Creating Connection Through Education: Jill W.’s Multi-Generational Impact
As the oldest of four children, Jill W. always felt like a natural caregiver.
“I just always felt like healthcare was my path,” she says. “We did career development in high school, and I can remember sticking an orange with a needle and thinking, ‘yep, this feels right.’”
After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2001, Jill spent 15 years in a float pool nursing position, caring for patients in every stage of life. During that time, she raised four children and waited until her youngest started kindergarten to pursue her master’s degree in nursing from Maryville University.
“I worked full-time as a night nurse while I was in school,” she shares. “I’d go straight from clinicals to work, come home, sleep for a few hours, help the kids with homework, then head back to work.”
The long hours and sacrifices served a larger purpose.
Learning Together: A Family Affair
Earning her doctorate has been meaningful in more ways than one.
“I wanted to get my doctorate for professional development and to stay relevant in my field, but more importantly, I thought it would be cool to be in school at the same time as my daughter and my stepdaughter,” says Jill.
Her eldest daughter is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, while her stepdaughter recently graduated with her nursing degree. Her youngest daughter also dreams of becoming a physician’s assistant.
“It was fun talking with them about our projects, teachers, grades — just sharing in all the little moments and challenges of school.”
Once all the degrees are complete, Jill has plans to celebrate in style.
“We’ll get a picture of all of us in our caps and gowns and throw a graduation party.”
Adapting to Online Learning
Though the DNP is Jill’s third degree, it’s the first one she completed online.
“The Maryville MSN program was really good, so I figured that the doctorate program would be equally good,” Jill says. “Online learning felt daunting at first, but I was excited — it’s one of those things where you just cross the bridge and figure it out as you go.”
While there were technical hurdles, Jill never felt like she was navigating them alone.
“I basically had the IT number on speed dial,” she laughs. “They’d even remote into my computer to help me out.”
Support didn’t stop there — her professors were just as responsive.
Looking Ahead: New Roles, Same Passion
The DNP has opened new possibilities, but Jill’s heart is still in the clinic.
“The program focuses on leadership skills and quality improvement initiatives,” she says. “Maybe one day I’ll move into a teaching or administrative role, but for now, I still really enjoy clinical work. There are a lot of new nurse practitioners working in my area whom I’m able to mentor.”
The DNP gave her a broader view of the nursing profession and its real-world impact.
“It has definitely afforded me a more comprehensive overview of the work that I do and the impact that nurse practitioners have on healthcare, on micro and macro levels, and in their communities throughout the United States.”
Jill’s story has already inspired at least three of her colleagues to return to school after hearing about her Maryville experience.
Advice for Future Students
Before enrolling, Jill carefully considered her options — and she encourages others to do the same.
“You need some pre-planning. Think about where you want your career to go,” she advises. “A PhD is more research-focused, while the DNP is broader. I knew I wanted something more comprehensive and practice-based.”
In May 2025, Jill walked across the graduation stage once again — this time with her husband, parents, and children cheering her on.