The Versatility of a Nursing Degree: Meet Laura Keller

When Laura Keller began her career journey, she never imagined it would lead her to nursing education. She also didn’t foresee earning both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Chamberlain University. But as Laura’s story shows, a nursing degree can open doors to countless fulfilling paths—and sometimes, students discover a new calling along the way.

Finding Her Calling

Laura worked at a pharmacy, and at first, she thought she wanted to be a pharmacist. “But after shadowing with a pharmacy student for a week, I realized that the field of pharmacy was not for me,” she recalls. Laura found that she was drawn to patients rather than pharmacology. “I truly enjoyed the patients and learning about their medications and how they improved their symptoms,” she says. 

Laura decided to leave the pharmacy to become a patient care technician at a hospital. She shares, “After being a tech on the floor for six weeks, I knew my heart was called to be a nurse.”

That decision marked the start of a rewarding career that has evolved over more than two decades. Laura earned her associate degree in nursing (ADN) in 2003 and became a registered nurse (RN) while raising two young children. Eventually, she became a nurse case manager. After her family moved to Florida, she returned to school to earn her bachelor’s degree in Chamberlain’s RN to BSN Option in 2020.

Discovering New Directions

“I chose Chamberlain initially for my BSN because one of my friends graduated from [there] and had very positive things to say about the faculty and program,” Laura says. “Then, because of the positive experience I had with my BSN, I decided to continue with my education at Chamberlain for my MSN.” 

When Laura first enrolled in Chamberlain’s Master of Science in Nursing program, the Florida nurse chose a nurse practitioner specialization. But as she advanced through her coursework, she realized her true passion was helping others learn.

“I realized that I loved teaching my fellow nurses and new nurses,” she says. “Teaching nurses to be the best nurses they can be really makes my heart happy.”

With guidance from her Chamberlain advisor, Laura switched from a nurse practitioner specialization to the Nurse Educator specialization. “My advisor was very helpful in explaining the new pathway and what I would need to do to become an MSN-prepared nurse educator,” she says. 

A Career Built on Education

Today, Laura serves as the director of clinical education at a private nursing college in Florida. Her MSN degree, she says, prepared her for leadership by giving her the skills to design and implement effective nursing curricula.

“As an MSN-prepared educator, I can ensure students receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education that aligns with current healthcare needs,” she explains. “I’m able to accurately gauge student learning, identify areas for improvement, and provide constructive feedback.”

Her current role, she adds, is the best fit yet in her nursing career. “Nursing is an amazing profession,” she says. 

A Proud Nurse, Always

Even after more than 20 years in nursing, Laura’s enthusiasm hasn’t faded. “I am proud to be a nurse,” she says. “I wear my degree as a badge of honor. I think more people should become nurses. If I get the chance to talk to anyone, I’ll make sure to mention nursing!”

That pride extends to her connection with Chamberlain. “I felt supported throughout my MSN program,” she says. “The faculty were very supportive of school–life balance and always available to answer questions. I’m proud to be a Chamberlain graduate!”

Words of Advice for Future Nurses

Laura encourages both new and experienced nurses to continue their nursing education. “Nursing has so many different opportunities and pathways,” she says. “Try new things and see what makes you happy.”

Her advice to Chamberlain students is equally heartfelt: “Take time to appreciate your practicum experience—it’s more than just hours to complete. Be open to any opportunity. Every experience can help you grow as an MSN-prepared nurse.”

A Career Defined by Versatility

From hospital care to case management to nursing education, Laura’s journey reflects the true versatility of a nursing degree. “Most nurses start with a certain ‘why,’” she says, “and that ‘why’ may change a few times during your nursing career. Your first nursing job might not be your final nursing job.” 

Choose Chamberlain

Chamberlain University, the nation's largest nursing school, offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral nursing degree programs. Chamberlain’s online programs are designed with flexibility that lets adult professionals create the school-life-work balance that allows them to earn a degree. Coursework is 100% online, with a direct care or practicum component, and available 24/7. 

Do you want to learn more about becoming a nurse? Contact a Chamberlain Enrollment Representative at 877-585-6978 for more information. As a nurse, you’ll contribute to the health and well-being of your community. Start your journey now.

Chamberlain University, an HLC-accredited institution, offers bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and certificate programs in nursing and healthcare professions. With a growing network of campuses and robust online programs, Chamberlain continues to build on more than 135 years of excellence in preparing extraordinary healthcare professionals.