Nursing Archives | ��

WCU-Miami BSN Nursing Student Honored with Daisy Award for Stepping Up During Pediatric Code on Clinical Rotation

�� — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 16:00:56 +0000

�� nursing student Genie R. was recently recognized with the prestigious Daisy Award, honoring her compassionate care and poise during a critical moment in her clinical rotation. The BSN student, who is set to graduate later in 2025, was surprised with the award during class — completely unaware she had even been nominated.

The moment that sparked Rene’s nomination happened during a clinical rotation in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, when a pediatric patient went into cardiac arrest. Though still a student, Rene instinctively jumped into action — supporting the medical team, gathering supplies, and anticipating needs, all while staying within her scope of practice.

“It was just like a nice flow with the unit,” she said. “Thank God that in skills and in the simulation lab they teach you the proper names for the tools and materials that we need.”

For Rene, the experience was a powerful validation of the simulation-based training she received at WCU, which she credits with helping her stay composed in a high-stress situation.

“SIM is extremely important. It came in handy during the code while in clinicals,” she said.

Rene’s motivation to pursue nursing is deeply personal. Her mother’s long battle with illness shaped her understanding of what compassionate care truly looks like. She still remembers a particular nurse who made an impression not just for how she cared for her mother, but for how she treated Rene as well.

“She didn’t only give attention to my mom, but also to me,” she said. “She always made sure her linen was clean… she brought that extra step or extra care that was not part of her scope, but she did it anyway.”

Rene hopes to bring that same energy to her future patients.

“I treat patients like they’re my family,” she said. “I just hope that I’m remembered as, ‘Oh my gosh, she went the extra mile.’”

Even as many in the field move away from bedside nursing, Rene remains committed.

“They remember your name. They remember what you did for them when you bring that extra care,” she said.

With her heart set on making a difference, Rene’s journey is just beginning — but she’s already leaving a lasting impression.

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Set Back Became Steppingstone for WCU-Texas BSN Graduate

�� — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 16:00:32 +0000

Queenstar K. knew balancing school and family responsibilities while attending �� would not be easy, but one thing she didn’t expect was to fail a class. However, with the support of WCU staff and her unwavering determination, she crossed the stage as a proud BSN graduate in 2024.

“There was a point where I thought I was done,” Queenstar admitted. “I said to myself, ‘I’m not going any further.’ But one professor told me, ‘You are not quitting. You will get through this.’ That encouragement pushed me to keep going.”

Failing a class was a tough blow, but Queenstar viewed it as a stepping stone rather than a setback. She found strength in the camaraderie of her peers, particularly her new study group.

“We studied together, held each other’s hands, and sometimes met in coffee shops to keep pushing through,” she said. “They even called me ‘grandma’ because I was always pushing them, even if they were sleeping!”

Queenstar also leaned heavily on the tools and resources offered by WCU.

“The professors were amazing, and I took full advantage of the resources. I met with professors one-on-one, joined study groups, and used every tool the school had to offer,” she shared.

Her perseverance didn’t go unnoticed by her family, who traveled from Canada, New York, and Connecticut to celebrate her graduation. “They are waiting to scream when I cross the stage,” she said proudly.

Looking ahead to 2025, Queenstar is ready to reenter the workforce and make a difference as a nurse. She also plans to pursue her master’s degree.

“If you know nursing is your passion, focus on it,” she said. “Don’t do it because you need money but do it from your heart.”

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WCU Alum Finds Confidence and Meaning in Nursing Career While Following in Mother’s Footsteps

�� — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Bea M. always felt in her heart that her life purpose was to help people. However, initially, she stayed away from nursing, wanting to forge her own path. As a child, she observed her mother and aunts working as nurses after arriving in the U.S. from the Philippines. Bea went on to try acting, dancing, music, sports, and social work before realizing nursing was her true calling. In March 2024, she graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from ��’s Los Angeles campus.

Growing up in the suburbs of the Bay Area, Bea recalled the pressure to succeed. “As children of immigrants, there was a lot of competition with one another,” she said. “I was bullied a lot as a kid. I didn’t pick up things as fast as the others. I thought maybe I wasn’t smart enough to be a nurse.”

After working in social work, Bea determined it was not the career for her. She decided to study abroad in Seoul, South Korea. “I did some searching within myself,” she said. “With these new experiences and meeting people from all over the world, I gained a new perspective that I should give nursing a try.”

