If resilience had a face, it might look a lot like Barlett Caballero, a proud Odessa native and soon-to-be graduate of UT Permian Basin's nursing program.
“The nursing program and the faculty has made me feel super confident in myself with the support they've given us, the preparation and the extra time they put in to just really push us to do better and provide us with the skills necessary for that,” Barlett shared.
Barlett chose nursing not only because of her passion for helping others but also because she hopes to give back the same care and compassion that nurses once showed her during one of the hardest times of her life.
“I was in a car accident. I was heading to my job, and I was T-boned at a red light. I ended up being flown to Lubbock, and there were some really hard times I went through,” she said. “Those nurses were extremely helpful during those dark times. I was inspired. I thought my dream of becoming a nurse practitioner was over, but I realized it didn’t have to be.”
That accident happened five years ago and left Barlett wheelchair bound, but she hasn’t let that hold her back.
“Through a lot of intensive rehabilitation, I slowly began to build myself back up along with my confidence,” Barlett said. “Continuing my education was a hard decision, but once I found out how welcoming and supportive UTPB is, that fear went away. I decided to take the chance.”
Barlett plans to become a psychiatric nurse and eventually a nurse practitioner. She credits UT Permian Basin’s financial aid programs, like Falcon Free, for making her education possible.
“Falcon Free was just a huge relief off my shoulders,” she said. “It’s such a big opportunity to graduate debt free. UTPB is amazing for providing us with these funds.”
Falcon Free allows students from families with an income of $100,000 or less per year to attend the University tuition free.
UTPB President Dr. Sandra Woodley shared her admiration for Barlett’s journey.
“What an amazing and inspiring story. Barlett is from Odessa, soon to be a graduate from our nursing program, and she has big hopes and dreams for the future. We know she is going to be a well-skilled, supportive, and compassionate nurse, and we’re proud to call her an alumna.”
Barlett says she feels prepared to enter the workforce thanks to the hands-on learning environment and supportive community at UTPB.
“The STEM lab classes and facilities prepared me well. They have mannequins with realistic reactions and video cameras to record practice sessions. It’s very realistic training,” she said. “I’m excited to put my skills into practice and help people better themselves, showing them that after storms, the sun comes out again.”
As graduation approaches, Barlett reflects on how far she’s come.
“If I could talk to myself five years ago, I’d say: take the chance. You’re capable. Put your fears aside. The hard moments are chances to prove you can succeed. I’m ecstatic to graduate and make my family proud.”
