For Courtney W., a move from California to Texas wasn鈥檛 just a change in scenery 鈥� it was a turning point for her career and future. Originally from Compton, California, Wilson decided to take a bold leap to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at 国产主播-Texas. 

“I gave up everything in California and came to Texas with my daughter,” Wilson said. The sacrifice quickly paid off: she not only completed the program but also secured a position at a Dallas hospital in its residency program, working in the transplant unit. 

Already a licensed vocational nurse for over a decade, Wilson was driven to earn the registered nurse title to unlock better career prospects.聽

“I was making good money in California, but I didn鈥檛 have that RN title,” she explained. “More and more jobs are asking for RNs now.” 

Texas offered Wilson more than just an education 鈥� it provided opportunity and affordability. “When I applied, I had a spot in a program, I had a job, I found an apartment 鈥� everything just worked out perfectly,” she shared. 

Though the transition wasn鈥檛 without challenges, such as adjusting to RN-level test-taking and maintaining her focus, Wilson found unwavering support at 国产主播. 

“The teachers were right there, ready to help me,” she said, emphasizing the value of campus resources and mentorship. 

Now, as a BSN graduate and registered nurse, Wilson is focused on gaining experience in Dallas. She also has entrepreneurial ambitions and wants to open a Board and Care home in the future. 

“No matter how hard it is, it鈥檚 possible. Don鈥檛 limit yourself,” she advised. “You can do it.” 

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Maryam S. had always dreamed of becoming a physician. Like many aspiring doctors, she was motivated by the desire to help others, heal patients, and make a meaningful impact. But after high school, she realized she lacked a true understanding of what working in a high-stress hospital environment would entail.

Unsure of what it would be like to interact with patients, handle emergencies, or collaborate with healthcare teams, Maryam decided to gain firsthand experience by enrolling in 国产主播鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This decision would not only give her the clarity she sought but also shape her career path in profound and unexpected ways.

鈥淚 thought nursing would be a good starting point to see if I could handle the medical field, especially the high-stress situations,鈥� Maryam recalled.

Maryam鈥檚 time at WCU didn鈥檛 just prepare her for the technical side of medicine 鈥� it instilled in her the importance of empathy, responsibility, and transparency.

From hands-on experiences in the simulation lab to learning physical assessments, WCU gave her a solid foundation for medical school.

She recalled the confidence she gained through her training, 鈥淲hen I started my simulation lab in medical school, I felt so prepared. I already knew how to read an EKG, listen to heart sounds, and even interact with the manakins. Many of my peers were struggling, but thanks to WCU, I had the skills and the confidence.鈥�

But perhaps the most impactful lesson she learned was the importance of prevention.

鈥淚 fell in love with public health during my term at West Coast,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 realized that preventing diseases from happening in the first place is far more effective than treating them. If we can educate people, empower them to take control of their health and provide them with the tools to prevent illness, we can create better health outcomes for everyone.鈥�

This realization led Maryam to pursue public health initiatives beyond nursing. She is currently working with Dr. Michelle Metope, the Dean of Public Health at WCU, to publish research on health disparities in her community.

鈥淧ublic health is about more than just treating individuals 鈥� it鈥檚 about addressing the root causes of disease and making a lasting impact on entire populations.鈥�

Looking to the future, Maryam has her sights set on cardiology, but her primary goal is to give back to her community in Pakistan by opening clinics focused on screenings and preventative care.

She dreams of working alongside other physicians to volunteer her time and skills, offering life-saving treatments to those who can’t afford them.

鈥淭here鈥檚 a huge need for healthcare in underserved areas, and I want to help bridge that gap.鈥�

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After 18 years as a dental assistant, Chanel A. was ready for a change. She wanted to make a bigger difference, combining her passion for healthcare with a desire to impact communities on a broader scale. In 2020, just as the world was grappling with the pandemic, Chanel found herself drawn to 国产主播鈥檚 Public Health program. Originally starting in nursing, she quickly discovered her passion lay in public health, especially with a focus on epidemiology. 

