Blog Summary: Congratulations to our Dreambound scholarship winner, James Hamm! Currently enrolled at Pima Medical Institute, James is on his journey to becoming a registered nurse. His inspiring story takes him from soldier to nurse, showcasing his resilience and deep compassion for saving lives.

Introduction

"The biggest obstacle, I would say, is taking the first step, you know, 'cause people fear change. But how can things change without acting on it?" – James Hamm

At Dreambound, we believe that taking that first step is crucial to achieving one’s dreams. We are proud to introduce James Hamm, the winner of the Dreambound Scholarship. His dedication to saving lives and serving others perfectly embodies the values that Dreambound promotes. Our mission is to help people start new careers by matching them with education. James's journey is a remarkable story of resilience and bravery, and we’re excited to share his inspiring path toward becoming a registered nurse.

From Childhood Dreams to a Life of Service and Sacrifice

James’s journey began with a childhood dream of becoming an orthodontist. However, life took him on a different path. Instead of pursuing higher education immediately after high school, he entered the workforce, starting his career in a warehouse, where he worked from age 18 until he turned 25.

Seeking greater purpose and new challenges, James enlisted in the Army at 25. In the military, James was exposed to first aid and basic medical training, sparking an interest in healthcare. “We had to take non-healthcare classes but like first aid type, learning stuff like that. That’s what really sparked it,” he recounts.

His four years of military service instilled discipline and a strong sense of duty. Though his time in the military came with challenges, including injuries sustained during his deployment to Afghanistan, these experiences shaped his resilience. “When I got out of the army, it wasn’t by choice. I was injured. So, they medically retired me,” he explains. While the injuries brought physical limitations, they also fueled his determination to continue making a difference, leading him to pursue a new path in nursing.

Transitioning to Civilian Life and Discovering Nursing

After leaving the military, James spent eight years working in the mortgage industry with his father-in-law. While the job offered stability, he felt the need for something more meaningful. “I was always interested in healthcare type stuff,” he admits, realizing it was time for a change.

James explored different healthcare fields, including respiratory therapy and radiology, but nursing stood out. “Nursing’s more broad spectrum. You take care of more things,” he explains. “As a nurse, you’re giving total care—not only physically, but you're also emotionally there for them.” This comprehensive care approach aligned perfectly with his desire to help others.

Educational Journey and Overcoming Challenges

Enrolling in an accelerated associate’s nursing program, James embraced the challenge of returning to school after two decades. “The biggest obstacle, I would say, is taking the first step, you know, 'cause people fear change. But how can things change without acting on it?” he reflects. Balancing academic responsibilities with his personal life required immense discipline. Initially, James thought his age would be a challenge, but he soon discovered that his maturity and life experience were assets. Despite not having a medical background, James found nursing school enjoyable and rewarding, fueled by new friendships and daily opportunities for learning.

Future Aspirations: From Bedside to Beyond

James is currently halfway through his associate’s nursing program at Pima Medical Institute and has clear plans for the future. “Once I finish this program, I think I'll be the first one in my immediate family to get a degree,” he proudly shares. His ambitions extend beyond an associate’s degree, with plans to continue on to a bachelor’s in nursing. Passionate about bedside care, James is especially drawn to pediatrics, aspiring to work directly with children and make a meaningful impact in their lives. He also sees the possibility of giving back by becoming a nurse educator, using his experience to support others and extend his influence beyond patient care.

Lessons Learned and Advice for Others

Reflecting on a recent classroom discussion about the advice he would give his younger self, he remarked, don’t give up too easily: "Sometimes your goal is right past that obstacle and you don’t realize it.”

His advice for Dreambound students? “Just do it. You’re not going to know unless you do it... Nothing comes easy without adversity."

James’s journey from military veteran to aspiring nurse embodies strength and commitment. His story reminds us that every challenge is an opportunity for growth and making a difference. With his mantra of “just do it” and the belief in not giving up so easily, he shows that it’s never too late to pursue our passions. Supported by Dreambound, James is forging a future where he can save lives and make a profound impact in healthcare, inspiring us all to embrace our dreams, persist through adversity, and keep moving forward.