Stories: Jennifer Wright, A.A.S. (ADN), RN

“I took some prerequisite courses at Dallas College and then started the Vocational Nursing program in 2004. I had thought of going straight into the LVN to RN ‘Bridge’ program there, but I didn’t have the required A in math.

“So I started the VN program and finished it in 12 months, then worked as a medical/surgical vocational nurse at Medical Center of Lancaster.

“I went back and went through the LVN to RN ‘Bridge’ program, so now I’m a registered nurse. I’m pretty sure I was accepted into Parkland’s Emergency Nursing Residency program because of my previous experience as an LVN; having that experience really helped.

“Working as a vocational nurse, I really got my feet wet in nursing. The VN program was a stepping stone for me to become a registered nurse. The best part was the incredible amount of knowledge that they taught us both in the classroom and in our clinical rotations. I had most of my clinicals with Una Gordon, and she was just excellent — always open to answering questions. They taught us everything we needed to know so that we can take care of patients properly.

“I would definitely recommend the nursing programs at Dallas College. The VN program is great because, with a 12-month program, you can take classes and start working in a year. They also teach you everything you need to know to pass your boards; there was even a special review class to help us prepare. “

The VN program was always really well structured, too. The way it was set up, the first day they let us know what was due and when, and what would be expected of us, so we could prepare for it. Being a single mom, it was good to know when I would have a big project or exam due so I could start preparing for it in advance.”

Jennifer Wright earned a Vocational Nursing certificate, worked as a licensed vocational nurse and then returned to follow the LVN to RN “Bridge” program to become a registered nurse. She worked as a caregiver to the elderly during evenings while working toward her VN certificate. After earning her RN certification, she was accepted to Parkland Hospital’s prestigious Emergency Nursing Residency Program for a four-month residency.

Myriah Stevens

Radiologic Technologist Parkland Memorial Hospital of Dallas

“When a patient who is in pain, upset or nervous tells you that you made them feel better or just simply tells you 'thank you' with a smile, it makes your hard work worth it. That is the reason I am in this field, and that is what will keep me in it forever.”

Radiologic Sciences

Kristy Sweeney, RDCS

Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer, UT Southwestern University Hospitals, and Adjunct Faculty, El Centro Diagnostic Medical Sonography

“My experience at El Centro was wonderful. The program included online classes plus clinicals three or four days a week. We had the flexibility to do our homework at our own convenience, either doing a little every night or doing it all over the weekend, whatever worked best for us.”

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Sarah Taylor, A.A.S. (ADN), RN

Registered Nurse, Adult Oncology Unit Medical City Dallas

“The best part of my education was the nursing staff. They are just so caring and supportive. They’re there to make sure you get all of the help and support you need. The most important thing I learned is that you’re never too old to set a goal and achieve it.”

Nursing

Shawn Terry, B.A., RRT, RCP

Respiratory Care Practitioner, Parkland Health and Hospital System Adjunct Faculty, El Centro Respiratory Care Program

“Respiratory therapists are not just technicians trained to deliver treatments and therapies with different types of equipment. We have to truly comprehend a wide range of topics and how they relate to a patient’s condition.”

Respiratory Care Program

Jennifer Wright, A.A.S. (ADN), RN
Registered Nurse Parkland Hospital Emergency Services

Nursing
School of Health Sciences

Jennifer Wright, A.A.S. (ADN), RN

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Myriah Stevens

Kristy Sweeney, RDCS

Sarah Taylor, A.A.S. (ADN), RN

Shawn Terry, B.A., RRT, RCP