It’s nearly time for Aspen’s 2024 Commencement Ceremony! Joining the ranks of Aspen graduates this year is Laurie Benson, who is slated to complete her Master of Science in Nursing this winter. She has provided her story as well as some highly encouraging words of affirmation, which we are excited to share with you today!
My educational journey is unique and has brought me to the end of my master’s program in nursing with a specialization in forensic nursing at Aspen University. This is the story of a girl who never considered nursing as a prospective profession for herself. Now, it is my second career and my favorite.
I initially went to college for mass communications but left to get married. Twelve years and two children later, in 2003, I graduated from nursing school with an associate’s degree. For many years I was made to believe that I was not good enough or smart enough. Often, I was berated and belittled. Although those years of humiliation, poor self-esteem, and reproach were far behind me, I was still left with a mediocre self-image and decreased confidence. However, my path in the course of life changed for the better. With the support and encouragement of my faith in God, my wonderful current husband (of six years), my daddy (a two-time cancer survivor), his wife, my two adult boys, and other family and friends, I not only completed my bachelor’s degree at 50 years old, but I am now finishing my master’s at 52; 21 and a half years after graduating with my associate’s!
Aspen’s mission is to provide motivated, college-worthy students with a high-quality, responsibly priced education. Did Aspen do that for me? Absolutely! The tuition rates are fair, and Aspen offers a reasonable monthly payment plan, in addition to a qualifying reduced tuition rate because of an agreement with the hospital I work at. What is even better about Aspen University is that the instructors, my advisor, and those in the Office of Field Experience have all been encouraging, professional, helpful, and respectful. The staff I have encountered have reached out with answers to my many questions in a very timely manner, without making me feel inadequate. I have had the impression that the professors have all wanted to challenge me and see me succeed. The online courses have prepared me to further my career in forensic nursing, moving forward to becoming a candidate for coroner in my county election this November.
The twists and turns in the road of life have led to change and growth. When I applied to Aspen University for my master’s degree, I had something to prove to myself. I wanted to make myself believe that I am worthy. I am good enough. I am smart enough. I now know that I AM all those things that for so many years, I never thought I was.
I want to congratulate every single one of my fellow graduates. We did it! Furthermore, I want my fellow students to know that you are also good enough and smart enough. Know your worth. Keep your eye on the future. Don’t give up. Don’t quit. Don’t settle. Keep believing in yourself. I challenge you to reach for the sky and know your potential. Don’t let anyone tell you differently; the sky’s the limit!
Laurie’s story speaks to the strength of believing in yourself to achieve academic success. It also serves as another example that it’s never too late to return to college, pursue your passion, change your career, and transform your life. Congratulations, Laurie!
A graduate degree could empower you to make a transition in your life. If you’re considering it, see if one of Aspen’s programs would be a good fit for you!