After returning, she began a vocational nursing program just as the world entered the pandemic. Afterward, Bea recognized that nursing had been her path all along. “That was the first time in my entire life that I finished something with academic honors, and I realized that maybe I was actually good at this,” she said. “I made it this far — I might as well continue.”

While working at an acute psych clinic, Bea applied to the LVN to BSN program at WCU. “I moved out here with just luggage and couch surfed until I finally got an apartment and job that I could balance with my schoolwork.”

Throughout the program, Bea said she faced imposter syndrome. “Because of my past being bullied, I struggled a lot with my mental health,” she shared. “But as soon as I started nursing, I felt like this was the way I could make a difference.”

Bea quickly bonded with her fellow classmates and faculty. She particularly appreciated her time with Professor Jennifer Uebe. “We still keep in touch to this day. She inspired me to be more confident in my clinical decision-making and to stand up for myself,” Bea said. “She always treated her classes as a team sport. I was used to doing things on my own, but knowing there is a team behind you helps so much.”

Today, Bea works as a critical care nurse in the intensive care unit at a Southern California hospital. She described being proud she has made it this far, noting that her mother worked in the same unit and specialty. During harder moments, Bea has been able to lean on her mom through their shared experience. “The first time I ever lost a patient, I remember going to my car and crying, and my first thought was to call my mom,” Bea said. “My mom told me, ‘Did you do everything you could? Did you give it your all?’ I said yes, and she said, ‘Then that is enough.’ It gave me a sense of peace. Especially in this career and unit, that is it. We do our best. We give it our all. At the end of the day, that is all we can do.”

Bea is proud of her status as a WCU alumni. “I’ve met a lot of coworkers and whatnot who were also WCU nurses or alumni, and they’ve always been the best people to work with in my experience,” Bea said. “To be one of them and to hopefully carry on that same care is to embody the pride and reputation I’ve been given.”

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Stuck on a Nursing Waitlist? Consider WCU

Courtney Eaves — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 19:40:48 +0000

If you’re looking to advance your nursing education, you may have encountered a waitlist — or know someone else who has — at some point. Waiting for acceptance can be frustrating, especially when it delays your career goals and you’re ready to start now.

Rather than putting your future on hold, consider a school that values your passion and commitment to succeed. �� (WCU) proudly offers an accredited, no-waitlist Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at its Miami and Dallas-area campuses, allowing you to begin quickly without sacrificing quality.

Starting sooner means you can begin making a difference sooner. Read on to learn more about nursing school waitlists and why choosing a program without a waiting list can be a smart move.

What is the Average Waitlist Time for a Nursing Program?

Since every school is different, the average wait time for entering a nursing program can vary significantly. While certain nursing programs may allow entry within only a few semesters, others might require applicants to wait several years.

This is because nursing waitlists vary widely depending on factors such as:

Your GPA
The nursing courses you’ve completed
How long you’ve been waiting to enter the nursing program

Although waiting to make it off the list is an option, it may mean postponing your nursing career for months or even years. WCU’s no-waitlist admissions process allows qualified applicants to begin their education sooner and gain the hands-on experience needed to succeed in the nursing field.

What Are the Benefits of No-Waitlist Schools?

Beyond prompt enrollment, there are other benefits to attending no-waitlist schools. If you’re a prospective nurse, consider the time and uncertainty that can arise while waiting to hear back on your acceptance. Below are a few advantages of attending a no-waitlist school.

1. You Can Start Your Nursing Career Faster

It makes sense that no-waitlist nursing programs can save you precious time toward starting your nursing career. Some BSN programs offer accelerated paces, allowing you to complete your education more efficiently. In fact, the BSN programs at WCU’s Texas and Miami campuses can be completed in as little as 39 months at the Accelerated pace.

Starting your nursing career faster can also empower you to fill the gap. In high-population states like Texas and Florida, completing your education sooner positions you to make a difference in the expansive healthcare industry.

2. You’ll Reduce Stress From Uncertainty

Waiting to hear back from a nursing program can feel overwhelming, especially when your future plans are on hold. The uncertainty of not knowing when — or even if — you’ll be accepted into a program can add unnecessary stress to the experience.

