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Flanders Finds Supportive Community at UT Tyler

FlandersAs the seventh of 12 children, Rebekah Flanders of Tyler was always surrounded with a large support system as her parents and siblings are some of her “favorite people on earth.” She found an additional supportive community among faculty and staff in the UT Tyler School of Nursing. 

The UT Tyler senior said she noticed faculty and staff have been working diligently to help reduce the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had, and will have, on her UT Tyler education.

“They have been so flexible this past year and continue to do everything they can to help us succeed,” said Flanders, who will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in nursing next summer. “They have persevered despite the ever-changing situation and I really admire that. That grit and adaptability is an important skill to have as a nurse, and I’m grateful we have such great examples of it here at UT Tyler.”

A Tyler native, Flanders knew about the University, always living just a few miles from the main campus. She and her siblings enjoyed exploring the campus grounds as children with their parents.

“The school was never really on my radar until a few of my older siblings started taking classes there,” said Flanders, who wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. “After researching the nursing program and hearing so many good things about it from family and friends, I decided to apply – and I’m so glad I did.”

Not only does Flanders appreciate UT Tyler’s supportive community, she also enjoys the beauty of the campus and the small class sizes the University provides.

“Everyone here wants you to do well and are so encouraging, and you really get to know your classmates and teachers, which is always a bonus in my book,” she said. “Plus, it’s always so fun studying outdoors near the lake and getting to see all the wildlife and pretty sunsets.”

And although Flanders feels like she’s only getting started on her path towards a successful nursing career, through UT Tyler she’s already learned how to support a team, work hard, balance a busy schedule, stand up for what she believes in and persevere through difficult times.

“I want to say thank you to my family, friends, teachers and fellow students who have supported and encouraged me along the way,” she said. “I couldn’t have gotten this far without with all of the love, support and prayers.

Flanders’ career interests include pediatric oncology, surgery and travel nursing. She enjoys the outdoors, trying new recipes, listening to music and podcasts, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

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