Some journeys take longer than expected, but they’re no less powerful. Amber Murray, a 40-year-old nursing student at La Salle University, is proof that determination, hard work, and hope can overcome almost anything. Her path to becoming a nurse has spanned two decades, filled with challenges and setbacks—but also growth, learning, and incredible resilience. Now, she’s just steps away from achieving the dream she started chasing 20 years ago.
A Career in Healthcare Before Nursing
Amber’s interest in nursing began right after high school. She enrolled in college to study nursing, but like many people, life took her on a different route. By the time she was 20, she was already working in healthcare as a medical records technician. She quickly moved up, becoming a medical assistant by 2007. Over the years, she worked across many specialties including cardiovascular, family medicine, bariatrics, and colorectal surgery.
Her job was more than paperwork. She drew blood, assisted in procedures, managed patient histories, and even dealt with insurance issues. This real-world experience gave her a solid foundation in patient care, but she never gave up on her dream of becoming a registered nurse.
Why La Salle Was the Right Choice
When Amber decided to return to school, she needed a program that could work around her full-time job and family responsibilities. That’s why she chose La Salle University’s Achieve Program, which offers evening and weekend classes for working adults.
“La Salle’s program made it possible for me to finally finish what I started,” she said. It wasn’t just about convenience. Amber found herself at the top of her class, surrounded by supportive classmates and faculty who understood the challenges adult learners face.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Just as Amber was preparing to enter her final year in 2024, she noticed a lump in her breast. She considered skipping the check-up because of her age and lack of family history. But her instincts—and her training—kicked in.
“I always tell patients to trust their gut. So, I had to take my own advice,” she said.
That decision may have saved her life. In August 2024, just one week before her senior year started, she was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer. But even that didn’t stop her.
“I told my professor, Dr. Mindy Tait, that cancer wasn’t going to stop me from becoming a nurse,” she said. Together, they came up with a plan to keep her enrolled and on track.
Staying Strong Through Treatment and Study
Amber underwent chemotherapy, surgery, and continued treatment with the drug Herceptin—all while keeping up with her nursing studies. She even finished her fall clinicals ahead of schedule, before undergoing surgery in September 2024. La Salle supported her at every step, providing flexible options so she could manage both her health and her education.
Despite everything, Amber stayed active in the La Salle nursing community. She’s a member of SNAP (Student Nurses’ Association of Pennsylvania), Sigma Theta Tau, the Tri-Alpha Honor Society for first-generation students, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. She’s even preparing for induction into Alpha Epsilon and has been nominated for a senior award.
A Message of Hope
Amber credits her success to her support system—her family, classmates, professors, and friends who encouraged her along the way. But at the heart of her journey is her own strength.
“Don’t give up on your dream,” she said. “Life will get in the way. But if you want it badly enough, it’s possible.”
Amber Murray’s story is a powerful reminder that dreams don’t expire. Whether it takes two years or twenty, what matters is staying committed and pushing forward. With a strong heart, a sharp mind, and the right support, Amber didn’t just survive her challenges—she turned them into stepping stones. Now, she’s not just a nursing graduate—she’s an inspiration to anyone who’s ever had to press pause on their dreams. Her journey proves that it’s never too late to finish what you started.
