Salkehatchie Graduate Sets Her Sights on a Nursing Degree

Hardeeville resident Chinwe earned her Associate of Science degree from USC Salkehatchie in 2026 and is now preparing to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offered through USC Salkehatchie’s partnership with USC Beaufort.

From the beginning, Chinwe’s dedication and sense of purpose stood out.

“Upon our very first meeting, Chinwe immediately impressed me as a focused and driven student,” said Anna Carol Ptacin, Nursing Program Coordinator. “Her thoughtful questions and initiative reflect someone who is serious about her goals and excited about her future in nursing.”

Chinwe credits the guidance she received at USC Salkehatchie with helping her successfully navigate college and remain focused on her goals.

“The staff at USC Salkehatchie guided me, which allowed me to make very few mistakes while working toward my goals,” Chinwe said.

Financial Aid Director Georgeann Williams played an especially important role in helping Chinwe continue her education and understand the financial aid process.

“She was an absolute lifesaver throughout the entire process,” Chinwe said. “She was incredibly supportive, knowledgeable and patient as she walked me through everything. She gave me clear, helpful instructions on how to navigate the financial side of making my education possible.”

One of Chinwe’s favorite memories was learning that a USC Salkehatchie professor led an archaeological dig in Allendale County that uncovered evidence of human activity dating back approximately 13,000 years.

For Chinwe, earning her associate degree was a meaningful first step toward her future.

“USC Salkehatchie allowed me to earn my first university degree,” she said. “It has helped me feel more confident and focused than I have in a while.”

As she prepares for the next chapter, Chinwe encourages incoming students to take advantage of the support available to them.

“Ask questions,” she said. “The staff at USC Salkehatchie have answers for just about any situation you give them. They truly think outside the box when needed.”

With her associate degree complete, Chinwe is excited to continue her education and work toward her goal of earning a BSN. Through USC Salkehatchie’s nursing partnership with USC Beaufort, she will be able to complete her entire BSN journey right here at the Salkehatchie campus while remaining close to home and her community.

“Thanks to the support and guidance I received, I am confidently on track to complete what feels like a full-circle dream come true,” she said. “I’m so excited for this next chapter.”

“USC Salkehatchie allowed me to earn my first university degree,” she said. “It has helped me feel more confident and focused than I have in a while.”