DeAnna Holmes, a senior majoring in health care management, is the mother of three and battling breast cancer. However, Holmes is taking major strides to accomplish her goals and make her dreams a reality at Clayton State University.
“In 2007, I was a junior underwriter with Wachovia Mortgage, and I decided that it was time for a change,” Holmes says. “I decided it was time for me to do something that I knew I would enjoy doing. I obtained my associates degree in science at South University in 2007, graduating magna cum laude with a 3.67 GPA.”
After Holmes graduated from South University she moved to Georgia.
“Once I got toGeorgiaI knew that I didn’t want to end (my education) there and decided to attendGordonCollegefor nursing,” she says. “However, my plan fell through. I then transferred toClaytonStatefor nursing and that’s when cancer struck. After that I decided to change my major to Health Care Management.”
Holmes did not let cancer get in the way of accomplishing her dreams.
“My strong upbringing from my parents and my determination to be a good example for my children is what keeps me motivated to excel in school,” Holmes explains.
Holmes is indeed determined. Every Friday she receives chemotherapy, which sometimes leaves her exhausted, which can be challenging. Despite the challenge, on the days when she is feeling exhausted Holmes motivates herself to come to campus earlier in the day to keep her focused and stay active.
“Being a full time student I have to balance my children’s activities as well to make sure I’m there for them and I pray, pray, pray,” Holmes says.
Holmes looks forward to graduating fromClaytonStatein May 2013. She plans to obtain a healthcare management position in an oncology or cardiology department.
“I would also like to work in an executive department, to make sure that the doctors and hospital staff do their part to make sure every patient is being properly cared for in an effort to decrease the amount of unnecessary accidental deaths,” she says.