OCC Alumni Check-In: Rachel Hollywood

Toms River, NJ - Welcome to OCC Vikings Alumni Check-In, where we hear from former student-athletes and coaches, to learn how their experiences at Ocean County College impacted them, and where they are now.

A 2007 graduate of Ocean County College's Nursing program, Rachel Hollywood was a member of the OCC Softball (2003) team who transitioned to the health care field upon graduation. She is currently employed as a Nurse Practitioner at Hackensack Meridian Health - Ocean Medical Center, for whom she has worked for a combined 19 years.

Years at OCC: 2003-2007
What was your major? Nursing
Sport Played: Softball (2003)
Current Employer: Hackensack Meridian Health (19 years) - Ocean Medical Center (14 years)
Official Job Title: Nurse Practitioner
What made you want to work in the healthcare field? Taking care of my grandmother, who had Alzheimer's Disease.
What's your favorite memory as an OCC Viking? The van rides!
During your time at Ocean, who was a person who had an impact on you and why? Professor Byrnes - nursing professor. She embodied everything I felt a great nurse should be. I wanted to graduate and be as great of a nurse as she was. 
What is something that you are thankful for? My son.
What is something you do to relieve stress? Walk on the boardwalk, or by the water.
Advice on how people can help fight against COVID-19: Wash your hands, and stay home.

Are you a former OCC Viking interested in sharing your story? We'd love to hear from you! Please reach out to Athletics Technical Coordinator Kevin Byrne (kbyrne@ocean.edu) for more information!