If you have ever made a trip to the ER, you know it can sometimes be a scary situation. Whether you’re there for a severe cold, a broken bone or other ailments, there’s no doubt a trip to the emergency room can be stressful. That’s why it’s comforting to know nurses like Becca Thompson will be there to ease your fears and provide the best medical care possible. For Thompson, a Scott Community College graduate, supporting others is what it’s all about.

EICC’s Nursing Program is fully accredited and 95 percent of its graduates pass the national licensure exam (NCLEX), among the highest in the state.

“I chose the field of nursing because I have a strong desire to help others. Being able to deliver immediate empathetic care and services to those who are having a difficult time is very rewarding to me,” Thompson said.

Thompson currently works as an ER nurse at Genesis and has often described it as her “dream” job. It’s a dream she said was made possible thanks to SCC’s nursing program.

“The education I received while attending SCC prepared me for continued lifelong learning experiences and opened up opportunities to transition into higher levels of education. I gained skills and competencies to successfully pass the NCLEX the first time. In addition to taking other prerequisite college courses, I learned basic lab skills, nursing theories and clinical practice that are useful in the workforce.”

She said the ability to quickly complete her degree was also a huge benefit.

“Being an older student and having already attended college once before, I wanted to receive my degree as quick as possible so I could begin my career working as a registered nurse. SCC was affordable and convenient.”

While going back to school is never easy, Thompson said she is now doing what she loves and she encourages others to do the same.

“It’s never too late to go back to school and earn a degree in something that you have a passion for. Work hard, study hard and don’t give up. All the difficult times will prepare you to be a stronger person in the future,” she said.

Visit eicc.edu/nursing to learn more about the nursing programs at Clinton, Muscatine and Scott Community Colleges.