The story of a mother and daughter graduating together from East Carolina University’s nursing program is a heartwarming tale of perseverance and familial support. Jessica Van Wagenen, a retired Marine, had put her own dreams on hold to provide stability for her family, prioritizing their needs above her own educational aspirations.
Explaining her decision, Jessica said, “I decided to forgo my college and focus on giving the children as much stability as possible.” Fortunately, the opportunity for higher education came knocking again, and this time, both Jessica and her daughter, Keelin Van Wagenen, decided to pursue nursing together.
Keelin expressed her immense pride in her mother’s achievements, saying, “I tell her every day that I’m proud of her.” Now, both women have embarked on their nursing careers, with Keelin working as a pediatric nurse at ECU Health, and Jessica as an operating room nurse at Carteret Healthcare.
Their shared journey through nursing school has not only led to successful careers but also created enduring memories and strengthened their bond as mother and daughter. Jessica shared her excitement, saying, “It’s pretty exciting. It’s really nice to be able to share that with my daughter. We will always have that together.” Keelin added humorously, “I just get to say I went with my mom.”
The story of Jessica and Keelin Van Wagenen serves as a heartening reminder of the importance of pursuing one’s dreams, no matter the obstacles or the timing. Their unwavering determination to achieve their goals, together as a family, is an inspiration to us all.