Meet Tinatra Carr
Meet Tinatra Carr
This single mom is able to continue working while earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing through the U of A’s new online L.P.N. to B.S.N. program
Tinatra Carr has a packed schedule. She’s a single mom and a full-time licensed practical nurse — and now she’s a University of Arkansas student.
The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing at the U of A recently added an online degree for L.P.N.s like Tinatra to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing, which will make her skills more marketable. Tinatra said online classes are crucial to her ability to return to school.
“I wouldn’t be able to physically go to classes on campus,” she said. “The L.P.N. to B.S.N. online program gives me the flexibility that I need.”
The online program helps students meet industry expectations, stay competitive in the job market and increase earning potential.
Tinatra Carr and daughter, Promisee
Tinatra, who works as an L.P.N. at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Fayetteville, said the eight-week U of A course is fast-paced and has impressive instructors. She does homework with her 8-year-old daughter, Promisee, every day after school.
“That way we can work on homework together,” she said. “I also have set study times from 9 to 11 p.m. during the week and on Sundays, after church, grocery shopping and aerobics.”
Tinatra wanted to become a nurse because she loves taking care of people.
“I was placed on this earth to touch hearts, and what better way than to take care of people who are ill and unable to care for themselves?” she said.
Tinatra said the “three Ds” – desire, determination and dedication – spur her on when life gets chaotic. She learned those character traits from John L. Colbert, her elementary school principal. Dr. Colbert is now superintendent of Fayetteville Public Schools.
Tinatra is embodying the meaning of those words daily and passing them down to her daughter.
Certainly, she’s demonstrating the three Ds in her quest for a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
“I think it’s important to lead by example so that my daughter understands the importance of setting goals and achieving them,” Tinatra said.
Congratulations to Tinatra and the inaugural class of 46 L.P.N. to B.S.N. students! We’re cheering you on!
Are you inspired to earn your online bachelor’s degree in nursing like Tinatra? Courses are offered in 8-week sessions, and students can apply for the program each fall or spring. For more information, contact the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing at 479-575-6640 or at OnlineRN@uark.edu.
