So she enrolled into Clayton State University to become a registered nurse. By the time she had entered college and beat breast cancer twice, it was time for her daughter to enter undergrad.

But it took a few months for Patterson to finally take school seriously. Once she did, she and her mother started taking classes and studying together as healthcare management majors.

“I think it has definitely bonded us and made us stronger,” Oliver said.

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Although unplanned, the two graduated at the same time in May.

“It was totally an accident. We didn’t plan it at all,” Oliver admitted.

The two finished school together, but they are taking different paths now.

Oliver hopes to earn her master’s degree in healthcare management and envision, and Patterson wants to apply for nursing school.