Pursuing a Dream Decades in the Making

A nursing student shares how she’s turning a lifelong goal into a new beginning

Welcome to Nurse Ascent, a twice-weekly newsletter created by nurses for nurses. This week, we feature a student nurse who proves it’s never too late to follow your calling. After 25 years in federal service, she decided to return to school and finally pursue her lifelong dream of nursing.

But first, a little something every nurse can relate to...

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Nurse Spotlight: Paris McDowney, practical nursing student

What I do for work
At 54, I am the class prefect. I am a practical nursing student finally pursuing my dream. I’ve just completed the Medical Terminology and Anatomy & Physiology courses; moving on to Nutrition next week.

How I got here
I've returned to school to pursue my childhood dream of nursing that was deferred for decades. After being fired from my federal employer of 25 years by this administration, I have decided to make this my encore career. My child is grown, and I have the best support system in my very supportive husband.

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🩷 Because you care for others every day, let these perks care for you.

More on Paris McDowney

A day in my life

I’m in class Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

My self-care routine (or what I do for fun, or to relax)

Spending time with my family and my dog are paramount for my self-care. I attend church weekly. These things keep me grounded and refreshed.

Today's spotlight was brought to you by reader:
Paris McDowney
(Practical nursing student)

Share your story & be entered to win

As part of our effort to spotlight nurses, we’d love to feature you in an upcoming issue of Nurse Ascent! Share your story by filling out our quick interview form, and you’ll be entered into a raffle to win a $50 gift card.

Headlines in Healthcare

Most Americans fear rising health care costs

A new AP-NORC poll finds that most U.S. adults are increasingly worried about the cost of medical care, insurance premiums, and prescription drugs heading into 2026. Nearly six in ten respondents said they’re “very” concerned about affording future health expenses. Analysts note that higher costs could push more workers to delay elective care or rely on employer-sponsored plans, impacting both workforce health and productivity.

Medicare open enrollment begins amid shutdown

The 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment period opened on October 15 as parts of the federal government remain shut down. Officials say essential Medicare services will continue, though some customer-service and claims processing could face delays. Experts urge beneficiaries—especially retirees and part-time workers relying on supplemental coverage—to review plan details, costs, and benefits carefully before the December 7 deadline to avoid unexpected expenses next year.

Training for health care jobs in California

A new Public Policy Institute of California report highlights growing opportunities for residents without a four-year degree pursuing health care careers. Many of the fastest-growing positions—such as medical assistants, licensed vocational nurses, and home health aides—offer competitive wages and steady job demand. The report emphasizes the need for stronger workforce pipelines, including community college programs and employer partnerships, to fill shortages in essential care roles across the state. These pathways are expected to play a key role in supporting both job growth and patient access in California’s expanding health system.

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