UIC alumna Sandra Ann Kline shares her empowering RN to BSN journey

Meet Sandra Ann Kline, an alumna from the University of Illinois Chicago’s online RN to BSN program. With over 40 years of experiencing work as an RN, Kline has navigated various roles in nursing, from floor nursing to education programs. She eventually specialized in ambulatory surgery where she has been for the past 29 years.  

Despite her extensive experience, Sandra had always aspired to earn her bachelor’s degree. While balancing her career, family, and personal goal to teach, she graduated from UIC’s online RN to BSN program in 2022. Reflecting on her journey through UIC’s online RN-BSN program, Sandra shares insights on her admiration for the program’s faculty, impactful nursing courses, and the practical application of her education in nursing practice. 

Can you provide a brief overview of your background? 

I went to high school and earned my nurse’s aide certification in 1980. Then, while working as a nurse’s aide, I obtained my associate degree shortly after. I have been working as an RN for 40 years. During this time, I have had the opportunity to engage in various roles, including floor nursing, education programs, marketing, and nurse recruiting. 

For the past 29 years, I have been working in ambulatory surgery. However, I always wanted to earn my bachelor’s degree. I initially attempted to return to school in 1990-91 and took about four classes, but due to my home situation, it wasn’t feasible at the time. 

Fortunately, my highly supportive husband encouraged me to pursue my bachelor’s degree. I followed his advice and graduated in 2022. Alongside my regular job, I’m also teaching high school students, which was a personal goal. The support and encouragement from my teachers and advisors significantly influenced my journey. 

Reflecting on your experience in the online RN-BSN program, which courses resonated with you the most, and why? 

I remember my teachers more vividly than the classes, which speaks to their impact. My teachers were exceptional. Dr. Nancy Innella and Angeline Brooker, with whom I took two classes each, were incredibly supportive and encouraging. For example, the NURS 316: Informatics course was taught by Nancy Innella. It was a great introduction to all the data, information, and resources available to us as nurses. It gave me a better understanding of our changing world. 

My research and statistics courses also stood out because the material was new to me. The NURS 322: Introduction to Nursing Research Statistics course broadened my interests in reading research papers and certainly understanding them much better. 

Can you discuss a specific project or assignment that left a lasting impact on you? 

One memorable project was in the NURS 385: Care of Population course. The project involved selecting a town and studying its population. We identified high-risk groups and analyzed healthcare needs within the community. This hands-on experience, which explored the factors that influence different populations, was very impactful. 

Another assignment which covered studying various religions was incredibly useful for a nurse dealing with diverse patients. This class helped me better understand different cultures and religions, emphasizing the importance of respecting a patient’s healthcare decision. 

Can you share a work project or challenge where your education from the online RN-BSN program played a significant role in your success? 

One of the challenges I faced was the significant amount of writing in the program. As a slower reader, I often spent 40 to 50 hours a week on homework. However, this extensive practice greatly improved my writing skills. This improvement allowed me to address a problem with antibiotic use among our patients by conducting research, developing a plan, and changing our care procedures. I even wrote an article about it, which was published within my work’s system—something I wouldn’t have the confidence to do before. 

Additionally, I contributed to writing papers for our Pathways to Excellence program. My work is the first ambulatory surgery center in the world to achieve this designation, and I know my enhanced writing skills helped contribute to that success. 

What advice would you offer to nurses who are considering enrolling in the program? 

You need to be self-motivated and set aside time for homework. Communication with teachers is key. I felt like all my teachers wanted me to succeed. For instance, I had to have surgery during the program, but as long as I communicated and stayed on top of my assignments, the instructors were willing to work with me. 

Although the program could be time-consuming, it was a wonderful opportunity. It provided a well-rounded view of nursing and each class built on the last regardless of the order you take them in. This cumulative learning approach was very helpful.