At 52, Annie Peck is embarking on a new career, one she didn’t see coming until about seven years ago.
“We moved to Austin, and suddenly I realized it was time for a change,” she says. “I spent 20 years as a claims adjuster. I didn’t hate my job, but I knew I wanted more.”
Peck enrolled at Austin Community College with her hoped-for destination of ACC’s Nursing Program. The mother of three started taking classes part time.
“I hear so many people talk about the ACC nurses, and they all say ACC nurses are by far some of the most prepared,” she says. “That makes me feel good.”
I didn’t hate my job, but I knew I wanted more.
In December, Peck’s family watched as she crossed the stage and accepted her associate degree in nursing. She’s now preparing for the registered nurse licensure exam and has already accepted a job as an intensive-care nurse at University Medical Center Brackenridge.
“It’s been a long road,” says Peck. “I think it’s been good for my family to see that if you work hard you can do anything you want to do.”
Learn more about ACC’s Nursing Program
Peck credits her family and professors for their encouragement and support.
“There were several times along the way when balancing family and school felt overwhelming. I thought ‘I don’t know if I can do this,’ ” she admits. “But my instructors made sure I never got lost. They knew my goals and helped me achieve my dream.”
Annie graduated with a 4.0.
“I had to prove to myself I could do it,” she says. “I did, and it feels great.”
Tags: Annie Peck, Associate Degree Nursing, graduation
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By Caroline Hernandez December 20, 2016 - 10:43 pm
Congratulations Annie! Best of luck to you in your new career.
By Jody December 21, 2016 - 8:53 pm
Congratulations!! Love you from all of us in Wisconsin.
Your sister in law
Jody
By annie Peck December 24, 2016 - 11:33 pm
Thank you so much!! 🙂
By julianne January 19, 2017 - 5:07 am
Hello Congratulations! I just turned 52 and thinking about doing the nursing program too but was feeling like u was too old. Then I read about your success and same age so it gives me hope and encouragement. Thank you and best wishes.
By Jennifer O'Rourke December 21, 2016 - 10:35 pm
Congratulations Annie! I am on the same path and cannot wait to begin my new career!!! Best of luck to you!!
By annie Peck December 24, 2016 - 11:34 pm
Go for it Jennifer! It’s an awesome program!! 🙂
By Jennifer O'Rourke January 6, 2017 - 2:05 am
Thank you Annie! I fully intend to! Best of luck to you
By Teresa Kruse February 7, 2017 - 6:47 pm
Annie- How long did it take you to complete your associates in nursing from first class to last class ? I know the answer is an approximation. I think you said you started out as a part time student which is what I am considering as well. I am a young 53 now and I do have my bachelor’s in psychology which may or may not satisfy some credits. I am just wondering if I am too old ?? Will people want to hire someone who is pushing 60 ? I am not sure how long the program is and I am concerned that there is a waiting list to start the nursing program. I know I would be an amazing nurse just concerned about my age.
By Terry December 22, 2016 - 12:55 am
You rock Annie! We are all so proud of you!
By Ebony Edmondson December 22, 2016 - 2:29 pm
You are amazing and brave starting at UMCB as your first employer. You go girl! Who were your professors? I want them too. 🙂
By annie Peck December 24, 2016 - 11:36 pm
Thanks Ebony! All of the professors in the nursing program are amazing! They are so supportive and want to see you succeed! All campuses are fantastic but I loved my time at CEC!!!
By Laura December 22, 2016 - 3:10 pm
Congrats Annie! It is wonderful that you changed careers and are doing something you love.
By annie Peck December 24, 2016 - 11:36 pm
Thanks Laura! It’s never too late to try something new and inspiring! 🙂
By Julie Haynes December 22, 2016 - 8:56 pm
Congratulations! You are showing that age is not a barrier but a benefit that brings with it the maturity, focus, experience, and dedication to make you successful! Keep going strong and all the best in your new career!
By annie Peck December 24, 2016 - 11:39 pm
Thanks Julie! I’m so glad I embarked on this journey! Nursing provides so many different pathways~ I can’t wait to start the adventure!
By Heather December 29, 2016 - 3:46 am
You’re an inspiration, Annie! I’m a single mom of 2 kids, 30 years old. I’ve contemplated nursing, but i’ve always thought it was too late! Thank you!! Congratulations!
By Felix Villarreal December 31, 2016 - 3:32 pm
Annie Peck! You are awesome!
Congrats!
PRoV
By Annie peck January 6, 2017 - 3:52 pm
Pro V!!! Hi!!! Thank you! Your class was one of the best!!! 🙂
By Vonda January 1, 2017 - 10:15 pm
Annie you inspire me!! I am a 41 year old mother of two. Starting classes this semester to work towards getting into the nursing program. Thanks for sharing your story!!
By Joann January 3, 2017 - 3:17 pm
Congrats!! This is an inspiring story!!
By Latasha James January 3, 2017 - 11:59 pm
Oh WOW this is amazing. I am looking into the nursing program at ACC as well. This is just what I needed, Congratulations on your new Adventure:)
By Anita January 6, 2017 - 2:35 am
Such an inspiring story! Thank you for sharing. Just more reassurance for me starting the same program at my age!
By Sabreen January 10, 2017 - 2:55 am
Congratulations, Annie! Good luck with the NCLEX!
Sabreen (I was with you @ CEC Level 1, I have one more semester to graduate myself!!!)
By Rick January 13, 2017 - 11:03 pm
Congratulations Annie!
Your story is inspiring. Very happy for you.
All the best!
By Margaret O'Sullivan January 15, 2017 - 9:53 pm
Annie, I am thrilled with your achievement and wish you the very best!
By Marcelle January 16, 2017 - 1:29 pm
Starting level 3 tomorrow and your story was just the boost of encouragement I needed to start this semester. I am a 47 year old mother of 4 and am also in my 7th year of pursuing this degree, and with 2 now in college, I am even more convinced that this is proof positive to all of my kids that it’s never too late, and you’re never too old to learn something new. Thanks!
By Cherryl January 18, 2017 - 10:31 pm
Congratulations Annie!! Best of luck in your new position at the new hospital.
By Jacalyn DuVarney January 27, 2017 - 5:45 pm
Congratulations, Annie! My mom went back to school at around the same age after doing data entry and other odd jobs for 3 decades…she also became a nurse! Super proud of you, God speed! <3
By Suada February 8, 2017 - 10:17 am
So inspiring… Best Wishes!