Perseverance and Support from LCC’s WIOA Program Help Pearson Achieve Dream of Becoming a Nurse
For Jazmyne Pearson, becoming a nurse was more than a career goal. It was a dream she pursued through years of hard work, personal challenges, and sacrifice, with the support of Lenoir Community College’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program helping her along the way.
As a single mother of four, Pearson balanced the demands of nursing school with working and caring for her family. The rigorous schedule of classes, clinical rotations, studying, and exams was challenging on its own, but Pearson also faced significant personal loss during her journey. In May 2024, she lost her mother, whom she describes as one of her biggest supporters.
Even during some of her most difficult moments, Pearson remained determined to become a registered nurse. “Becoming a nurse was a dream I refused to give up on, even when facing obstacles that made the path seem impossible,” Pearson said.
One of the resources that helped make continuing her education possible was the WIOA program. Through WIOA, Pearson received assistance with education-related expenses, study resources, career opportunities, and other services designed to help her overcome barriers to completing her education. She also found encouragement from WIOA Director Ika Grant, whom Pearson describes as a counselor and supporter throughout her journey.
“Knowing I had support from people who believed in my goals and well-being gave me the motivation to keep pushing forward during difficult times,” Pearson said. “WIOA has been one of the most important parts of my success story.”
Pearson’s path was not without setbacks. At one point, she had to step away from the nursing program and later apply for readmission. Rather than allowing the setback to end her goal, she returned to the program determined to finish what she had started.
Her second journey through nursing school required balancing many of the same responsibilities while continuing to work toward a more stable future for herself and her children. There were long days when full-time work was followed immediately by class or a clinical rotation, but Pearson kept going.
That persistence eventually paid off. Pearson completed the nursing program, participated in her pinning ceremony, graduated, and passed the NCLEX to become a registered nurse. “Delayed, not denied” became her motto along the way.
Today, Pearson sees her accomplishment as representing much more than earning a degree or beginning a new career. It represents the late nights, sacrifices, challenges, and moments when she chose to keep moving forward.
“My success is not only for me. It is for my children, my family, and everyone who has ever faced a setback and wondered if they could still reach their goals,” Pearson said.
Pearson credits WIOA with helping provide both the resources and encouragement she needed to reach her goal. Now, as she begins the next chapter of her career as a registered nurse, she hopes her experience encourages others who may be facing barriers of their own.
“I am proud to represent the WIOA program because I am living proof that when people are given the right resources, guidance, and opportunity, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams,” Pearson said.
