Brittany Beck '12 of Evansville, Indiana, is graduating this May from the USI Nurse Practitioner Program (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialty). Having earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from USI in 2012, she says it has been "an incredible full-circle journey" to go from USI undergrad to completing her master's degree, all while serving the local community as an oncology nurse for the past 13 years.
Brittany is a nurse at the Ascension St. Vincent Cancer Center in Evansville. "After years in oncology nursing, I realized I wanted more autonomy and the ability to offer a higher level of care to my patients," she say. "I knew I could do more, and I wanted to bridge that gap between bedside nursing and advanced clinical decision-making. Becoming a nurse practitioner felt like the right next step."
Q&A with Brittany Beck
Why did you choose USI for your degree? I chose USI because of the strong foundation I received during my undergraduate program. I knew the education was solid. The graduate faculty have been incredibly accommodating and understanding. I want to specifically recognize Bailey Rankin and Kara Doucet for their encouragement, responsiveness and the way they go above and beyond for their students. Their support made a major difference in my success.
What is a favorite memory of the USI graduate nursing program? While I completed the program online, my favorite aspect was how present and engaged the graduate faculty were. Even virtually, I felt seen and supported. It never felt like I was navigating it alone.
Why would you encourage someone younger considering nursing to choose USI? USI offers affordability without sacrificing quality. The community is supportive, and the faculty truly care about your success. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to school later in life, USI is a place where you’ll be both challenged and genuinely supported every step of the way.
Anything else you would like to add? As a working mom of two, going back for my master’s wasn’t easy—but it was possible. Don’t let anyone ever tell you that you can’t do hard things—especially after having kids. Parenthood, work and school can coexist. USI gave me the tools, flexibility and support I needed to reach my goals—and I’m proud to show my kids what perseverance looks like.