Become a Licensed Practical Nurse: Herzing LPNs Share the Lessons Learned Along the Way

If you have a passion for caring for others and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) could be the ideal path for you.

LPNs are an essential part of the healthcare team. These compassionate caretakers provide direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. They play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and comfort of patients, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, assisting with personal care, and educating patients and their families on health-related matters, all with a poised sense of compassion. Most healthcare students acquire their LPN in 12-16 months, making it one of the most accessible pathway programs to get you from the classroom to the workforce.

At Herzing University, our practical nursing diploma program provides a comprehensive, 12-month curriculum that will ready you to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses exam (NCLEX-PN) and begin a rewarding career as an LPN. We blend rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in their roles. Through clinical rotations, students gain real-world experience, applying their knowledge and developing essential nursing skills to provide high-quality patient care.

Along the way, you’ll face moments of uncertainty — possibly questioning if you’re ready for the coursework, the testing, and ultimately the career. Don’t fear the unknown! Those feelings are ones that every student experiences and those who have been sharing their advice with you and others who are following in their footsteps. Hear from some of Herzing’s LPN graduates on their advice for what you can do now and ways you can best prepare for an LPN career.

• Blancheneige Sourn: “Don’t give up, even when school gets tough. The result is truly worth it. Embrace asking questions and practicing skills whenever possible, your teachers are here to help you. In terms of the next steps, I’m considering Herzing’s LPN to (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) BSN program, especially since my work offers tuition reimbursement. If possible, I plan to start in the fall.”
• Hope Lyle: “My advice to LPN [prep] students is to know your worth when applying for jobs. During school, take the initiative to study on your own. There are so many online resources to take advantage of. Find the specific learning method that works best for you — passing the NCLEX is your goal now! Personally, I found YouTube’s resources helpful. You’d be surprised at how many different jobs are available to you as an LPN, so be sure to consider all your options and work in the environment that suits you and your talents.”
• Naudiya Tye: “No matter what challenges you face during school, keep pushing. You can do this!  It’s all worth it in the end — becoming a nurse is so rewarding. I’m thrilled to be working at a children’s hospital in the diabetes and endocrine clinic, an opportunity made possible by Herzing. As for my plans post-graduation, I’m motivated to return for the LPN to BSN program and continue my journey in healthcare.”
• Jamie Tabora: “If I were to pass on advice to current LPN [prep] students, it would be this: pharmacology isn’t a joke! But seriously, it may seem intimidating, but there are plenty of tools to help you come out on top. Embrace flashcards; they will become your best friend. In the end, it’s all worth it — I just took another significant step by submitting my application for a BSN.”

The demand for LPNs continues to grow, presenting numerous career prospects and advancement opportunities. Through your diploma in practical nursing and as an LPN, you will have the opportunity to specialize in a variety of healthcare fields, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health, allowing you to work closely with specific patient populations. Additionally, LPNs can pursue further education, such as through Herzing’s LPN to ASN, LPN to BSN, and various post-graduate degree programs, all of which can open future doors to expanded responsibilities and leadership roles.

Whether you choose to continue your education or excel as an LPN, the practical nursing diploma will serve as a solid foundation for a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare. You have the power to provide the dedication, compassion, and knowledge as an LPN to make a significant impact on the lives of patients and their families, becoming an integral part of your community’s future health. Learn more about how Herzing’s PN (LPN prep) program can make your career goals a reality.