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Macomb nursing alumna is the first in her family to graduate from college

Friday, January 31, 2025 12:00 AM

Robin Averitt
Robin Averitt, Macomb nursing alumna
Robin Averitt, a 34-year-old mom and Macomb nursing alumni, is the first in her family to earn a college degree. Her story is one of resilience, passion and support.

Robin graduated from Macomb last year with an associate degree in nursing. She is now on track to earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from the University of Detroit - Mercy (UDM.)

Dream of a college education is fueled by determination

Growing up, Robin faced financial and educational challenges. Being the first in her family to attend college, Robin did not have guidance on the importance of a college education. After struggling for a few years, Robin decided it was in her best interest to earn a college degree.

Her decision to study nursing was driven by a desire to care for others, particularly her loved ones. “Studying nursing gives me the ability to not only take care of others but also to care for those closest to me in the best way possible. It’s my way of giving back to the ones who nurtured me,” she said.

Her determination to earn her degree and the support she received through her family and Macomb’s faculty and staff helped her navigate her path to success.

Macomb helps first-generation college student thrive

At Macomb, Robin found a sense of community which was crucial to her success. She formed lasting friendships and found support among her peers. “Without the community at Macomb, I would have never made it this far. We conquered everything together,” she said.

Robin enthusiastically recommends Macomb to others and is thankful for the support she received along the way. At graduation, Robin spoke of how proud her family is of her being the first to earn a college degree.

“My family shed tears when they saw me on stage and holding my degree. Knowing what I’ve come from, they beam with pride knowing how many generational curses I shattered,” she said.

From RN to BSN

Robin is now on track to earn her BSN from UD-M, while working in the Emergency Center at Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital. Although she’s excited to work as a nurse, her long-term goal is to teach nursing students. “My daughter prays I get to teach her one day,” Robin said.

She hopes to inspire the next generation of nurses, just like her teachers inspired her.

In her free time, Robin enjoys spending time with her children, who are active in competitive dance and high school basketball. She also loves taking her Dalmatian to the dog park.

As she moves on with her career and life, she said she’ll always hold a place in her heart for Macomb. “I’m so happy that I did it. No matter what you put me through, I did it and I’m thankful for the support I got from Macomb,” she said.

If you’re interested in the opportunities that are possible through Macomb’s partnership with the University of Detroit Mercy Nursing program at Center Campus in Clinton Township, please visit our nursing program webpage.