Meet Raequan Outlaw, a recent graduate of the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at Halifax Community College and a proud alumnus of Roanoke Valley Early College. From earning his EMT-B certification before finishing high school to becoming a full-time paramedic by age 19, Raequan’s educational journey has been anything but ordinary. Now, with his ADN degree in hand and a clear vision for the future, Raequan shares how persistence, planning, and faith have shaped his path.
Early Aspirations and the Road to Nursing
Raequan’s interest in medicine sparked early. Upon graduating from Roanoke Valley Early College in 2019, he already held a North Carolina EMT-B certification and was set to begin paramedic school that fall—all while holding down a full-time job. His plan worked. Just over a year later, he was a certified paramedic at 19, already gaining critical field experience.
“I decided that gaining my Registered Nurse licensure would provide me with the best pathway,” he explains. “The Paramedic-to-RN program allowed me to maintain financial stability while gaining the necessary classroom and clinical hours.”
Though his early college experience didn’t directly push him into nursing, Raequan credits one high school teacher who supported his long-term plan to return to college, rather than questioning his immediate choices after graduation. That subtle encouragement stayed with him.
Overcoming Challenges: Then and Now
As a high school student, Raequan faced significant logistical challenges. Living more than 35 minutes from campus without a driver’s license meant relying on taxi services, the regional transit bus, and the generosity of family and friends. “This put an extreme financial strain on my superwoman—my mom,” Raequan shares, noting her unwavering support during those tough years.
In the ADN program, challenges evolved. Raequan had to let go of old study habits and embrace a new level of discipline. “Learning new concepts is different than studying more of what you already know,” he says. “I had to study not just to pass, but to actually know how to perform the tasks and educate my patients.”
But he found strength in community and camaraderie—both in the classroom and in clinical settings. One standout memory involves a clinical rotation in the Medical/Surgical unit where advanced placement and traditional students were paired. “Our knowledge complemented each other,” he recalls. “They had more experience with the EPIC system, and we had stronger patient assessment skills. Learning from each other was one of my greatest experiences.”
Educators Who Made an Impact
Reflecting on his time at Roanoke Valley Early College, Raequan names Wayne Terrell, Sherra Welch, and Timothy O’Shea as teachers who left a lasting impression. Their lessons in accountability, time management, and professionalism helped shape the way Raequan approached both his education and his career.
He also praises ADN instructors Ms. Alfonso and Mrs. Clary for their creativity and dedication. They truly went above and beyond what other teachers may have done he says.” Their work has not gone unnoticed by me.”
Looking Forward: ICU, Higher Degrees, and Big Dreams
Raequan is about to start his nursing career in the Intensive Care Unit at ECU Health North in Roanoke Rapids, NC, just a short distance from Halifax Community College. This highlights the college’s dedication to training skilled professionals who enrich the local community. Meanwhile, he will continue working as a paramedic to maintain his prehospital skills. However, this is just the beginning.
“I plan to obtain my BSN by the end of 2026 and then pursue graduate studies—either as a Nurse Practitioner or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist,” he says. “Eventually, I hope to attend medical school, if that aligns with God’s plan for me.”
His ambitions are matched by humility and reflection. “If I could do it again, I would have stayed more focused and taken advantage of the opportunities I had early on,” Raequan admits. “But hindsight is 20/20. I’m not in competition with anyone. My goal is to be superior to my former self.”
Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
For current early college students with an interest in healthcare, Raequan offers this advice:
“First, put God first in everything you do. If things don’t go as planned, trust that you are exactly where you need to be. Second, understand that healthcare is a challenging field. People’s lives depend on your commitment to being your best. And finally—make your servant’s towel bigger than your ego. Be for your patients who you’d want for your own family.”
Raequan Outlaw’s journey from early college student to RN is a story of resilience, focus, and service. As he steps into the next phase of his career, we are proud to celebrate his achievements and the impact he is sure to make. For students just beginning their path, Raequan’s story is a powerful reminder that hard work, faith, and a clear vision can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
