Student LaToya Huddleston with her 'support system'

Lakeland Community College nursing students who are members of the Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society traditionally take part in a community service project each year.

But with the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing in practice, they needed to come up with a way to provide "service" a little differently this year.

Because of the physical distancing limitations, they decided to go on camera, open up and get personal about being a nursing student. By sharing fears and successes, they aim to provide encouragement to others to not give up.

"I was a little older, so I was concerned about that," said Mentor resident LaToya Huddleston pictured with her support system, aka, her husband and children. "You come in and you're just nervous...but you can do it, you got this."

Another student gave tips for success, in particular, to take breaks. "Enjoy nature, and find that focus," said Thomas Gallagher of Mentor. "Put the time in and it will pay off."

"Although the students made videos for future nursing students, the message is universal and applies to all of us, to keep going and stay strong to reach your goals and dreams," said Dr. Connie Bowler, nursing program director at Lakeland.

Valerie Hanks of Concord Township shared her perspective as an older student hoping to serve as a role model for other moms thinking about going back to school. "After my kids grew up, I decided I was going to go back to college. It's not impossible – I got in!"

With Lakeland's nursing program spanning four semesters, it can take its toll but Chardon resident Marcus Mytro, who works full time and goes to school full time, wanted to encourage and support others in similar situations. "We made this video to tell some of the new students coming in, and to remind some of the current students, not to give up."

Click on the link below to view the video.

By: Jessica Novak