With accredited no-waitlist nursing programs, you can minimize that uncertainty and put your energy into preparing for your nursing career without delays.

3. You Can Save Money on Your Education

If you’re located in a high cost-of-living state with long nursing school waitlists (like California), you might want to consider relocating for nursing school. Moving to states like Florida or Texas to pursue your BSN degree can both eliminate waitlists and make your education more affordable. You’ll receive a quality education for less.

4. You’re Able to Enroll Anytime Without Pressure

Knowing you can enroll right away can give you a clear timeline for your education, allowing you to focus on your studies and career goals instead of worrying about waitlists or reapplying year after year.

Whether you’re just getting started in the field of nursing or transitioning from another healthcare field, you can rest easy knowing that you can start your education on your own terms.

Skip Nursing School Waitlists and Graduate Sooner at WCU

If you’re ready to embark on a career helping others, you don’t have to wait. WCU’s accredited BSN program at its Miami and Dallas-area campuses offers the hands-on training needed to succeed. Students learn from experienced faculty and receive support in securing clinical training in the local area — all without having to face the uncertainty of lengthy waitlists.

Plus, if you’re wondering how to pay for your tuition, WCU’s financial aid advisors are here to help you determine your options.

When you earn your BSN at the Dallas-Fort Worth location, you may qualify for a of up to $9,500 per academic year. Prospective BSN students attending the Miami, Florida location may also qualify for the same grant of up to $6,500 per academic year.

Learn why so many driven nurses choose �� as their nursing school for a meaningful, quality education — schedule your tour today.

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WCU Professor Empowers Students to Thrive in Diverse Healthcare

�� — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:00:47 +0000

When Associate Professor Sunil T. walks into a classroom, he brings with him over two decades of clinical experience and a passion for shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. With 11 years at ��’s Orange County campus, Sunil has been a guiding force for countless nursing students, helping them navigate their academic and professional journeys.

A Global Nursing Career

Sunil’s path to teaching was paved with hands-on experience across the globe. After earning his bachelor’s degree in India, he began his career as a registered nurse. “I worked at the bedside in various capacities—emergency rooms, intensive care units, and med-surge,” Sunil shared. His clinical expertise extended to specialized areas such as plastic surgery and emergency care, where he spent the majority of his time.

Teaching was always on his horizon. “In India, I taught nursing students, and that experience stayed with me,” he said. “When I moved to the U.S., I saw an opportunity to continue teaching while bringing my global perspective to a diverse student body.”

A Culture of Support and Inclusion

Sunil credits ��’s supportive environment as a key factor in his professional growth and his ability to contribute to student success. “The leadership here is incredibly accommodating,” he said. “They provided resources I needed to transition smoothly into teaching in a new country.”

The university’s commitment to diversity has been pivotal in Sunil’s journey. “West Coast embraces people from all backgrounds,” he noted. “This inclusivity creates a rich learning environment where students and faculty can thrive together.”

Student-Centered Education

For Sunil, the real reward of teaching lies in witnessing his students’ transformation. “�� is truly student-centric,” he emphasized. “I teach pharmacology, which is one of the first courses students take, and nursing integration, their final class. Seeing their growth from day one to graduation is incredibly fulfilling.”

He recalled the impact of the university’s comprehensive support system, which includes academic specialists, mentoring programs, and student services. “Students often tell me how much they value the guidance they receive. It’s a collaborative effort that ensures their success.”

Preparing Students for Real-World Challenges

Sunil’s diverse professional background allows him to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for the realities of healthcare. “In India, nursing practices and resources differ significantly from the U.S.,” he explained. “Sharing these global perspectives helps students understand the importance of adaptability and cultural competence in patient care.”

This approach resonates deeply with students, particularly in the diverse communities they serve. “Our students are trained to be empathetic, inclusive, and effective healthcare providers,” Sunil said.

Fostering Growth Through Innovation

Sunil values the academic adaptability at ��, which allows him to innovate in his teaching methods. “I have the flexibility to tailor my classes to meet students’ needs while staying within the curriculum,” he said. “This not only enhances their learning experience but also prepares them for the dynamic nature of healthcare.”

Additionally, the university encourages faculty professional development. “I completed my Doctorate of Nursing Practice while teaching full-time,” Sunil shared. “The administration’s support and the university’s flexibility made it possible.”

