From Rivalry to Real Ones: How Nursing School Forged an Unbreakable Bond

Before the long nights of studying, the early mornings, and the chaos of clinicals, Kaleigh and Amanda were rivals, though they didn't know each other yet. Both were high school band kids, marching with pride for different schools, unknowingly competing against each other on the field.

"We were kind of unspoken rivals," Kaleigh laughs. "We went to different high schools, both in marching band. But back then, I had no idea she'd become one of the most important people in my life."

Nursing school has a way of revealing people's true colors. The pressure, the pace, and the emotional weight either push you apart or bring you together. For Kaleigh and Amanda, it did the latter. Their friendship was built during long days, stressful tests, and sleepless nights. But it wasn't all grit and grind.

"You know what was amazing?" Kaleigh reflects. "School was tough. I cried. I pulled out my hair. I missed meals, missed vacations, didn't sleep. But I got to do it with my friends. That's the best part of it."

Amanda wasn't just a friend. She became Kaleigh's anchor.

"She was right beside me through all of it," Kaleigh says. "Amanda was in front of me alphabetically, so during graduation, we were right next to each other. There's just poetry in that. No matter where I looked at school, she was always there."

The two weren't just classmates. They became a team, supporting each other through every test, every clinical, and every moment of doubt.

"I didn't have to water myself down with Amanda," Kaleigh says with emotion. "We got to water each other. I didn't have to change who I was. I was accepted, just as I am, for what I wanted to do with my life. I'm just glad I got to be part of her story and her journey."

Amanda remembers their first encounter clearly. "Kaleigh came in and sat beside me, and she could tell I was nervous," she says. "She started making jokes about how we're the same height. She had already done a semester of the program, and it was just a lot of laughter right away. For our first interaction, it just took off."

That shared sense of humor and mutual understanding became the glue in their friendship. They weren't just two girls in scrubs. They were a lifeline for one another.

"It helps so much having someone who completely understands what you're going through because they're going through it too," Amanda shares. "To have someone to help study with, to vent with. There were days when we had a test, and during the drive to school, we'd be on the phone yelling random facts from the PowerPoint just trying to remember everything. It was ridiculous, but it helped."

Their bond went far beyond books and exams. It was about shared dreams and mutual respect. It was about being seen, heard, and loved in a space that can often feel overwhelming and isolating.

"Not everyone gets it," Kaleigh says. "Not all your high school friends or other friends understand what nursing school is like. But Amanda did. She gets me. I get her. And that made all the difference."

Now, as they step into the next chapter of their nursing careers, Kaleigh and Amanda do so knowing that whatever comes next, they've already weathered the storm together.

"They're my friends forever," Kaleigh says, smiling. "And they don't have a choice."

Tags: College College Educated College Prepared Pathway Pathway to a Future Start Your Pathway Students College Newsletter

Back to The News   Share with a Friend

Contact Us