Fueled by Community, Guided by Purpose, Colbert Earns Barbara Rood Award as Owens Grad
Already equipped with her bachelor’s degree, Nikaija Colbert wanted more out of her professional life. So, she decided to enroll in the Nursing program at Owens Community College.
Safe to say, it was a good decision. Not only will Colbert graduate this month with her associate degree, but she was also named a winner of the Barbara Rood Student Choice Award.
Colbert attended Scott High School in Toledo before earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Administration from Eastern Michigan University, to go along with minors in psychology and African-American Studies. However, nursing was more aligned with her goals and passions, and the Owens program had what she wanted from a nursing program.
“What kept me focused is my strong desire to change my circumstances,” she said. “I knew that completing my program could be the start of a better life for me and my family.”
Colbert relied upon her friends and sorority sisters during her time at Owens.
“I value community and having them in my corner rooting for me, letting me practice skills on them, studying with me and encouraging me when I felt down has truly kept me grounded and motivated,” she said. “They are also very successful, so having like-minded women around me was inspirational.”
Another point of inspiration was her grandmother, who passed away when Colbert was 16 years old. Her memory helped keep Colbert focused on her dreams.
After graduation, Colbert plans to work in an oncology/neurology unit at a local hospital.
She hopes her journey can serve as an example to others.
“To young people, your circumstances do not have to define your future,” Colbert said. “Despite all the odds stacked against you, negativity and trials and tribulations, achieving your goals is always an option. Don’t let the world tell you that education is not important, because if there’s one thing no one can take from you, it’s the knowledge you possess.”