A Legacy of Student Success

Sunil’s commitment to his students goes beyond the classroom. “Every graduation is a celebration of their hard work and growth,” he said. “Knowing I played a part in their journey is what drives me.”

Reflecting on his time at ��, “This is a place where students and faculty are empowered to succeed. It’s an honor to be part of a community that values growth, collaboration, and, most importantly, student success.” he said.

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WCU-Ontario BSN Cohort Speaker Shares Inspiring ‘Why’ Behind Nursing

�� — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 17:00:00 +0000

At ��’s January 2025 nursing pinning, student speaker Valerie A. took the stage with a message that resonated deeply with her fellow graduates: Remember your why.

Reflecting on the challenges they faced — rigorous exams, sleepless nights, and the weight of clinical responsibilities — Valerie acknowledged the perseverance that brought each student to this moment. But beyond academic struggles, she urged her peers to look inward and recall the deeper reason they chose this path in the first place.

For Valerie, that moment of clarity came in January 2019 when she stepped into an overcrowded emergency room for the first time.

Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, where she performed CPR on 839 patients. What she saw — the patients sitting on floors with oxygen tanks, isolation tents overflowing, and nurses crying in supply rooms on their nonexistent breaks — left an indelible mark. These experiences, she said, put life’s everyday anxieties into perspective and ignited a calling that would change the trajectory of her life.

“I walked into that ER as a blank slate, unsure of how this experience was going to change me, but within a few months, I found myself applying to �� on a path that would change the trajectory of my life forever,” she said.

Now, as she and her classmates step into the next phase of their careers, Valerie acknowledged that new challenges await. Nursing is more than a job — it is a profound responsibility. They will witness both the fragility of life and the joy of bringing new life into the world.

“We’re going to experience a new form of anxiety that will challenge our innermost tenacity. You may have the unimaginable duty to hold somebody’s hand in their final moments. You may also witness the joy of bringing a new life into the world, but ultimately, you will share in the raw vulnerability that patients experience when they walk into those acute care settings,” Valerie said. “I want you all to remember we’ve been chosen for this honor, and I want you all to remember your ‘why.’ We’re about to have a profound impact on the people around us, and it is our insatiable appetite to help others that have shaped us into the nurses who sit here today.”

Valerie closed her address with gratitude — thanking her family, professors, and fellow students for their support throughout the journey. And as she looked ahead to the future, she left her peers with a powerful reminder:

“We all had a dream stepping through the doors of ��. Now, we’ve achieved the ultimate accomplishment. Congratulations, January 2025 cohort — I can’t wait to see you all in the clinical setting.”

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First-Generation WCU-Miami Graduate Achieves Dream of Becoming a Nurse

�� — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 14:00:07 +0000

From early high school, Lorelys A. knew she wanted a career centered on helping people. A certified nursing assistant program at 16 sparked her passion for nursing, setting her on a focused path that led her straight to �� — a choice she made because of its healthcare focus.

Now a proud graduate of ��’s accelerated nursing program and a pediatric registered nurse, Lorelys shared that what set WCU-Miami apart was its student-centered approach.

“If you had an issue, they would take their time to address it,” she recalled.

Throughout her journey, she leaned on university resources such as the virtual library, tutoring programs, and even a question bank to prepare for the rigorous NCLEX exam. After graduating in March and passing the exam in May, Lorelys stepped into her current role as a school-based pediatric nurse, where she supports two young patients with diabetes and seizure conditions. Managing an accelerated nursing program was no small feat. Time management and prioritization were key, but she also credits her family for their unwavering support.

“My parents made sure I had everything I needed, from meals to encouragement,” she shared

As the first in her family to graduate college, Lorelys feels a deep sense of pride and gratitude. She hopes her story inspires others to pursue their passions, no matter how challenging the path may seem.

For future nursing students, Lorelys offered simple but powerful advice: “Work really hard. Your dreams can come true. Even if it seems impossible, you can do it.”

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Moving From California to Texas Opened New Opportunities for WCU BSN Graduate

�� — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000

For Courtney W., a move from California to Texas wasn’t just a change in scenery — 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 ��-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.

“I was making good money in California, but I didn’t have that RN title,” she explained. “More and more jobs are asking for RNs now.”

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

Though the transition wasn’t without challenges, such as adjusting to RN-level test-taking and maintaining her focus, Wilson found unwavering support at ��.

