MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE

Story compilations

by Eric Baker

Except where noted, photos provided by students

Cox College has a proud tradition of training health care professionals. Our alumni have gone on to be leaders in their field and have accomplished much. In this issue, we take a look at four nursing students–what brought them here and their plans for the future.

Lizabeth Salas ASN, Monett Campus

She always knew she wanted to work in the medical field, because she has always loved helping people. During her sophomore year, she transferred from Purdy to Monett High School where she graduated. After graduation she received her certification as a nursing assistant (CNA). When she started as a CNA she thought about becoming a dental hygienist, but after job shadowing in that area she changed her mind. Her next rotation found her job shadowing an ER nurse and it was then she knew she had found her calling.

“I was instantly interested in everything the nurse had to say. She explained the duties and her experiences. It was such a challenging and interesting career and I saw the impact I could have on others.”

Completing her prerequisites through Drury University, Salas was accepted into ASN program in 2021. She is currently in her second semester of nursing school and mother to a healthy, beautiful four year-old girl.

“It’s been an amazing experience and having the campus so close to home is so helpful. I’m proud of my accomplishments and my professors have been supportive and helpful. When I thought I wasn’t going to be able to continue, Professor Sperry helped me believe in myself."

In addition to her studies, Salas works at the Monett hospital on the Med-Surg floor. After graduation, she plans on studying for the state boards and NCLEX exam, and dedicating more time to family. She also hopes to find a job in Labor and Delivery n

Being a first-generation college student can be challenging. Being a firstgeneration college student AND a mother adds a whole new level of complexity.

Lizabeth Salas, ASN student at Cox College’s Monett campus, is the oldest of three daughters of immigrant parents. Born in Aurora, Missouri, her parents left Zacatecas, Mexico to pursue the American dream.

Once Salas received her CNA, she decided to attend Drury University because she knew Drury partnered with Cox College to offer nursing programs.

“Cox College is a great school as it focuses on what I have always wanted to do as a career.”

During her sophomore year in high school, Salas became pregnant. This pregnancy added stress, however Lizabeth saw it as a blessing and was determined to be successful and have a bright future for herself and her baby.