When we created our first CEUfast scholarship, our goal was to support a passionate nursing student on their journey. What we didn't expect was how much our very first recipient would inspire us in return. Holly Langston, a former dental hygienist who made the bold leap into nursing, demonstrated the kind of dedication, grit, and compassion that embodies the nursing profession.
Holly's story and the impact this scholarship had on her success reminded us why programs like this are so important. Her journey ultimately inspired us to expand our scholarship opportunities on a national level. We are proud to spotlight Holly as our first-ever recipient and invite you to learn more about her story in the Q&A below.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing, and how has your perspective evolved since you first started your program?
After 23 years as a Dental Hygienist, I was feeling burned out and wanted a new challenge. I have wanted to return to RN school for years, but the timing wasn't right, as I was raising my daughters and couldn't stop working at the time. Once my daughters were grown, I decided it was a now-or-never situation. I began the 2024 RN program at FGC. The program was rigorous and required a lot of time for assignments and studying. Before the program started, I knew that nurses required a lot of knowledge and skill, but by the end of the program, I learned just how broad the knowledge, skill, critical thinking, and autonomy the profession required.
2. What did receiving the first CEUfast scholarship mean to you personally and professionally? How did the scholarship support you during your studies?
The scholarship came through in my second semester. I had paid for my first semester out of pocket, and considering I had to quit my job to meet classroom attendance, which was Monday-Thursday. I was feeling the financial strain and unsure how I was going to keep paying for it without assistance. I had maxed out my financial assistance with my prior degree. I was so blessed to receive this scholarship that helped reimburse some of my financial expenses. By not having to find a side job, I was able to fully commit to my studies and graduate with honors.
3. Can you share a meaningful experience you had during your nursing education, whether in the classroom, a clinical setting, or a community project?
My clinical experience at HCA Lake City was very integral in my clinical experience. I was mostly in the ICU and ER departments. We had a superb instructor who really nailed in the pathophysiology of the disease process and encouraged us to utilize our learned skills. I was able to build confidence in my clinical and patient skills, becoming proficient in IV and NG tube placement, and viewing the patient as a whole. I was able to do CPR on a couple of codes as well. The experience was very meaningful in my journey.
4. Now that you've graduated, what area of nursing are you most passionate about entering, and why? Do you see continuing your education further, and if so, what are your goals?
I am most passionate about working with critical care patients and also in Labor and Delivery. I love the fast pace of critical care settings that involve critical thinking and delivering life-saving treatments. Mother-baby is another passion of mine as I have two daughters and now a grandbaby. I had the best birthing experience myself and was able to help my daughter deliver her baby, which was very special.
I am going to start my bachelor's degree in the fall and also plan to get my master's Degree as a nurse practitioner, or have considered going to CRNA school.
5. What advice would you give to other nursing students, especially those who might be considering applying for the CEUfast scholarship?
My nursing advice to new students would be to focus, prioritize, study every day, be professional in class and in a clinical setting, do assignments as they open, and utilize all resources for learning. Apply for the scholarship, especially if they cannot get government assistance. This scholarship changed my immediate situation and allowed me to excel in school. My financial stress was removed, and it allowed me to focus solely on my learning.
About CEUfast, Inc.
Founded in 2002 by nurses, for nurses, CEUfast is an accredited provider of continuing education for healthcare professionals. With a focus on quality and convenience, CEUfast offers a wide range of online CE courses that are accepted by virtually every state. CEUfast is an ANCC-accredited provider and is committed to improving patient outcomes through ongoing continuing education.
