From Nurse to Therapist

After a decades-long career as a nurse, Eileen Lyston ’23 graduated from St. Joseph’s University, New York’s Online Campus with a B.S. in Human Services, the first step toward her goal of obtaining an MSW degree.

It was an objective she has put on pause while raising her now 22-year-old daughter.

“I had to put my dream on hold while raising my daughter, but I’ve always wanted to help others in a different way than I could with nursing,” she said. “I feel I am where I belong at this point in my life, even if it is unconventional. I believe in following dreams and fulfilling your mind and soul.”

As an adult student, Ms. Lyston was looking for flexibility when she enrolled in the University’s fully online campus, and she was able to attend classes and complete coursework on her own schedule. She was also able to apply life credits toward her studies and finish 48 credits within one year to earn her human services degree. She still works as a nurse, a career she has held for more than 29 years, currently working with people with disabilities who have serious medical conditions.

Ms. Lyston is enrolled in St. Joseph’s MSW program, attending once-a-week in-person classes on the Long Island Campus. It’s a schedule that she says allows her to work and simultaneously continue her studies.

“I want to be a therapist in a private practice,” she said. “I believe in mindfulness, meditation, peace and kindness. I hope to be able to utilize all four within my therapeutic practice.”

When she is not working or studying, she enjoys the ocean and being in nature, as well as gardening. Her daughter is also pursuing a master’s degree at another institution.

“I believe everyone should continue to make progress and learn in whichever stage of life they are in,” Ms. Lyston said. “I am incredibly thankful to St. Joe’s for this journey I am on. I have met wonderful, caring people who continuously make this experience wonderful.”