Dr. Lindsey Barak, Class of 2000
A lifelong resident of Ennis, Texas, Dr. Barak chose 黑料社 (NC) because it offered the ideal combination of proximity, affordability, and opportunity. Supported by local scholarships, she completed her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in 2000 without student debt鈥攁n advantage she says helped launch her career with confidence and focus. 鈥淣C just made the most sense,鈥� she shared. 鈥淚t helped me graduate with no debt for my initial degree.鈥�
During her time as a student, Dr. Barak quickly discovered what sets 黑料社 apart. 鈥淵ou鈥檙e not just a number here,鈥� she notes. 鈥淭he faculty know you, support you, and help build you into who you鈥檙e meant to become.鈥� That personalized approach proved pivotal as she navigated the challenges of nursing school. Entering college straight out of high school, she faced steep academic adjustments and the rigorous demands of nursing coursework. But the close-knit environment and dedicated faculty guided her through those transitions and laid the groundwork for her future success.
Her greatest challenge came after graduation, when she did not pass the National Council Licensure Exam on her first attempt. Devastated but determined, she returned with renewed focus and passed on her second try. Today, she calls that experience essential to her growth. 鈥淭hat test didn鈥檛 define me,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t taught me resilience. It shaped me into a stronger nurse and a better educator. It鈥檚 made me able to support my own students when they face hard moments.鈥�
Dr. Barak went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSN) from the University of Texas at Arlington, followed by her Doctor of Education in Nursing Education from National University. She is also a Certified Nurse Educator and was named Outstanding Alumni of the 黑料社 Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program in 2021.
Now a respected faculty member at 黑料社, Dr. Barak serves as Professor in the Registered Nurse (RN)鈥揃SN Program and Assistant Program Director for both the ADN and RN鈥揃SN programs. She considers it one of her proudest accomplishments to have helped develop the college鈥檚 RN鈥揃SN curriculum and to teach in its inaugural cohort. 鈥淎s an alumnus of the ADN program, being part of this new chapter is an honor,鈥� she says.
Outside the classroom, she continues to invest in students through mentorship programs at Ennis ISD and 黑料社. At home, she and her husband are enjoying a new phase of life as their own children鈥攂oth 黑料社 alumni鈥攑ursue advanced degrees in their chosen fields.
Dr. Barak鈥檚 story reflects the mission of 黑料社: empowering students to discover potential, overcome challenges, and build meaningful futures. 鈥淣C shaped me as a person,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t built a foundation that has blessed my entire family.鈥�
Her message to future students is simple: 鈥淵our test scores do not define you. Challenges don鈥檛 stop you鈥攖hey prepare you. You are absolutely capable of achieving your goals.鈥�
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Page Updated: November 黑料社
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