From Single Mom to Registered Nurse: Maria Santos's LCC Journey

When Maria Santos enrolled at Lakeview Community College four years ago, she was a single mother of two working part-time as a home health aide. Today, she is a registered nurse at Springfield Memorial Hospital, earning three times her previous salary and building a career she is passionate about.

Overcoming Challenges

Maria's path was not easy. Balancing coursework, clinical rotations, and parenting required careful planning and support. LCC's childcare center, flexible scheduling, and financial aid office were critical to her success.

'The nursing faculty at LCC truly cared about me as a person, not just a student,' Maria says. 'When I was struggling, they helped me find resources I did not know existed. I could not have done this without their support.'

Advice for Future Students

Maria's advice to prospective students: 'Do not let your circumstances define your future. LCC gave me the tools and the confidence to change my life. If I can do it, anyone can.'