Meet 66-Year-Old New Grad Nurse Jim Segbers
When 66-year-old Jim Segbers strolled across the stage at the Goldfarb School of Nursing in April 2025, he wasn’t just picking up a diploma; he was proving that you're never too old to step into a pair of scrubs. Among the 50 graduates, Jim was the eldest, showing everyone that career changes and chasing dreams don’t come with an expiration date.
"I feel like I've got a lot to offer," Jim shared in an interview with First Alert 4 News after his big day. While many of his peers were hitting the golf course or fishing pond in retirement, Jim chose to dive into healthcare—a field he'd always been curious about. And let's face it, who needs bingo when you can have clinical rotations?
A Timely Addition to the Nursing Workforce
Jim's graduation is a beacon of hope in the nursing community. As many nurses know, the profession is bracing itself for a tidal wave of demand. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing warns of an impending shortage as our beloved baby boomers age and healthcare needs skyrocket. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth in RN jobs from 2022 to 2032, with nearly 193,100 openings annually. So, if you know anyone itching for a career change, give them a gentle nudge towards nursing!
The face of the nursing student is also evolving. While fresh-faced students have traditionally filled classrooms, more and more folks are taking the scenic route into nursing. The National League for Nursing notes that 18% of BSN students are over 30, though not many are quite as seasoned as Jim.
Dr. Maria Johnson, the Dean at Goldfarb School of Nursing, gave a glowing review of Jim’s journey. "Jim brings life experience and perspective that enriches our entire program," she said. "His dedication shows that nursing truly is a profession open to anyone with the passion and commitment to care for others."
Inspiring the Younger Generation
Jim's classmates found him to be a source of inspiration. "Whenever I felt overwhelmed by exams or clinical rotations, seeing Jim tackle the same challenges with such determination gave me strength," said Sarah Williams, a 24-year-old graduate.
Jim’s family, including his three grandchildren, cheered him on at graduation. His wife of 40 years, Linda, mentioned that it wasn’t always smooth sailing. "There were late nights studying and times when the technology aspects were frustrating, but he never considered giving up." And let’s be honest, who hasn’t wanted to throw their computer out the window during an online module?
Older students like Jim bring a treasure trove of life skills to the table. Research in the Journal of Nursing Education shows that they often excel in communication, emotional resilience, and problem-solving—qualities any nurse would love to have in their toolkit.
Upon graduating, Jim’s university wished him congratulations via Instagram:
A New Chapter in Geriatric Care
Jim is setting his sights on geriatric care, where he feels his age will help him connect with patients on a deeper level. "I understand what many older patients are going through because I'm experiencing similar things myself," he explained. "That creates an immediate bond of trust."
Jim’s story is a powerful reminder that there’s no expiration date on purpose. As the nursing world braces for growing workforce challenges, stories like his show us that the next generation of nurses isn’t limited by age—it’s fueled by heart, resilience, and the courage to start something new.
Whether you're 18 or 66, if you feel the call to care for others, there's a place for you in this profession. Nursing isn’t just a career—it’s a calling that welcomes every story, every background, and every brave new beginning.
It’s never too late to chase the life you were meant for!
🤔Have you ever made a bold career move later in life, or thought about it? Share your comments down below!
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