Cat Landa: Balancing Family, Work, and Education to Achieve Her Nursing Dream
A Dream Reignited
Cat's path to nursing wasn't a straight line. After graduating in 2010 with a diploma in medical assisting, she always knew she wanted to make a greater impact in healthcare. "Nursing has always been my passion," Cat shares. As a kid, she dreamed of helping kids as a pediatrician.
When the pandemic began, Cat found herself a stay-at-home mom to three children. This unexpected turn of events provided the perfect opportunity to refocus her efforts and pursue her long-held goal of becoming a nurse.
Choosing Herzing University
Cat's decision to enroll at Herzing was driven by practical considerations that aligned with her life circumstances. "I chose Herzing University due to its flexible scheduling options, which aligned well with my family commitments," she explains. The accelerated 3-year nursing program also appealed to Cat, allowing her to progress towards her degree at a pace that suited her personal timeline.
Thriving in the Herzing Environment
Cat's experience at Herzing has been marked by growth, both academically and personally. She credits Dr. Jessica Kapusin, one of her favorite professors, with enhancing her critical thinking skills and encouraging her involvement in the Student Nursing Association (SNA). "I've been actively participating in SNA for nearly a year," Cat says. "This involvement has allowed me to network and both receive and provide support to my peers."
As part of the federal work-study program at Herzing, Cat has found invaluable support in Stephanie Hoppe. "Her consistent availability and willingness to assist with both work and academic challenges have been invaluable," Cat shares. "She always helps me connect with the right resources whenever I face an issue, whether work-related or not."
Mastering the Art of Balance
Balancing family life, work, and studies is no small feat, but Cat has developed effective strategies to manage her time. She relies heavily on her planner, creating a detailed calendar at the beginning of each semester.
Cat also prioritizes family time, setting aside two hours each day for cooking and spending quality time with her children and husband. Her part-time work with the university offers flexibility, allowing her to adjust hours or complete assignments while on the clock when her academic workload is heavy.
Looking to the Future
Cat's ambitions extend beyond her current BSN program, which she's set to complete in 2025. "After completing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I plan to pursue further education in nursing on a part-time basis," she says. Her goal is to transition to part-time studies while increasing her work hours, enabling her family to regain financial independence.
Advice for Future Students
Drawing from her own experience, Cat offers valuable advice to incoming students: "Create an environment that allows you to focus exclusively on your studies. If you have the opportunity to prioritize your education without the demands of a job, I strongly encourage you to do so." She also emphasizes the importance of timing, urging students to "continue your education immediately after high school or as soon as possible; don't let anything delay your pursuit of your goals and aspirations."
The Herzing Difference
For Cat, what sets Herzing University apart is its responsiveness to student needs. "What distinguishes Herzing University for me is its commitment to actively listening to student concerns," she reflects. "When issues arise, the staff genuinely considers our feedback and suggestions."
Cat Landa's journey at Herzing University is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of support systems, and the transformative impact of education. As she continues to work towards her nursing degree, with graduation on the horizon, Cat embodies the spirit of dedication and service that Herzing University has fostered for 60 years and counting.