When asked what drew her to 国产主播, Chanel highlighted the ease of the application process and the supportive environment. She felt encouraged to pursue her goals, knowing that the faculty and network of support at WCU were there for her. 

鈥淎t 国产主播, you learn resilience,鈥� she said 

Chanel explained that the fast-paced nature of the program taught her to learn from challenges, build strong study habits, and develop the time management skills essential for success. 

Despite the inherent challenges of an online program, Chanel never felt alone. She connected with faculty who were always just a message or Zoom call away, ready to provide guidance and support. She joined the African-American Association, which helped her connect with her community and solidify her aspirations in global health. 

Graduation day was a moment of pride for Chanel. Supported by her family and even an ex-partner who came to cheer her on, she stood on the cusp of a new chapter, excited and hopeful. Next spring, she鈥檒l begin her master鈥檚 degree in Global Health at Cal State San Marcos, a step closer to fulfilling her dream of working in underserved communities around the world. 

For those considering 国产主播 or an online program, Chanel鈥檚 advice is simple: 鈥淢ake sure you have a strong support system and understand that it will take sacrifices. You might not see your friends as often, but in the end, it鈥檚 worth it.鈥� 

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Cynthia C., BSN 鈥�24, never expected her life to look like it does today. After being diagnosed with stage III cancer, everything shifted in an instant. Yet, this challenging experience became the catalyst for a new, purposeful journey.

鈥淐ancer gave me a second chance at life,鈥� Cynthia reflected. 鈥淣ow, I understand my purpose. If I wasn鈥檛 sure before, I am now.鈥�

During her chemotherapy treatment, Cynthia was supported by a nurse-patient navigator who played a vital role in her recovery. At the time, Cynthia was also pregnant with her sixth child, a situation that deepened her appreciation for the healthcare professionals around her.

鈥淎fter going through chemo and meeting other patients, I told my mom I wanted to work in oncology,鈥� she shared. 鈥淢y goal was to pay it forward.鈥�

Cynthia started working in an administrative role in a hospital鈥檚 oncology unit, where an oncologist saw potential in her and encouraged her to pursue nursing.

鈥淗e kept telling me I would make a great nurse,鈥� she recalled. 鈥溾�橸ou empathize with the patients,鈥� he said. 鈥榊ou genuinely care.鈥欌��

Her determination to help cancer patients soon became her life鈥檚 mission. Despite having no prior healthcare experience, Cynthia found the work to be instinctive.

鈥淗aving gone through cancer myself, I can truly empathize with all of them,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly fulfilling.鈥�

Cynthia enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at 国产主播鈥檚 Los Angeles campus, graduating with cum laude honors this past July. Balancing full-time work, her studies, and raising six children as a single mother was no small feat.

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 have a single day off,鈥� she said. 鈥淓very day was either work, school, or clinical, and I still had to go home and be a mom.鈥�

Despite the challenges, Cynthia is grateful for her experience at WCU and the supportive community of students and faculty.

鈥淚鈥檓 so thankful for the experience and proud to be a part of West Coast,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he staff and students I met still stay in touch. It鈥檚 like a family.鈥�

Armed with her BSN degree, Cynthia is more committed than ever to helping others navigate their cancer diagnoses. Having lost her aunt to cancer as a teenager, she understands the pain and uncertainty that comes with the disease.

Today, she has become a trusted resource in her community, offering support, advocacy, and encouragement to anyone who reaches out.

鈥淐ancer isn鈥檛 something you can cover with a bandage. Many people don鈥檛 know where to turn,鈥� Cynthia said.

Cynthia鈥檚 goal is to become a nurse practitioner and continue her work in oncology. The relationships she forms with her patients give her work profound meaning.

鈥淚 see myself in them,鈥� she said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e all afraid of the unknown, but having someone to hold your hand and guide you makes it a little easier. It lets them know they鈥檙e not alone.鈥�

The post From Survivor to Advocate: How One Alumna Found Her Calling in Oncology appeared first on 国产主播.

