Kimberly Barickman
Major : Nursing with a minor in Psychology
Hometown : West Chester, PA
The desire to help others – a simple thought but one that drove Kimberly Barickman to return to college and earn her degree in nursing. She will achieve this goal in May 2008 when she graduates from Neumann College with a degree in nursing and a minor in psychology. This married mother of two grown children is eager to use the knowledge that her Neumann professors have given her over the past four years and start her work in the health care field.
“I knew that I wanted something that is going to be challenging, and I knew that I wanted patient contact. That’s what I thrive on,” she says.
As a non-traditional student, Kimberly had some doubts about returning to the classroom with students that are close in age to her own children. She found a warm and welcoming place with fellow students who embraced her and professors who supported her educational journey.
“I think that Neumann is an excellent college for the non-traditional student. They just are willing to tweak things so that your education fits your needs. I’m in with a wonderful group of kids. They call me mom, which is okay. I have a good time with them. They’re great kids,” Kimberly notes.
The fact that Neumann is a Catholic college framed in the Franciscan traditions appealed to Kimberly and she found that the college actually practices what it preaches. “I knew that it was a Franciscan school and I liked the ideals of that, and I felt they would take care of me better as a non-traditional student, as they have above and beyond.”
The availability and flexibility of the Neumann professors have impressed and amazed Kimberly both in and out of the nursing division.
“That’s what I found at Neumann, the willingness of the professors. They’re always willing to help you. I have professors that are unbelievable. I’ve never had a door closed. I find them phenomenal. I have had the most wonderful instructors. That’s what I was looking,” she says.
While Kimberly found Neumann to be a warm and welcoming place, she is quick to point out the seriousness of the nursing program and the commitment level needed by students to succeed. “Be ready to work hard,” she advises.
