Polk State transition track helps veteran firefighter move to career in nursing

With a decade of experience as a firefighter and paramedic at St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, Jacob Moskowitz has a passion for saving lives and helping others. His passion has evolved in a new direction.

Moskowitz earned his Associate in Science in Nursing from Polk State College in April. He will conclude his tenure at St. Petersburg Fire Rescue in September.

“For most of my career, I wanted nothing to do with nursing,” Moskowitz recalled. “But then I had the chance to spend a day with an RN (certified registered nurse) while I was working in an emergency room. I realized that nursing was what I really wanted to do.”

A native of Lakeland, Moskowitz soon learned about the Polk State Nursing Program’s pre-licensure transition track. This track allows working professionals such as licensed practical nurses (LPNs), paramedics, respiratory therapists, military medics and other eligible healthcare providers to earn a nursing degree while continuing to work full-time in their field.

“Polk State’s Nursing Program has always had a great reputation,” Moskowitz said. “Learning about the track made it a seamless transition.”

Moskowitz credits both his colleagues at Fire Rescue and the Polk State Nursing staff for their flexibility. At St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, colleagues would often switch work schedules with Moskowitz to accommodate his class schedule. The Polk State faculty was understanding of his time constraints as Moskowitz often went directly from 24-hour shifts to class.

“I’m grateful for my time at the Fire Department and how they were able to work with me on my schedule,” Moskowitz added. “At Polk State, the instructors were great. I’d find it hard to believe anyone could find nursing faculty as accommodating as they were. They truly want to see everyone succeed.”

Moskowitz was one of 187 Polk State Associate in Science graduates during the April 30 commencement. Moskowitz remains enrolled at Polk State as he pursues a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

“Jacob’s success demonstrates the College’s commitment to creating avenues that meet students where they are and help them take the next step in their professional journey,” Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas said. “We are incredibly proud of Jacob and the dedication he has shown to both his education and his community. We’re excited for him as he transitions to his new field and creates his own chapter in the proud legacy of our Nursing Program.”

Moskowitz’s busy schedule prevented him from attending graduation and his May pinning ceremony. However, that didn’t stop the Polk State Nursing staff from recognizing him. With permission from his supervisors, AdventHealth Dean of Nursing Dr. Deleise Wilson, Associate Dean Cheryl Conley, EMS Program Director Earl Kulpa and Nursing Professors Jerri Palmer, Danielle DelGiudice and Maggie Chaffin went to his fire station to honor Moskowitz with an individual pinning ceremony.

“I was so surprised,” Moskowitz exclaimed. “Not only did Dr. Wilson and Professor Conley come, but they brought a staff member from each of my semesters at Polk with them. That right there just shows their dedication. It was incredibly humbling and meant so much to me.”

Set to begin his nursing career in September, Moskowitz anticipates completing his bachelor’s degree during the Summer 2027 Semester. He offered advice for other students attempting to balance full-time work and education.

“It’s not easy but it is doable,” Moskowitz concluded. “You’ll have to be flexible and move some things around in your personal life. You’re also going to give up some sleep, but in the end, it’s worth it. Polk State made this goal possible.”