In 2020, Jaines Andrades, an African American woman from Springfield, Massachusetts, achieved her dream of becoming a nurse practitioner in the Trauma Surgery Department at Baystate Medical Center, where she once worked as a janitor.
Her journey, spanning ten years of hard work and dedication, is a testament to perseverance and ambition.
“Honestly, I applied for the job just to get my foot in the door, to see what the nurses did and what it was like in the hospital,” Andrades shared with Mass Live.
Born to Puerto Rican parents in Buffalo, New York, Jaines moved to Springfield in 2005. Initially aspiring to become a lawyer, she felt discouraged during high school.
A turning point came during a doctor’s visit with her mother when a nurse highlighted the benefits of a nursing career.
Jaines began her nursing education at Holyoke Community College, transferring to Elms College in 2010.
That same year, she started working as a custodian at Baystate Medical Center, cleaning operating rooms and observing the nurses. This firsthand experience solidified her interest in nursing.
In 2014, Jaines earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing but continued working as a janitor while searching for a nursing position.
In 2015, she was hired as a registered nurse at the Mason Square Neighborhood Health Clinic, where her dedication and potential were quickly recognized.
Jaines furthered her education by pursuing a doctorate in nursing. She returned to Baystate Medical Center to work as a registered nurse in its acute care unit, continuing until her promotion to nurse practitioner.
“It wasn’t a smooth ride, it wasn’t an easy ride, but it got done,” Andrades said. “That’s what I’m happy about.”
Reflecting on her journey, Jaines acknowledged the support of her family and friends.
“My mom is my biggest cheerleader,” she said. “I know if it wasn’t for her support I would not have made it through because she believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. I have an older brother, and he has also been so supportive.”
Jaines posted a photo of her three work badges on Facebook, showing her progression from janitor to registered nurse to nurse practitioner. The post received overwhelming support and inspired many.
She hopes her story encourages others to pursue their dreams.
“I hope that people will understand that you can do it, that you can achieve what you want, not even academically or professionally, but in your life,” Andrades said. “Your life is what you make it, and, if you’re working towards your dreams and you believe in yourself and you believe in your dream, it doesn’t matter if the path isn’t perfect. Even if there are hardships and struggles along the way, it doesn’t discount the value of your achievement.”
