As a nursing student deeply committed to joining a profession that literally keeps our communities alive, I am alarmed by the Department of Education’s proposed changes to the federal loan policy. These changes could significantly affect the eligibility of nursing programs by redefining what qualifies as a "professional degree." This threatens the crucial access to federal student loans that thousands of nursing students rely on.

Nursing school is already a physically, mentally, and financially demanding endeavor. The high tuition costs, coupled with the requirement to complete extensive clinical hours, make it nearly impossible for students like me to maintain a job during my studies. Federal loans are not just a financial aid option, but a necessity that enables us to afford essentials like tuition, books, uniforms, and cover the costs of countless unpaid clinical hours required for our degrees.

This proposed policy change could undermine the dreams and futures of countless aspiring nurses. Without access to these affordable loans, many students would face insurmountable financial barriers, deterring them from completing their degrees and thereby impacting the healthcare system at large. The ripple effect of this decision could reduce the influx of freshly graduated nurses joining the workforce, further straining our healthcare services.

I, along with many others, am not just fighting for my educational future, but for every potential nurse. This policy change threatens not only our careers but also the stability and quality of care within the nation’s healthcare system. We need more qualified nurses, not fewer. Our healthcare system’s sustainability depends on the skilled professionals stepping into these roles, prepared and well-trained.

Let us urge the Department of Education to reconsider this decision and ensure nursing programs remain eligible for federal student loans. Support our future nurses, secure their education, and maintain the vitality of our healthcare system.

Please sign this petition and stand with us in preserving the essential financial support nursing students need to succeed.