MOUNT OLIVE – Lindsey Tew, a junior in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Mount Olive, exemplifies resilience and passion for healthcare.

After overcoming significant health challenges, Tew returned to college motivated to pursue a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others.

Originally from Spivey’s Corner, Tew lives in Broad Creek, just outside Morehead City.

Tew’s path to UMO began in the fall of 2024. Her interest in healthcare began in her sophomore year of high school.

“I signed up for a CNA class, but it was full. My advisor suggested I take EMT basics instead. I agreed and fell in love with it,” Tew said.

At 18, Tew became a certified EMT. She has worked in EMS for about seven years, gaining experience at Dunn Emergency Services, Duke Health, Otway Fire and EMS, and Down East Fire Department.

Tew has also volunteered at several Sampson County EMS departments. Her extensive work in this area has fueled her determination to make an even more significant impact as a nurse.

Tew’s journey has not been without challenges. At age 15, she was given a five percent chance to survive after contracting multiple life-threatening infections.

Despite being confined to a hospital bed, Tew held onto her faith, drawing strength from Bible verses and uplifting music.

“I never gave up and never questioned why,” Tew said. “I just knew I wanted to go home and, one day, to help others the way I had been helped.”

With aspirations to become a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) nurse, Tew credits UMO’s supportive environment with helping her stay focused, even during recent hospitalizations.

“UMO has been incredible, providing the flexibility I need to stay on track,” Tew said. “The nursing faculty here prepare us to not only pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) but also to be compassionate nurses who see each patient as a person, not just a diagnosis,” she said.

Tew’s journey has been a source of inspiration for many. She has shared her personal testimony at Shady Grove OFWB Church and spoken at healthcare conferences, including a respiratory conference in New Orleans, where she presented “The Patient’s Perspective on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO).”

Through her presentations, Tew spreads hope and highlights the profound impact healthcare providers can have on their patients.

Through her journey, Tew has learned invaluable lessons, including the importance of not jumping to conclusions and of seeing the bigger picture. Her message to other adults considering a return to education is simple.

“Do it,” Tew said. “Returning to college has introduced me to lifelong friends and given me a renewed sense of purpose. UMO’s tagline of ‘transforming lives and transforming education’ resonates deeply with me, as UMO has truly transformed my life.”

With a perfect 4.0 GPA, Tew is well on her way to her spring 2026 graduation and her ultimate dream of working in pediatric healthcare.

“I feel that God has made nursing my calling and completing my degree at UMO has transformed me into a better person,” Tew said.