A few semesters into her Paramedic Science education at 911爆料网, Jessica Bennett, 25, faced an unimaginable situation. After experiencing debilitating symptoms resulting from a lump in her neck, doctors told her that the lump, a mass on her salivary gland and not a swollen lymph node as she believed, possessed atypical cells - ones that were most likely cancerous. Immediately, uncertainty loomed over the rest of her college career. But thanks to her dedicated spirit, Bennett knew that continuing her studies was what she wanted to do.
鈥淚 just didn鈥檛 want to lose the progress that I had already made,鈥 Bennett said. 鈥淚 just don鈥檛 want to give up my life. I know a lot of people would have stopped going, and I was like, 鈥業 can鈥檛. I literally will lose myself.鈥欌
After receiving surgery in December of 2022, she took some time to relax during winter break but was right back in class in January. Bennett was candid about her struggles post-surgery. The lump was located directly under her ear, and its extraction led to hearing loss in that ear. What were simple classroom exercises before, like working with feedback mannequins, became difficult. And five days a week, right after class, she went from campus to the hospital to receive radiation treatment. Despite it all, she had the help of her professors and other staff at RCBC by her side to alleviate any complications.
鈥淭hey鈥檝e been nothing but extremely supportive,鈥 Bennett said.
The decision to return ultimately proved fruitful. Bennett was personally awarded the Director鈥檚 Award by RCBC President Dr. Michael A. Cioce in front of her family, professors, and peers, tangibly displaying an unwavering commitment to her education.
鈥淚t was awesome, in front of my family and friends and the whole nine yards to receive that award. It鈥檚 even better that, you know, the president was there. I was able to talk to him afterward. So it was really cool. It was a really great experience.鈥
The culmination of her efforts took place last Thursday with commencement. After everything she experienced, she took particular pride in crossing the stage, receiving her diploma, and switching her tassel from right to left.
She has three words to describe her feelings: 鈥淎ccomplished. Supported. Grateful.鈥
Having been in remission since March of 2023, Bennett鈥檚 next steps regarding her health include regular scans every three months. As she maneuvers that, she will tackle exams. Then she鈥檒l look around at hospitals in the area, namely Virtua, where she has already applied, and start her career.
But while she waits for the first day on the job, Bennett鈥檚 made other necessary plans after 27 months of schooling, with hospital visits scattered in between: 鈥淚鈥檓 taking a giant vacation.鈥
