Support Student Nurse Sheep!

Hey y'all! For those who don't know me, my name is Shelia Lamb (aka "Sheep"). I am currently on a journey to become a Registered Nurse. For those who don't know my story, here it is.

In 2015, I graduated from Henry County High School in Paris, Tennessee. I then moved to Knoxville to attend the University of Tennessee. My initial goal was to go attend medical school and become a forensic anthropologist. Later, I changed to Kinesiology and graduated from the University of Tennessee with my first Bachelor's degree in 2019.

While working toward my degree, I began working at UT Medical Center in 2018. This allowed me to obtain the patient care experience that is required for medical school. Working at the Medical Center altered my life plans in a big way!

I fell in love with the world of nursing.

I truly enjoy the time I spend with patients at bedside. I love caring for patients, talking to them, and hearing their stories. My time with my patients has given me skills and knowledge I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Patient care is my passion.

In 2021, still employed at UT Medical Center, with the help of prayer, my friends, and my family, I started my journey toward a second bachelor's degree - a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

My journey has not come without its financial hardships. I have worked full-time while in nursing school. I have worked weekend night shifts to put myself through school. My financial struggles have caused me to pause my education, and at times, be without a vehicle. I had to forfeit my place in the nursing program.

I am destined to be a nurse. So I did not give up.

In 2023, I reached out to multiple nursing programs to seek readmission. I was accepted into Bethel University's Nursing Program. I moved back home to Paris to save money and be able to focus on reaching my dream of becoming a nurse.

In August, however, I was notified by the government Financial Aid Program (FAFSA), that I had maxed out my lifetime education financial aid assistance. I was no longer going to receive government aid to pay for Bethel's tuition.

I have reached out to Bethel for scholarships and work-study programs. However, I am ineligible because I am a second-degree student. Next semester, I will be eligible to apply for scholarship opportunities outside of the university.

I am currently employed at Henry County Medical Center and am trying very hard to pay my tuition. I am looking for a second job, as well, in addition to being a full-time student. The grind never stops!

The Bethel University Nursing Program has been nothing short of a dream. I have made great friends, my grades are better than ever, and my professors are extremely supportive of my situation. They have all been helping me in any way they can.

I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. I believe God put me here to care for others. I would hate to lose this blessing because I cannot afford it. I know I was made to be a nurse. This is why I am asking for your help!

If you have any questions please reach out to me. I would love to talk. If you'd like to pay Bethel directly with a credit or debit card, please call [phone redacted] and ask for the business office.

If you do not feel inclined to donate, I still appreciate your thoughts and prayers. I am open to any advice you have for someone seeking tuition assistance for their second bachelor's degree! Thanks for reading.

Future Nurse Sheep

p.s. I am NOT giving up. :)