From Forensics to the NICU: Jerobeon’s Journey to Purpose

Before stepping into nursing, he had already proven his resilience and drive. He earned his first degree, a B.S. in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Science, from UT Martin in 2017. He paid his own way through college, cheered for UT Martin, and made the most of his transfer experience after beginning on a full scholarship at Bethel. By every traditional measure, he was on a strong professional track.

After graduation, he accepted a position with the State of Tennessee as a Social Worker in Children’s Services. It was meaningful work, and he built a solid foundation in his career, but something inside him still felt unsettled. He often described it as being “unfulfilled,” a sense that there was more he was meant to do.

In 2023, he took a leap of faith and applied to the University of Memphis Loewenberg College of Nursing, Lambuth campus. Once accepted, he resigned from his job and committed fully to this new path. His first semester was challenging as he adjusted to life after leaving a stable career. Even during those difficult moments, he stayed grounded in prayer and trusted that he was moving in the right direction.

His perseverance paid off. After completing his first semester, he applied for scholarships and was awarded the STRONG-RN Scholarship from LCON, which covered most of his nursing program. Receiving this funding was confirmation that every step, even the uncertain ones, had purpose behind them.

During our Major and Career Exploration conversation, it became clear where his heart lives: with babies, children, and families. His shift from social work to nursing wasn’t a detour, it was a full-circle moment. He once served children from one side of the system; now he is preparing to serve them from another, more healing one.

Today, Jerobeon is interning at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where he supports the most vulnerable patients and the families who love them. His compassion, patience, and purpose-driven spirit make him a natural fit.

And now, he’s just days away from completing his second degree and graduating, a milestone that symbolizes not only academic success but a deep, personal transformation. Jerobeon’s story is a reminder that purpose sometimes whispers before it roars, and following it can change everything.