It Is Never Too Late to Follow Your Dreams

Monday, Jun 27, 2022

Brent Crabtree decided in 2020 to return to school at the age of 53 to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with plans to proceed right into the Master of Science in Nursing Family Practitioner program. Crabtree was inspired to come back to school for many reasons, but one thing made him committed to the journey once he started. “What stands out to me the most is when I saw my name on the Dean’s Honor List for the first time,” shares Crabtree. Afterward, he knew he had to keep pushing.

 “I live and work in rural New Mexico, which is medically underserved. There are just not enough primary care providers and I want to do my part in providing quality health care to my community,” Crabtree said.

This is one of the main reasons Crabtree is back in school.

His journey has been an inspiration to many, including his nursing colleagues, to follow their dreams. Crabtree reflects that he might just be the oldest CONHI student in the BSN program, but that will not stop him from everything he wants to achieve while he can.

“I also want to make mention the instructors and coaches in CONHI, all have been top-notch professionals and have been nothing short of helpful. They genuinely want to see CONHI students succeed,” Crabtree shared this while talking about his experience at UTA. He has been able to learn how to balance work, family, and school all by doing his best to be organized and stay on top of everything by prioritizing and making lists. “Lists are lifesavers,” he added.

Crabtree’s advice to others who would like to return to school, “Don't be afraid! UTA CONHI has numerous resources to assist you. I can honestly say that I have not run into any issues whatsoever with people not being helpful. Taking that first step is the hardest part of the journey.”

One of Brent’s favorite quotes (adapted from original author Suzanne Woods Fisher) that he wanted to share is, “Do the kindest things in the kindest ways,” which has helped him along in his journey.

-Written by Precious Olowokere, College of Nursing and Health Innovation