By: Erik Pedersen, Content Strategy Director
BALTIMORE – Lydia Evans had her sights set on becoming a physician’s assistant during her time as an undergraduate. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biology with a pre-med focus from Virginia Union University in Richmond, and was quickly accepted into a PA program after graduation.
That program, however, lost its accreditation soon afterwards, which delayed and ultimately changed her post-graduate career plans. Evans took a job as a medical assistant at a Patient First urgent care center, where she met colleagues who were working towards becoming nurse practitioners.
Interest in pursuing that path for herself drew Evans to Notre Dame of Maryland University’s Accelerated 2nd Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program. Fifteen months later, Evans and her fellow ABSN graduates are set to be recognized in a pinning ceremony at LeClerc Theatre this Friday afternoon.
Learn more about Evans’ path to NDMU, her experiences in the ABSN program, and her future career goals below:
What healthcare roles have you held since earning your first bachelor’s degree?
I’ve worked as a medical assistant at Patient First for the last five years, and I’ve also been involved in a mentoring program there. Three years ago, I additionally started working as a medical assistant at a pediatric dental surgery center.
What was it that originally inspired you to work in healthcare?
I helped out my grandmother a lot after she got sick. She passed away in 2016 after I had graduated from Virginia Union. As I was taking care of her, it occurred to me that I could see myself doing this for others as well. Working in a role where I could be there for people during their toughest moments.
When did you decide to go back to school and work towards your ABSN degree?
During my time at Patient First, I’ve worked with several nurses who were enrolled in nurse practitioner programs. They knew that I had previously wanted to go to PA school, and they helped me realize that I could do a lot of the same things as a nurse practitioner, working 1-on-1 with patients and having an opportunity to make a real difference in their lives. I started looking up how to become a nurse practitioner, and the first step was going back to school for my BSN.
How did you first hear about Notre Dame, and what made you decide to enroll in NDMU’s ABSN program?
I learned about Notre Dame through another colleague at Patient First. Her daughter had attended pharmacy school here, and she had really enjoyed the experience. I started researching the ABSN program, and I loved their core values. The emphasis on caring science and having compassion for patients really stood out for me to compared to other schools I applied for. That’s the kind of nurse I wanted to be. I could just see myself here – it seemed like a great fit.
Have you enjoyed your experience in the ABSN program? Do you feel like it’s given you the skills and knowledge needed to succeed after graduation?
Absolutely. I had wonderful clinical instructors – they really boosted my confidence, especially in regards to patient care. They’ve helped me convince myself that I have the knowledge and capability to excel, and I feel like they bring that out of everyone.
I never felt that I couldn’t reach out to my instructors with any question I might have. They welcomed me with open arms, and they gave a lot of insight on their own experiences which helped get them to where they are today. That assisted and motivated me throughout the process.
What aspects of the accelerated, hybrid program appealed to you?
The hybrid nature of the program was extremely beneficial for me. I still had to work throughout my time as a student. I continued working part-time at the dental surgery center, and I work at Patient First on the weekends. The ability to complete my NDMU requirements at my own pace, while working around my job schedules, helped me out tremendously.
Are there any top memories that stand out from your time here?
All of the simulations that I took part in were great. They created countless scenarios, helping me figure out what to do in certain situations and learn what to look out for. The simulations were my favorite part of the program – they really boosted my critical thinking skills.
What are your current plans for after graduation?
I’m planning to get one or two years of professional experience before going right back to school to become a nurse practitioner. I’m hoping to get a job working in an emergency department – that’s where I want to specialize. I like the fast pace in the ED where you’re that first stop for somebody who is in critical care.
Established in 1895, Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU) is a private, Catholic institution in Baltimore, Maryland, with the mission to educate leaders to transform the world. Notre Dame has been named one of the best "Regional Universities North" by U.S. News & World Report.