Carlos C., a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) graduate at 国产主播, prepares to take his next steps in healthcare. From working as a mental health technician to pursuing his passion for occupational therapy, Carlos has spent years honing his skills and deepening his commitment to serving others. Now in his final trimester of didactic coursework, he鈥檚 ready to translate his classroom experience into meaningful, real-world impact.聽

鈥淥ccupational therapy has always been a lifelong mission for me,鈥� he said. Originally from Pomona, California, Carlos is currently in his fourth and final trimester of didactic coursework. His next step? Fieldwork rotations, where he plans to bring his classroom and life experiences to life. 

Carlos鈥� path to 国产主播 wasn鈥檛 a straight line. Before enrolling, he worked as a mental health technician at a psychiatric hospital in Glendora, where he supported patients with psychiatric disorders in their daily activities. This experience highlighted gaps in care that he believes occupational therapy can bridge. 鈥淪eeing those gaps made me want to apply to graduate school,鈥� he said. 

His motivation to serve others stems from his upbringing. 鈥淢y mom was a caregiver, and growing up around my grandparents really shaped my desire to help,鈥� Carlos explained. His passion for occupational therapy was solidified when he recognized OT’s potential to support physical and mental health needs.聽

Carlos emphasized his commitment to inpatient care. 鈥淚 want to work in inpatient facilities where I can see people at their worst and help them get better,鈥� he said. In the long term, he aims to start a home health company to continue providing holistic care.聽

Carlos chose 国产主播 over other institutions because of its focus on diversity and inclusivity. 鈥淭he small class sizes and the personal relationships with professors make all the difference,鈥� he noted. 鈥淭hey bring their real-world experience into the classroom, and that鈥檚 invaluable.鈥� 

For future students, Carlos offers this advice: 鈥淩emain open-minded. You鈥檙e a lifelong learner. Every bit of feedback helps you grow.鈥� He also shared a mantra that has guided him through his journey: 鈥淲hat you reveal, you heal.鈥� 

The post From Mental Health Technician to MSOT Alumni at 国产主播聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

With over 65,000 alumni worldwide, 国产主播 is thrilled to celebrate the vibrant network of graduates who are leaving a lasting impact across industries and communities. But what truly sets our alumni community apart is how many of them return to WCU to give back 鈥� many as guest lecturers, mentors, and even faculty members.

More than 100 alumni return to the classroom each year to inspire the next generation, bringing invaluable real-world experience and igniting students’ passion for their chosen fields.

鈥淚 knew there wasn’t anywhere I would rather work than at WCU,鈥� said Amanda Woolery, a nursing instructor who earned her Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from WCU in 2018 and 2021, respectively. 鈥淚 had such a wonderful experience here as a student, it was only natural that I would want to come back to my 鈥榟ome鈥� to teach the next generation and bring it full circle.鈥�

Alumni faculty embody WCU鈥檚 commitment to creating lifelong connections, where students become professionals and then mentors, each generation inspiring the next.

Valerie Cromwell-Perry, who earned her Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) from WCU in 2020, was encouraged by her professor to return to the university as a lab assistant, which ultimately led to her becoming an assistant professor in the OT department.

鈥淎s a mentor, I see my role as one of guiding and nurturing students’ growth and understanding,鈥� Valerie said. 鈥淚 consult with my students on the first day of class to better understand their preferred learning styles 鈥� fostering a richer learning experience.鈥�

Every story is a testament to the power of knowledge, compassion, and community. Our alumni often say that WCU instilled in them the skills for their profession and a profound sense of responsibility to make a difference. Through their dedication, our alumni remind students that anything is possible with hard work, compassion, and resilience.

Could you be the next to join them? If you鈥檙e interested in becoming an alumni faculty member, please e-mail Marina Harrison to explore current opportunities that may be a perfect fit for you.

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Graduates from 国产主播鈥檚 Texas campus and Online Programs gathered in front of friends and families this December at the Plano Event Center to celebrate the 2024 Commencement. 

Master of Physician Assistant graduate Anthony I. said he always wanted to be in medicine, either as a doctor or a PA but wanted flexibility. As a PA, he said, you can switch specialties whenever you desire 鈥� and that鈥檚 what really sold him on the profession. 

