Some just graduated high school while others moved to the area to change their lives, but the 100-plus adults who recently started the adult Practical Nursing program at Capital Region BOCES all have a singular goal – improve their lives!
The adults range from teenagers to those who have experienced several decades on this Earth and all are taking classes daily at Capital Region BOCES as they pursue certification as licensed practical nurses (LPNs).
“I like the idea of helping people heal and I am looking forward to learning and getting experience this year here and at Albany [Medical Center],” said Albany resident Ethan Lin.
Lin and his classmates started session on Sept. 8 at the Health Careers Center in Albany at Capital Region BOCES. They will complete 1,100 hours of classroom and clinical study and prepares students by June before taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and then apply to become a New York State Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Carlrichie Gouboth and his cousin Carmlay Gouboth moved to Albany from Rockland County in order to take the class and create better lives for themselves.
“We decided it was best to move to a new area and have an opportunity to grow and get better surroundings,” said Carmlay Gouboth. “I feel like I am a people person and I love helping people so nursing is right for me.”
Theresa Smalling of Cohoes chose Capital Region BOCES to launch a new career.
“I was working in finance and wanted something different so I became a CNA and that really reinforced my interest in nursing,” she said. “I did research and determined that BOCES was the best program for me, so I enrolled.”
Smalling said it isn’t the first time nursing has ignited a passion in her.
“Forever ago when I was in college, before I switched majors to accounting. I had been studying nursing and thought I might become a pediatrician, so this is a full circle moment for me,” she said.
Lacey Gamble said she has always had a passion for helping others and that led her to BOCES.
“I really like people and helping others and nursing seems like a good career,” said the Schenectady resident.
Enrollment is currently underway for a part-time adult Practical Nursing program session. Classes for that program will begin in January. For more information, call 518-862-4709 or email healthcareers@neric.org.