Building Confidence and a Career at RCC: Tiffany Taylor’s Journey in Nursing
When Tiffany Taylor first chose to attend Rappahannock Community College (RCC), she admits it wasn’t the grand plan she had once imagined for herself. “I chose RCC because of my finances and it was close to home,” Tiffany explained. “Honestly, I was too afraid to leave.” But what began as a practical decision soon became a defining chapter in her life — one that shaped her career, her confidence, and her calling.
From the start, Tiffany’s biggest hope was clear: to become the best nurse she could be. Yet, her path wasn’t easy. She faced a major setback early on when she was unsuccessful in her first attempt at nursing school and had to step away. “I tried to do other things but couldn’t find any joy in them,” she recalled. “God led me back to my passion and placed people around me who supported and encouraged me to continue and be successful.”
“Dr. White was my clinical instructor for the PN program and later my nursing supervisor when I worked as a nursing care partner at Sentara Williamsburg,” said Tiffany. “My plan was to stop after PN, but again, God allowed our paths to cross, and she encouraged me to apply for the bridge program. I am so thankful for her encouragement and guidance because it continues to lead me out of my comfort zone.”
Tiffany’s time at RCC not only strengthened her professionally but also shaped her perspective on education. “Attending RCC allowed me to save money on my educational goals,” she explained. “While most of my classmates have debt from attending a four-year university, I only have debt for two years of my bachelor’s degree.”
Of all Tiffany’s experiences, the clinical component of nursing school stood out the most. “Clinical wasn’t a class, but it was my absolute favorite part. I learn best through hands-on experience,” Tiffany said. “Being in clinical gave me the chance to apply what I learned in real situations, which helped me tremendously in my nursing career.”
Tiffany’s participation in the nursing program at RCC also gave her flexibility and the ability to work and study simultaneously. “It allowed me to advance further in nursing opportunities because I could immediately apply what I learned in the classroom to my job,” she said.
Now, as an adjunct faculty member herself, she finds joy in giving back to the very community that helped her grow. “RCC was a great choice for my life and career,” Tiffany reflected. “I’m so thankful for the opportunity to connect with my students and help them find their own paths in nursing.”
For anyone considering community college, Tiffany’s advice is clear and heartfelt, “I strongly encourage it, especially for completing core classes. It saves money and sets you up for success with less debt later. Dual enrollment classes were also a huge help. They saved me time once I got to RCC.”
And to those who think RCC doesn’t offer a true college experience, she gently disagrees. “I was able to connect with so many different individuals on campus and take part in monthly activities. You really do get that sense of community and belonging.”
From doubt and discouragement to confidence and purpose, Tiffany Taylor’s story is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t depend on where you start but with the courage to begin again.