鈥淚 never felt like a number at 国产主播,” Anthony said. “I felt like they saw me as a person, and today, I’m most thankful to be completing my master’s program.鈥澛�

Already a licensed vocational nurse for over a decade, WCU-Texas BSN graduate Courtney W. was driven to earn the registered nurse title to unlock better career prospects.聽

“I was making good money in California, but I didn鈥檛 have that RN title. I didn’t go straight to college right after high school, so it’s never too late,” she said.  

A former Baylor University undergraduate with a degree in health science studies, Emma T. said she was drawn to the PA profession for its team-oriented approach and versatility.  

鈥淚 never thought I’d be standing here. I think it’s just something I’ve dreamed about and worked so hard for,” Emma said. “I know that this program prepared me well I was surrounded by such great friends and classmates and faculty that they never let me doubt myself.鈥� 

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Originally from California, Esther N. initially planned to attend the university’s campus in Anaheim until learning about the advantages of moving to the Lone Star State.聽

“I originally heard about 国产主播 from California because that’s where I was living previously,” she said. “But then I found out that Texas is actually a cheaper option, and I decided to move to Texas.”

The transition from California to Texas was made smoother by 国产主播鈥檚 support, Esther explained. Despite never having visited the Texas campus before her move, she described her first impression as overwhelmingly positive.

“When I first stepped foot on the campus, I thought it was beautiful; it took my breath away,” she said. 

Esther鈥檚 decision to pursue nursing stemmed from personal experiences. 

“I picked nursing because when I was young, I often spent most of my time in the hospital, and the nurses made it such a wonderful place to be that I didn’t even want to leave,” Esther said. 

She was determined to share that same compassion and care with her future patients. 

Adjusting to life in Texas was a surprisingly smooth experience for Esther. 

“I adjusted really well, actually. I’m very grateful that I moved because I got to have family here, and I’m not going back anytime soon,” she said. 

She recommended Dallas as a vibrant place to live, adding, “The food is great, the culture is great, the people are good. It鈥檚 a wonderful place to live 鈥� not in the summer, though!” 

Esther reflected on the strong relationships she built at 国产主播. 

“My relationship with my classmates was amazing; I found my forever family in nursing school,” she said. 鈥淩elationships with the professors and faculty were also really good because, at West Coast, they value student input, so communication was always flowing.” 

As for her preparation for the nursing field, she credited the university’s rigorous support. 

“West Coast prepared me amazingly for the NCLEX and for nursing as a whole,” she said. 

At her pinning ceremony, Esther celebrated her achievements and offered advice to future students: “You can’t do nursing school alone, so find that family or friend that you can rely on because it is going to get tough. Use your resources early and remember why you started nursing school.” 

The post From California to Texas: BSN Graduate Reflects on Her Path to Nursing at 国产主播 appeared first on 国产主播.

Recent 国产主播-Texas graduate Jemima O.’s journey to her nursing pinning was far from easy. She had faced an academic suspension at a previous school, a setback that many might have seen as the end of their dreams. Yet, for Jemima, it was the start of a new chapter. Encouraged by a friend who praised 国产主播’s hands-on approach and robust support system, she decided to give nursing school another shot. 

鈥淚鈥檓 so excited,鈥� Jemima shared. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been a long time coming鈥� a lot of bumps, but it鈥檚 all worth it.鈥� 

Jemima’s passion for nursing began in middle school with a desire to care for babies, and it deepened further after losing her grandmother in 2020. 

鈥淪he passed from an asthma attack in Nigeria, and my mom always said she didn鈥檛 feel supported,鈥� Jemima recalled. 

This experience fueled her commitment to becoming a nurse who truly listens and cares for her patients, extending that care to families, too. 

“Nursing is way more than giving meds or helping patients rehab. It’s caring for the individual, getting to their level, and building a patient-nurse relationship,鈥� she said. “I want to be that nurse that listens … that’s my goal, to really listen to the patient and let them tell me what to do.” 

Throughout her time at 国产主播, Jemima pushed herself beyond her comfort zone. Initially shy, she embraced roles like being a PAL tutor and work-study student, which helped her grow both professionally and personally. Her professors and peers provided the encouragement and resources she needed, enabling her to transform from a struggling student into one on the Dean’s List. 

