
“Having help from others is essential,” he says. “This is a team project.”
Elijah was particularly drawn to Maryville’s online DNP program because of the promise of dedicated support from a student success advisor.
“The big thing is knowing I have an advisor who will stick with me through the journey,” he says.
Dreams become reality
While Elijah says the process has been “a challenge every day,” he is confident in his ability to complete his program and start bettering society. The meaning he finds in his work only makes him more confident in his life path.
“After my first year in nursing, I learned that I made a good career decision. The rest is a work in progress,” he says. “The important thing is to finish dreaming, and to make an effort to actually do it.”
But Elijah also knows he’s responsible for building the future he wants — for his family, his career, and his field. It calls to mind an old saying that inspires Elijah as he contemplates how he’ll work to mentor the next generation of nursing leaders.
It’s an old slogan he remembers from the Boy Scouts: “If it is to be, it is up to me.”
If you’re ready to see how Maryville Online can help you be brave and pursue your educational and professional goals, we’re here for you. Check out our online bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorate degrees, or schedule a call with an advisor today.