For Trinity Carruthers, nursing represents more than a career change. It is an opportunity to bring together her academic background, personal experiences, and passion for improving healthcare.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science, Carruthers knew she wanted to continue working in healthcare. She was looking for a profession that would allow her to make a more direct impact on patients’ lives.

Her path to nursing began long before she entered the Tulane University Program of Nursing.

“Although I earned my bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science, my passion for healthcare has always extended beyond nutrition,” Carruthers said. “Growing up, I was inspired by my own story of being born prematurely and by witnessing the challenges many families face when navigating the healthcare system.”

Those experiences shaped her desire to work directly with patients and advocate for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Her long-term goal of improving maternal health outcomes, particularly among Black women, made nursing a meaningful next step.

“I wanted a career that would allow me to not only care for patients at the bedside but also serve as an advocate for health equity and positive change within healthcare,” she said.

Choosing Tulane for Her Next Chapter

When it came time to choose a nursing program, Carruthers was drawn to Tulane’s strong reputation, accelerated pathway to nursing, and emphasis on academic preparation and hands-on clinical learning.

“I chose Tulane because of its strong reputation, accelerated pathway to becoming a nurse, and commitment to preparing students through both rigorous academics and hands-on clinical experiences,” she said. “I was also drawn to the opportunity to learn in New Orleans, a city with diverse patient populations and unique healthcare needs.”

For Carruthers, Tulane’s Nursing program offered the combination she was looking for: a challenging academic environment, meaningful clinical preparation, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Bringing a Background in Nutrition and Athletics to Nursing

Carruthers’ previous experiences have become valuable assets in her nursing education.

Her degree in Nutritional Science provided a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and evidence-based practice. She has been able to build on that knowledge as she develops the clinical skills and judgment needed to care for patients.

“Having already completed a rigorous undergraduate program, I entered nursing school with an understanding of how to critically analyze research, apply scientific concepts, and approach healthcare from a holistic perspective,” she said.

Her experience as a Division I student-athlete also prepared her for the demands of an accelerated nursing program. Balancing athletics, academics, leadership, and community service taught her discipline, time management, accountability, and perseverance.

Those skills have helped her navigate the challenges of nursing school, collaborate with classmates, and stay focused on her long-term goals.

Building Confidence Through Hands-On Learning

As Carruthers transitioned into nursing, the clinical and hands-on components of the Program of Nursing became especially meaningful. Simulation experiences have given her opportunities to strengthen her clinical judgment and build confidence, while clinical experiences have helped her connect classroom learning with patient care. Just as important has been the sense of community she has found within her cohort.

“The clinical experiences, simulation labs, and the relationships I have built with my cohort have been the most impactful parts of my transition into nursing,” she said. “Going through an accelerated program together creates a unique sense of support, understanding, and camaraderie that has helped me navigate both the challenges and successes of nursing school.”

Growing Into the Nurse She Wants to Become

For Carruthers, one of the most rewarding aspects of nursing school has been recognizing how much she has grown. Beyond the classroom, she is developing the confidence, resilience, and perspective needed to become a nurse who cares for patients and advocates for better healthcare.

“Nursing school has challenged me academically, mentally, and emotionally in ways I never expected,” she said. “But each obstacle has strengthened my confidence, resilience, and determination.”

“Knowing that every challenge is bringing me closer to my goal of caring for patients and making a meaningful impact in healthcare makes the journey incredibly rewarding.”

Advice for Those Considering a Career Change

For anyone considering a career in nursing, Carruthers emphasizes the importance of hard work, adaptability, and perseverance.

“Be prepared to work hard, remain adaptable, and trust the process,” she said. “Nursing school is challenging, but if you are passionate about serving others and committed to learning, the rewards far outweigh the difficulties.”

Her advice to those beginning their own nursing journey is equally personal: give yourself grace.

“Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s,” Carruthers said. “Stay organized, seek help when needed, build a strong support system, and trust that every challenge is helping shape you into the nurse you are meant to become.”

For Carruthers, the journey to nursing began with a degree in Nutritional Science and a desire to make a difference in healthcare. At Tulane, she is building on that foundation and preparing for a career centered on patient care, health equity, and improving maternal health outcomes.

She isn’t starting over. She’s building on everything she has already accomplished to become the nurse she aspires to be.