CHEZLYNN CHINAVARE
Giving back
WHERE IT BEGAN Chezlynn Chinavare’s career as a nurse and nurse practitioner is a testament to the flexibility and opportunity the profession provides. Jackson College played a pivotal role in helping her reach new heights — and now she’s come full circle, giving back as an instructor. Her path began at Monroe County Community College, where she earned her associate degree in nursing and became a registered nurse (RN). After working at a local hospital for a few years, she launched her own business — an assisted living facility in Monroe — combining her nursing skills with entrepreneurship. After moving to the Irish Hills area, Chinavare decided to continue her education and pursue her goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. The University of Michigan offered a program that allowed her to transfer associate-level credits toward a master’s degree. Thanks to Jackson College’s flexible course offerings and multiple locations, she was able to complete many of her classes close to home — saving time and money while balancing family life. “It was wonderful, especially with kids at home and being on a budget,” she recalls. Jackson College also provided the opportunity to complete clinical rotations at the College’s Health Clinic, where she learned directly from a nurse practitioner. “When I was doing my clinical rotation, I met all the nursing faculty. They were so welcoming. I thought, ‘Oh, I want to do this!’” After completing her master’s degree and becoming a nurse practitioner, Chezlynn decided to add teaching to her credentials. Today, she works as a nurse practitioner in orthopedics at Hillsdale Hospital while teaching part-time at Jackson College. “Walking through the halls of Jackson College now as an instructor, after once being a student here myself, is incredibly meaningful,” she said. “I remember what it felt like to be in their shoes — full of hope, nerves, and big dreams. It’s an honor to now be part of their story and to give back to the place that helped shape mine.”
I remember what
it felt like to be in their shoes — full of hope, nerves, and big dreams. It’s an honor to now be part of their story and to give back to the place that helped shape mine.”
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