Nursing is a calling, one that Samford University's Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing takes to heart. It requires hands for service, a heart of compassion and a spirit committed to caring for the whole person.
For Caroline Anderton, that calling led her back to the classroom after becoming a registered nurse, enrolling in Samford's online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) while continuing to work full time as a pediatric nurse.
"I wanted a school where I could be challenged academically while also being surrounded by people who encouraged me in my faith and helped me grow into the person God was calling me to be," Anderton said. "Samford felt like a place where my education and faith could truly grow together."
Anderton works full time as a pediatric nurse while enrolled in the program. The online format allows her to continue caring for patients while advancing her education. Balancing work, school and life requires discipline and intentionality, and the experience has taught her to manage her time, prioritize what matters most and stay focused on her goals.
"Working to earn my BSN has given me a deeper understanding of leadership, evidence-based practice and quality improvement," Anderton said. "I've been fortunate to learn from professors who have encouraged me throughout the program."
Among those professors is Ashley York, associate professor and RN to BSN coordinator, who has played an important role in Anderton's experience. Through York's mentorship, Anderton has gained confidence not only in her abilities as a nurse but also in the kind of nurse she hopes to become.
"She has continually encouraged me to believe in myself and to approach nursing with both confidence and compassion," Anderton said. "Her example has reminded me of the importance of having mentors who invest not only in your professional growth but also in who you are as a person."
For Anderton, nursing brings together science, critical thinking and compassion, but the opportunity to serve others makes the profession especially meaningful.
"Most importantly, I love that nursing lets me serve people in a tangible way," Anderton said. "My faith reminds me that every person has inherent value, and that perspective has shaped the way I care for my patients."
After graduation, Anderton plans to continue growing as a pediatric nurse and strengthening her leadership in practice. She hopes to use what she has learned through the RN to BSN program to better serve her patients, support her colleagues and continue growing professionally.
"I've gained the knowledge and clinical skills I need to be a better nurse, but I've also learned lessons about leadership, perseverance, service and faith," Anderton said.
Samford’s online RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance their nursing education. Structured in a convenient four-semester plan, the program emphasizes advanced nursing concepts such as global health, leadership, population health, transitions in care and evidence-based practice. Apply today.
ONLINE: Enroll in bachelors, masters and doctorate programs through Samford Online.