RN-BSN Student Highlight: Tracy Nordmann

It’s time for another UofL Online student highlight! Today we’re thrilled to highlight Tracy Nordmann, an online RN-BSN nursing student who will complete the program Summer 2025. Check out her responses to our interview questions below!  

What is your name and your current program of study? 
My name is Tracy Nordmann and I’m a student in UofL’s online RN to BSN program. 

Where are you from?  
I am from Louisville, Kentucky but I grew up in Chicago, then lived in Atlanta for 20 years. During those years I attained my LPN license and while doing travel LPN, I decided to go back to school and attain my RN from Henderson Community College. 

How did you get involved with UofL’s online RN-BSN program?  
While in that program I was offered to be part of the pilot program and be one of the first LPN’s that bridged in an RN program to also do dual enrollment at University of Louisville RN-BSN program as I complete my RN program. I started in the summer of 2024 at UofL. 

What was your academic experience prior to this program?  
I graduated from Henderson Community College with my RN in December 2024. I received my RN license in January 2025. 

I knew I would go back and get my BSN and anticipated waiting a few years, but since I was offered a grant scholarship to attend, I made the choice and was in both programs at the same time. I thought maybe I was crazy (and so did my friends), but I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. So, I talked to my advisor at UofL, Colleen Costar, and explained my thought process. I wanted to get it done as quickly as I could. She devised a unique plan so I can get through the program quickly. And it is working! I have two classes left for this summer and I will be graduating this year! 

The program allowed me to have the flexibility to make this happen. I spoke with my advisor and instructors throughout the program, always gaining insight on how to attain what I wanted to accomplish. 

What were some of the challenges you experienced over this program?  
Many times, I didn’t feel I could get through the semesters, but I persevered. I found ways to manage my schedule to allow me to go to two programs, work part time and travel back and forth to Atlanta when I needed to.  

I also had many family issues happen throughout the program. I did apply for grants and was awarded them just for applying. So, I am forever grateful for the encouragement to apply and getting the help I need to continue to pursue my degree. Many times, I truly thought I would have to quit because I didn’t have the means. 

Where do you work now?  
I currently work at Ascension St Thomas Midtown as an Oncology nurse in Nashville, TN. 

What are your plans after graduation?  
To pursue my nurse practitioner license. 

What are your career aspirations? How will this degree help you to pursue those passions?  
This degree allows me to be more knowledgeable on many aspects in my field. I see it working already while in my career. 

What would you want to communicate to other students considering this program? 
Take the BIG LEAP! Don’t wait to pursue your education further! Apply for scholarships because you never know how and when it can help you.