Defying the odds

Aline Caine-Campbell graduated from Keiser University with an associate degree in nursing. PHOTO BY CARLIE ADMIRE/FLORIDA WEEKLY

Aline Caine-Campbell is a testament to the power of resilience and dedication.

The 35-year-old defied the odds with the many obstacles of being a teenage mother, an immigrant and both the loss of her home and loved one by becoming a first-generation college graduate.

On Friday, July 12, she walked the stage and accepted her associate degree in nursing at Keiser University – something she had envisioned for years.

Now, Caine-Campbell plans to take on her next academic challenge: a bachelor’s degree of science in nursing, followed by a master’s degree.

“Age is just a number. If you have motivation and ambition, you can do anything,” says Caine-Campbell.

Earning a degree was a significant achievement for Caine-Campbell, marking a major milestone in her journey to pursue a career in helping others through nursing. However, her story serves as a true inspiration to those around her, demonstrating the reign of perseverance to accomplish one’s goals.

Aline Caine-Campbell, seen in her nursing scrubs, plans on becoming a midwife and is pursuing a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing. COURTESY PHOTO

In 2004, Caine-Campbell was one of the approximately 18.4 percent of pregnant teenagers in Jamaica, a statistic that highlights the concerning trend of early parenthood among young Jamaicans. At the adolescent age of 14, Caine-Campbell’s formal education was put on a halt in the ninth grade. Despite the progression back to academia being increasingly difficult, Caine-Campbell’s unwavering dream of becoming a nurse was never lost but empowered.

“Life in Jamaica was hard. Pregnant teenagers were not allowed to go to school in my country,” Caine-Campbell said. “They have women’s centers, but I didn’t get a chance to go to those centers; I was out of school all the time.

“It was a very hard time for my family. My mom knew I had potential, and I was a good student, so dropping out of school was hard for me,” she added.

Caine-Campbell made the brave and bold decision to move to the United States to follow her passions of higher education and a career within the medical field, all while balancing the responsibility of motherhood, work and the challenges of a new country.

“I knew there were more opportunities for me in the United States,” she says. “I always wanted to be a nurse. In Jamaica, they are well-respected and come to your house to take care of you and your babies. As a kid, I was intrigued by the outfits. I wanted to wear the white dress and hat. My mom called me, ‘her little nurse.’”

Caine-Campbell took the first step by earning her General Education Diploma (GED) and began applying to colleges.

She says, “I applied to several universities, but only one called me back, and it was Keiser University,” she said. “After a year and a half of completing the prerequisites online while working full time, I finally got the credits I needed for the nursing program and was accepted as a nursing student. It was a big deal since it is difficult to get into.”

Once accepted into Keiser University, Caine-Campbell reduced her work hours to accommodate her academic schedule. As a result, she faced the added challenge of losing her home but gained the support of her classmates, family and community as she continued her commitment to her goal of becoming a licensed registered nurse.

“I thought, I have to choose: do I go to school, or do I keep my job? How am I going to pay my bills?” says Caine-Campbell. “I chose my education because I knew that a better education would make me a better person in the long run. Nursing will help financially but also build a better life for my family and son.

“I gave up my home, which was hard. It was my comfort zone, but what pushed me to go harder,” she said. “I am glad I never gave up.”

Keiser University Nursing Program Chair Megan McNealy said, “From the moment Aline Caine-Campbell began Keiser University’s nursing program, it was clear that her resilience and commitment to excellence was going to make a significant impact on those she would encounter. During her studies, she faced the profound heartbreaking loss of a loved one. This tested her spirit, but she honored their memory by dedicating herself even more to her goals, knowing they would be proud of her perseverance.”

McNealy continued, “(Caine-Campbell) was not just a student nurse, she was a friend, mentor and leader. Her ability to inspire and motivate others was evident in the way her classmates looked up to her. Her journey was also characterized by her compassion and empathy. She often went above and beyond to ensure that her patients received the best possible care. Her peers admired her for her kindness and ability to connect with patients on a higher level.”

“I am the first nurse in my family and the first to graduate from college. My family watched me study every night: mother, son and nieces. They look up to me,” says Caine-Campbell.

The new graduate credits her family’s ongoing support for her accomplishments. Both she and her son were in school together and motivating herself with her studies aided her son’s success as well, she said.

“Without my family cheering me on, I wouldn’t be here. I’m happy to be able to show them that no matter what happens, you can never give up,” says Caine-Campbell. “Never stop believing in yourself and work hard.”

Keiser University’s 2024 Commencement Ceremony took place at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers. This symbolizes a tangible achievement for Caine-Campbell, who aspires to encourage others through her accomplishments.

“We’re very proud of Aline Caine-Campbell for her dedication, perseverance and commitment to achieving her goal. Like many Keiser University students, she had to overcome a series of obstacles in her relentless pursuit of knowledge, and we congratulate her for her achievement,” said Keiser University’s President Amy Teprovich.

As Caine-Campbell embarks on taking her education and passion to new heights, she has demonstrated that even the most daunting challenges can be conquered.

“Next year, I want to get my bachelor of science in nursing because I want to be a midwife. I have already begun applying and currently work in a hospital as a tech. My co-workers know what a hard worker I am and are excited for me to get on the floor as a nurse. They all know how much I love babies,” she says. “I love my patients! I treat everyone well, and it reflects. Everyone always makes comments about how much the patients care for me and how they treat me when I walk into the room.”

While pursuing her academic and professional aspirations, Caine-Campbell’s story of triumph will undoubtedly continue to inspire others.

“Caine-Campbell has set a high standard for future nursing students to aspire to, and her impact will be felt for years to come,” says McNealy.

“I hope to go to schools to give motivational speeches and encourage young girls and boys to be what they want to be,” says Caine-Campbell. “Never give up on your dream. It might take years, with some breaks, but keep going.

“Keiser University molded me; they gave me the tools for success,” she said, smiling. “I am excited to be a graduate!” ¦

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