鈥淚t was a huge move from Houston to Dallas for school, especially because I wasn’t successful in my other school. I came from somewhere very low. I came from a place where I was basically academically suspended, and then I was getting A’s and was on the Dean’s List,” Jemima said. “And my professors are a big reason for that. There’s a lot of moments that you might feel like you can’t do it but to see that I’m here now is unbelievable.” 

Having just passed her NCLEX exam, Jemima feels prepared and confident for her career ahead. 

鈥淚鈥檝e been taught the skills and critical thinking鈥� I think I鈥檓 ready,鈥� she said. 

Her advice to future students is simple but powerful: 鈥淯se your resources鈥� be vocal about what you鈥檙e dealing with鈥� keep going.鈥� 

The post WCU-Texas BSN Graduate Didn鈥榯 Let Early Stumble Knock Her Off Path of Becoming Nurse appeared first on 国产主播.

Kelly W., a 国产主播 alumna, veteran, and scholarship recipient, recently shared her inspiring journey.

At 17, Kelly made the decision to enlist in the military and had begun boot camp by the time she turned 18. Over the course of the next 12 years and two military tours, she developed invaluable skills and values that she later applied to her civilian career in healthcare.

In 2009, Kelly began her nursing education as part of WCU鈥檚 first graduating class in the LPN to ADN pathway program. She went on to earn her bachelor of science in nursing from WCU-Ontario in 2013, eventually becoming a nurse practitioner and clinical instructor at her alma mater.

For the past five and a half years, Kelly has worked in a pediatric emergency room while teaching clinical pediatrics students at WCU. She is deeply committed to supporting students and advocating for children. Recently, she embarked on a new academic journey, pursuing an MBA with a focus on healthcare. In recognition of her contributions to the community, WCU awarded her a scholarship to support her continued education.

What led you to join the Army?

My childhood was not easy, and I didn鈥檛 think I could support myself financially to get an education. While in high school, I joined the ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) and learned about the military. I joined the U.S. Army Reserves in 2002 in a medical unit. I reenlisted and did two tours overseas. Overall, I stayed for 12 years, so I enjoyed it.

How did the Army lead you to nursing?

I was working with a lot of medics, nurses and people in the healthcare field. I wanted to continue on and do more than just screening and triaging. I deployed in 2004 and was in the field. I came back and worked as an LVN but wanted to return to get my RN.

Why did you choose to attend WCU?

I saw they had the LVN to RN bridge program, and they were a GI school. Coming from the military, I wanted to use my benefits. I was happy the university was supporting veterans and was accredited. Given my background, I was able to grow in my career.

How do the skills you gained in the military impact your work as a nurse?

I live by Army values every day: selfless service, integrity, honor. I love it. I鈥檓 disciplined now because of my time in the military. I don鈥檛 take the little things for granted. I鈥檓 also reliable and responsible 鈥� I鈥檝e stayed in most of my jobs for a long time because I feel devoted.

What made you want to return to teach at WCU?

When I graduated as a pediatric nurse practitioner, I got a job working in the pediatric emergency department. I also applied to teach at WCU. I love what I do and I wanted the students to realize what it is to take care of kids. Being in the emergency department, I felt I could bring a new perspective.

How did you run your clinical sessions as an instructor?

The feedback I often got was that they loved that I was so hands-on. I would take them to the emergency department and if there were baby catheters or IVs, I always volunteered to do it with my students so I could teach them the skills. They were grateful and excited to accomplish something with a patient. We would huddle at the end of the clinical and they would discuss their cases and feel proud of what they did.

Why are you #WCUProud?

I feel proud that I am recognized as an alumnus. I think it鈥檚 great that there鈥檚 unity within the university. I remember being there, and we had a veteran group. There was a lot of camaraderie. I also want to say thank you to WCU for continuing to support my career progression. I feel a family connection with the university, given the longevity I鈥檝e had with them as both a student and a professor. I feel honored to be a recipient of this scholarship.

Editor鈥檚 Note: This interview was edited for length and clarity.

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