#ABetterU: Meet Drexel Online Graduate Kelly Gallo

Kelly Gallo '13, RN to BSN

Life is fast and often stressful. It seems that there is always more to be done than can be in any given day. Drexel University Online graduate Kelly Gallo didn’t let any of that hold her back when she decided to go back to school to pursue her RN to BSN degree.

“After 20 years, returning to school is a daunting thought,” said Gallo. “But, with each step towards my BSN, I knew I made the right choice to complete my degree and open doors for the future.”

Working as a patient care navigator for Inova Health System in Washington, D.C., Gallo works full time while raising a family. Online education provided Gallo with the means to increase her credentials during times that best fit her busy schedule.

After deciding online education was the best route for her, she chose Drexel “because of the excellent reputation of the University, the partnership with my employer and the online course flexibility.” Gallo noted that the aspect she liked best about Drexel’s online BSN program is how the curriculum and coursework were “relevant to today’s healthcare arena.”

As the economy has led to tougher times and tighter budgets over the years, working professionals have become more budget savvy. Gallo took advantage of her employer’s partnership with Drexel University Online, which allowed her to receive reduced tuition rates.

“The cost of higher education can be cost prohibitive and the discount makes it a little more affordable,” said Gallo. “As employers require and encourage nurses to complete their BSN, the added incentive of discounted tuition makes a difference.”

Adults often wage an internal battle on whether to go back to school. What does Gallo have to think about that?

“Start as soon as you can! Don’t wait. Even if it’s one class at a time, the progress feels like such an accomplishment!”

Gallo graduated from the RN to BSN program in 2013 and is now enrolled in Drexel University Online’s MSN Women's Health/Gender Related Nurse Practitioner program.

To be featured as our next student or alumni in our #ABetterU series, please email Sabrina Ram at sr62@drexel.edu.