Belton resident builds future in nursing through Central Texas College

For Belton resident Iosefa Taylor, becoming a registered nurse represents a continuation of service shaped by perseverance, adaptability, and purpose.

After graduating from Central Texas College’s Associate Degree Nursing program, Taylor is advancing her career through a graduate nurse residency while continuing her education toward a bachelor’s degree.

“I have accepted a graduate nurse residency position in the Emergency Department at Seton Medical Center and am continuing my education at TAMUCT in the RN-BSN degree program,” Taylor said.

Taylor said nursing allows her to serve others during moments of fear and uncertainty, combining clinical skill with compassion.

“Nursing fulfills my desire to serve others by being present for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” she said. “This position allows me to help people when they are frightened, vulnerable, and in need of both medical care and human connection, something I’m honored to provide in the Emergency Department.”

Central Texas College provided the flexibility Taylor needed to continue her education while balancing work and family responsibilities.

“CTC afforded me the opportunity to continue working as an LVN while taking my prerequisites online prior to moving to Texas,” she said. “Once I arrived in Texas, I was able to seamlessly continue my goal of graduating from the RN program and accomplish what was previously my short-term career goal.”

Taylor’s path to graduation unfolded during a period of major personal and professional transition, marked by uncertainty and limited access to educational opportunities.

“I separated from the Army, had my first child, and moved to a remote military base with my spouse at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, all while trying to find a college that I could take courses at to continue my nursing education,” she said. “This proved difficult in a time of uncertainty and as waitlists grew, pushing my dreams further away.”

Her momentum resumed when her spouse received orders to Fort Hood, prompting Taylor to search for nursing programs in the region. She said Central Texas College quickly emerged as the right fit.

“CTC’s easy application process, Veteran Services Department, close proximity to the base, and large catalogue of online courses made it very easy for me to apply and begin working towards my goals again,” she said.

As an adult learner, Taylor views earning her associate degree as both practical and empowering.

“Getting my AAS in nursing as an adult learner is advantageous because it allows me to move forward in the field of nursing, and increasing my nursing knowledge allows me to improve my patient care,” she said.

Taylor said she was surprised by the diversity of the nursing students in her classes, which strengthened her perspective as a nurse.

“I was surprised how many of the members of my cohort were also already healthcare workers, mothers, fathers, spouses, adult learners, and immigrants,” she said. “I loved being in such a diverse class because it gave me so much insight on various aspects of nursing care and barriers to care that deserve acknowledgment.”

Reflecting on her journey, Taylor emphasized the importance of embracing every learning opportunity.

“If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to seize every opportunity to learn, even if it’s something you already know,” she said.