When Opportunity Knocks: Pursuing a Nursing Degree Later in Life 

A former radiologic technologist, Rebecca Abner had spent years on the medical sidelines, but something inside her wanted more. “I wanted to be the one helping them heal,” she shared.

When she enrolled at Galen’s Hazard, Kentucky campus, Rebecca knew nursing school would be demanding — both academically and emotionally. Like many students, she wondered how hard nursing school really is as she prepared to take that leap.  

But each challenge reaffirmed her commitment to the calling she felt so deeply. “It pushed me in ways I didn’t expect, but it also reminded me why I started,” she said.  

Now a graduate of Galen’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, Rebecca is about to begin her career at Baptist Health in Corbin, KY, in a floating Medical-Surgical role that lets her rotate through multiple departments.  

Her journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pivot toward purpose — and to follow the part of your heart that wants to help.  

For Denise Prevette, the dream of becoming a nurse never faded — it just waited for the right time. “I’ve wanted to be a nurse since I graduated from high school back in 1982,” she says. “I was accepted to Watts School of Nursing in Durham, NC, but for personal reasons decided not to attend — a decision that I’ve always regretted.” 

Years later, after raising a family and building a career, Denise found herself standing in a hospital lobby when a Galen College of Nursing banner caught her eye. “Something inside me said, ‘Go home and read about this.’ So I did,” she recalls. With her husband’s encouragement, she attended an information session, won a free TEAS test, passed it, and soon received her acceptance call. “From that moment, I knew this was my time. The rest is history!”

Now 61 and preparing to graduate from the ADN program at Galen’s Asheville campus in December 2025, Denise has not only reignited her lifelong dream but also become a leader for others. As President of the Galen Student Nursing Association (GSNA) and SAC Chair, she champions fairness, communication, and inclusivity. “My goal has always been to be approachable and ensure every student feels heard and valued.”

For Denise, returning to nursing later in life has been nothing short of transformative. “Learning, even at 61, is not only possible but powerful,” she says. “It’s never too late to follow your calling or your dreams.”

Like Denise, Cynthia’s dream of working in healthcare began early, but life took her in a different direction. Over the years, she pursued a different career, setting her nursing aspirations aside. But after the unexpected passing of her husband and the hospitalization of her brother, Cynthia witnessed the unwavering dedication of medical professionals firsthand — and it reignited her desire to chase her lifelong dream.

With a renewed passion for helping others, Cynthia joined HCA Florida Brandon Hospital in 2021 as a nurse extern. At 65 years old, she became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) through Galen College of Nursing.

Today, Cynthia serves patients in the hospital’s medical-surgical unit, where her empathy and enthusiasm inspire everyone around her. In a recent HCA Healthcare post, she shared advice for anyone considering a new career later in life: “If it’s something that’s in you… go do it!”

With over 30 years of experience as an ICU nurse, Marie has spent her career offering compassion, skill, and calm in the most critical moments. But even with decades of experience, Marie knew she had more to learn — and more to give. 

“I’d always wanted to go back to school, but life kept getting in the way,” she admits in an HCA Healthcare post. “Through patience, endurance, and trusting God’s timing, the right opportunity finally came. When I found out HCA Healthcare would cover the cost and Galen College of Nursing offered such a flexible and supportive program, I thought, ‘Why not me?’ It was too good to pass up.” 

Marie enrolled in Galen’s online RN to BSN program — a decision she says changed everything. “The professors made the experience feel personal, even online. They truly cared about our success, and with HCA covering the tuition, it lifted a huge burden. I could focus fully on learning, not finances. That support made all the difference.” 

Now a proud BSN graduate at HCA Florida Poinciana Hospital, Marie feels more empowered than ever. “It’s a blessing to work for an organization that believes in you and helps you become your best self,” she says. “I’m proud to be part of that.”