“I was drawn to nursing because of our healthcare journey.  My husband and I are parents to three surviving quadruplets born at 26 weeks.  After spending 100 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and receiving amazing care, I felt becoming a nurse was a way to pay it forward,” said Marie Uzarski, KCON Second Degree alumna. 

KCON’s Second Degree BSN program is for individuals who earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in another major from an accredited college or university and wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.  Students completed the general education program requirements for KCON’s BSN program within their first degree and typically finish their BSN in 15 months of full-time study. 

“Going back to school as nontraditional student was definitely a different experience than when I earned my first degree right after high school.  Although the path was more challenging, I was more driven and focused to succeed,” shared Uzarski.

Uzarski is grateful for KCON assistant professor, Barb Hooper, who provided consistent support and advice throughout her time in the program.  Through mentoring, resume development and mock interviews, Hooper helps students gain the confidence they need to stand out among applicants for nursing positions.

“KCON’s second degree nursing program can be challenging and many of the students, like Marie, have significant family and work demands.  Mentoring and encouraging students throughout the program is my way of sharing my passion for nursing. I consider myself lucky to be a part of their educational journey,” shared Hooper. 

After graduating, Uzarski began working as a pediatric nurse at a children’s hospital.

“One of the greatest gifts of a nursing career is the ability to find your niche and grow from there.  I feel a great sense of pride as a Laker Nurse for a Lifetime,” said Uzarski. 

For more information on KCON’s Second Degree BSN Program, please visit https://www.gvsu.edu/kcon/baccalaureate-program-for-second-degree-students-283.htm.