Student Profiles: Tracy Cooley

‌Class of 2017 | Nursing

Tracy Cooley, Class of 2017 Valedictorian, graduated Summa Cum Laude from Bristol with a degree in nursing and is now a student in the UMass Dartmouth BSN program. She proudly served in the United States Army as a combat medic stationed in Germany. It was during this time, supporting soldiers and their families, that she first became interested in helping others as a medical professional.

“I attended my first college class over 25 years ago, but I didn’t get far before my life took another path. My journey to get to this stage may not have consisted of all formal education, however, it definitely consisted of learning.”

After returning home, Tracy worked in the technology field for a national construction company for 14 years before enrolling at Bristol Community College, as an adult learner, to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. She credits her accomplishments to the college’s professors who “truly care about students and their success” and her husband and two sons for their support.

“There are endless benefits to attending a community college, which is why I love Bristol,” Tracy says. “It is affordable and has a wide variety of classes, including online offerings. You can take just one class or you can pursue a certificate or degree program. You can go part-time or full-time. There are many options that can fit into our busy lives.”