As a child watching her mother work as a midwife in Africa, Providence Searer began to notice all of the helpers in her life at a young age. 

The oldest of 10 children, Searer had a great deal of responsibility in her household and enjoyed helping others. 

“Nursing is one of the best things that you can do to help people,” said Searer. 

After moving to the United States at the age of 16, Searer not only learned how to speak English, but also studied twice as hard to complete her Nursing Assistant degree.

After working as a CNA for many years, Searer made the decision to return to NTC’s Medford campus to complete her Nursing Associate Degree.

“I really enjoyed the school when I was doing my CNA, so I just came back and wanted to finish at NTC.”

Searer credits her success to the instructors who taught her along the way, including one who encouraged her to always ask her “why.”

“As long as I’m a nurse and I ask why I’m doing something or why I’m giving this medication, I can never go wrong,” said Searer.