Erin Bell has faced both emotional and financial struggles in the pursuit of her educational and career goals. When Erin’s husband died of cancer seven years ago, she found herself a single mother raising six children under the age of 13 on a limited income. Nevertheless, Erin has remained on track in pursuit of her educational goals. With help from a supportive family, she completed her first year in the nursing program at the top of her class and earned a place on the dean’s list both semesters.

Erin is now a junior working toward her bachelor’s degree in nursing at California State University, Stanislaus. She has served as president and vice president of the Student Nursing Association (SNA) and attended state and national conventions. She is also developing a mentor program and “boot camp” for new nursing students.

Erin looks forward to a career in nursing and being able to give back to the community in order to help others. Eventually, she would like to pursue a master’s degree in nursing.