Latasha Nellons has dreamed of becoming a nurse for as long as she can remember. "When I was 12 years old, I had back surgery. The care that I got was so amazing and nurturing and loving. I felt like my mom was taking care of me. I said I would definitely love to give that back when I get older. I love people, and I love to help others."
Nearly four decades later, she's turning that childhood promise into reality. Proving that it's never too late to pursue a dream, the 49-year-old mother of 3 is pursuing her lifelong goal. In 2022, she began working at SUNY Upstate Medical University as a Licensed Practical Nurse. A short time later, she began taking her Nursing prerequisites at Onondaga Community College. During the fall 2025 semester, the SUNY Reconnect program supported her efforts.
SUNY Reconnect is a new, tuition-free community college program for students between the ages of 25 and 55 who have not yet earned a college degree. It covers the cost of tuition, fees, books, and supplies after all other financial aid is applied. "It was a big blessing. Without it, I don't know if I could have gotten a lot done on my own. It took away a lot of the burden."
She found the transition back into the classroom later in life to be both challenging and fulfilling. "I was in there with 20-year-olds. They were really nurturing because I was the 'old lady' in class. It was intimidating in the beginning, but it was rewarding to sit among them and still be able to get the job done at my age."
With her Nursing prerequisites complete, Nellons is now focused on taking the OCC Nursing program's Test of Essential Academic Skills test which students refer to as TEAS. If she scores high enough, she'll be enrolled in OCC's Nursing program and one step closer to becoming a Registered Nurse. "It's time for me to get where I need to be in life and do what makes me happy. I would encourage anyone at any age to never give up. With enough determination, you definitely can get the job done."
