Alumni Spotlight: A Change from Aviation to Nursing

Meet South University (2-Time) Nursing Graduate, Nathalie Bailey

Two-time South University nursing graduate Nathalie Bailey is a family nurse practitioner with the Southeast Permanente Medical Group (TSPMG), one of the largest multi-specialty medical groups in Georgia. She cares for patients of all ages, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, chronic disease management, and patient education. She also mentors, supervises, and evaluates nursing students in clinical settings, helping prepare them for safe, competent nursing practice. Nathalie is passionate about both roles, but this field wasn’t always where she thought she’d end up. 

Building One Career, and Then Starting Over

Nathalie’s first career was in aviation in Haiti. She worked in high-pressure roles as an air traffic controller and flight operations manager for the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). In those jobs, she managed complex flight operations and led teams with precision and accountability.

Then, Nathalie immigrated to the U.S. and had to start over from scratch. When she weighed what to do next, she thought of her parents, who were educators, and her sisters, who were nurses. She took inspiration from both, as she pivoted to healthcare.

Nathalie’s first job in healthcare was as a patient care technician. The role gave her foundational clinical experience and taught her the realities of patient care. She then worked her way up in her education and her career, one step at a time. She got a practical nursing diploma, followed by an associate degree in nursing and then a bachelor’s degree in nursing. 

From there, Nathalie earned two degrees from South University through online learning. First up was a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2017. Most recently, Nathalie received her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from South's online programs in 2024.

“Each degree and clinical role built on the last, allowing me to grow from bedside care to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner and educator,” she says. “Throughout this journey, I relied on the lessons from my aviation career—critical thinking, leadership, and calm decision-making—while embracing a lifelong commitment to service.”

The South University Nursing Student Experience

“I selected South University because it offered the flexibility I needed as a mother with a full-time job,” Nathalie explains. “The program allowed me to successfully complete both my MSN and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees while balancing family, work, and academic responsibilities.”¹

Through her nursing classes, clinical experiences, and faculty mentorship, Nathalie developed the skills to deliver patient-centered care as a Family Nurse Practitioner and to mentor the next generation of nurses. In both programs, she strengthened her clinical expertise, knowledge, and confidence. She also grew her abilities in leadership and critical analysis. 

“The faculty and staff at South University had a profound impact on my growth and success," she says. “Their mentorship, guidance, and encouragement provided the support I needed.”

Alumni Advice for Nursing Students

As someone who has overcome her own share of challenges and is truly committed to growth, Nathalie advises current students to believe in themselves and embrace every opportunity to learn. She shares, “Prioritize your time, seek support when needed, and remember that perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to lifelong learning will carry you through.”

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¹Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs, have a required in-person, practicum, or externship. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program. 

Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

²Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared in 2026.