“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’s possible. Don’t limit yourself,” she advised. “You can do it.”

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Road to Nursing Took �� Student from San Diego to Texas

�� — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 15:00:00 +0000

For many, the path to nursing is more than just a career choice — it’s a calling shaped by personal experiences and a desire to make a difference. Evelyn Z., a nursing student at �� in Richardson, Texas, embodies this journey.

A Childhood Spark

Evelyn’s passion for nursing ignited at a young age. Her mother, a certified nursing assistant, often brought her along to visit patients in nursing homes. “I remember being 6 or 7, walking into those rooms and seeing patients who didn’t have family around, especially during the holidays,” Evelyn recalled. These early experiences planted the seed for her love of caregiving, inspiring her to pursue a career in nursing.

But nursing wasn’t just a childhood whim; it was a shared dream. Evelyn’s mother, who emigrated from Mexico City, had once aspired to be a nurse herself. Unfortunately, language barriers prevented her from achieving that goal. “She was always supportive,” Evelyn shared. “In a way, I feel like I’m fulfilling her dream as well.”

The Leap of Faith: Moving to Texas

Evelyn’s journey to WCU was far from linear. Originally from San Diego, California, she faced numerous obstacles while applying to nursing schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many programs in her area were either paused or not accepting new students. Determined not to let these setbacks deter her, Evelyn expanded her search to other states.

Texas stood out, not just because her sister was planning a move there, but because of WCU’s program. “I needed a flexible schedule to work while attending school,” Evelyn explained. “WCU offered that, and it was a game-changer.”

With the support of a helpful admissions advisor, Evelyn made the bold decision to move to Texas. Leaving behind her family, friends, and the familiar comfort of California, she embarked on a new chapter, driven by her goal of becoming a nurse.

Building a New Community

Transitioning to a new state wasn’t easy, but Evelyn found a sense of belonging at WCU. “The community here is incredible,” she said. “I’ve made close friends who share the same goals, and the school is so student-centric. They really listen to us and make adjustments based on our feedback.”

Though she misses her family and the beaches of San Diego, Evelyn has discovered new joys in Texas, including its vibrant coffee shop scene. Balancing school, work, and time with her church community has kept her grounded and focused.

A Passion for Patient Care

Evelyn’s clinical experiences have solidified her love for nursing. Guided by compassionate professors, she has honed her skills and gained confidence in her abilities. “One clinical professor, in particular, really changed my perspective,” she noted. “She explained procedures in a way that made everything click and emphasized the importance of patient-centered care.”

Initially drawn to labor and delivery, Evelyn is now exploring other specialties like emergency nursing. “I love the fast-paced environment,” she said. “But wherever I end up, I know I want to bring comfort and hope to my patients.”

Advice for Aspiring Nurses

For students considering a move for their education, Evelyn’s message is clear: “Don’t let fear hold you back. If nursing is your passion, take the leap. The experience will not only shape your career but also your confidence and resilience.”

Evelyn plans to return to California after graduation to be closer to her family, but she will carry the lessons and experiences from Texas with her. “This journey has been life-changing,” she reflected. “I’ve grown so much as a person and as a future nurse.”

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From Survivor to Advocate: How One Alumna Found Her Calling in Oncology

�� — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Cynthia C., BSN ’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.

“Cancer gave me a second chance at life,” Cynthia reflected. “Now, I understand my purpose. If I wasn’t sure before, I am now.”

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.

“After going through chemo and meeting other patients, I told my mom I wanted to work in oncology,” she shared. “My goal was to pay it forward.”

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

“He kept telling me I would make a great nurse,” she recalled. “’You empathize with the patients,’ he said. ‘You genuinely care.’”

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

“Having gone through cancer myself, I can truly empathize with all of them,” she said. “It’s incredibly fulfilling.”

Cynthia enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at ��’s 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.

“I didn’t have a single day off,” she said. “Every day was either work, school, or clinical, and I still had to go home and be a mom.”

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

“I’m so thankful for the experience and proud to be a part of West Coast,” she said. “The staff and students I met still stay in touch. It’s like a family.”

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.

“Cancer isn’t something you can cover with a bandage. Many people don’t know where to turn,” Cynthia said.

Cynthia’s 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.

“I see myself in them,” she said. “We’re 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’re not alone.”

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