Mackenzie Morrison, a determined biology major on a pre-nursing track, returned to college for the Fall 2024 semester with a renewed sense of purpose. She initially stepped away from her studies due to mental health challenges, but always intended to return once she had reached a place of stability. After an injury at Trader Joe’s she realized she wanted a career that relied on intellect rather than physical labor. This realization reinforced her commitment to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, with completing her bachelor’s degree as the critical first step toward that goal.
In her first semester back at Smith College, she earned an impressive 3.84 GPA while taking a full caseload of courses, proving her dedication and academic strength.
Reflecting on her journey, Mackenzie emphasizes the importance of returning to school and managing your course load to meet your individual needs.
What advice can you give to students trying to return to school?
“Avoid feeling pressured to take on a full course load immediately. Instead, consider easing back into your academics by starting with one or two classes, possibly at a local community college, to rebuild confidence and adapt to your academic environment.”
Despite these recommendations for others, Mackenzie jumped right into a full caseload and is determined to complete her degree, demonstrating her resilience and unwavering commitment to her goals. Her experience highlights the perseverance, strategic planning, and dedication needed to persist through challenges and achieve long-term success.
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