Driven Every Mile: How Sarah Gore Is Making the Most of Her LPN Journey
When Sarah Gore pulls into the parking lot each morning at High Plains Technology Center, she brings more than just a willingness to learn—she brings heart, determination, and leadership. Commuting daily from Taloga, Oklahoma to Woodward, Sarah chose HPTC’s Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program because she believed in the school’s commitment to excellence and its outstanding NCLEX pass-rate record.
Her instructor, Vanessa Vanzee, describes Sarah as “dependable, kind, and a true leader by example.” She stays fully engaged during lectures, asks thoughtful questions, and is always one of the first to support her peers. Her positive attitude and strong work ethic have made her a standout in the classroom.
For Sarah, the journey through nursing school has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.
“My experience at HPTC has been truly unforgettable,” she said. “I’ve spent countless hours in lectures, studying, taking exams, and practicing hands-on skills. But just as meaningful have been the relationships I’ve built, the moments where I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone, and the new abilities I’ve gained along the way. It hasn’t been a walk in the park—there have been tears, challenges, and doubts—but also moments of pure joy that I’ll always look back on with gratitude.”
Sarah says her classmates play a huge role in keeping her motivated. “We hold each other accountable, offer support, and are always there when someone needs a shoulder to lean on,” she shared. “My family and friends also play a role in motivating me. Their encouragement outside of school inspires me to always do my best.”
Sarah’s love for nursing is rooted in her desire to help others.
“I decided to pursue nursing because of my devotion to helping people,” she said. “I’ve watched other nurses start from the bottom and seen their dedication toward their patients drive their passion for nursing. HPTC has only helped build that passion by challenging me and pushing me through my fears to become a capable and prudent nurse.”
Her long-term goal is to continue growing in the field and eventually earn her Registered Nurse (RN) license.
“Completing this program and passing the NCLEX means more to me than just a license,” Sarah explained. “It’s the struggles I faced, the hours spent studying, and the unforgettable experiences that prepared me for the next step. I’m beyond excited to one day pass the NCLEX and move forward in my nursing career.”
This year, nursing students like Sarah have even more reason to be excited about their futures. Thanks to a new statewide partnership between the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education, the path from LPN to RN or BSN has become smoother and more accessible than ever.
“This initiative to expand course articulation between technology center and collegiate nursing programs will streamline the process for students, making higher education more attainable and affordable.”
Through this new articulation agreement, CareerTech LPN graduates who pass the NCLEX exam can now receive college credit hours toward their continued nursing education—creating a clear, cost-effective pathway for students to advance their degrees without repeating coursework.
Sarah encourages others who are considering nursing school at HPTC to embrace the challenge wholeheartedly.
“I would definitely tell them to come prepared to work,” she advised. “This course has its struggles, but the instructors know how to transform you into a good nurse—you just have to be willing to listen and follow their direction.”
With her compassion, work ethic, and determination, Sarah Gore exemplifies what it means to lead with heart in the field of nursing—and she’s well on her way to making a difference in the lives of others.
For those interested in following in Sarah’s footsteps, applications for the HPTC LPN program open in January 2026 for the August 2026 class. To learn more or apply, visit https://www.hptc.edu/practical-nursing or call 580-571-6127.
