At 国产主播, the journey from classroom to career is a transformative experience, and no one understands this better than Diana L., our Career Services associate director at the Orange County campus. With a passion for student success and a background in HR and recruitment, Diana has dedicated the last four years to helping students not only achieve their career goals but also discover their “why” in the healthcare field. 

A Passion for People: From Recruitment to Career Services 

Diana’s journey to 国产主播 began in the healthcare recruitment industry, where she connected with aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals. Her role allowed her to delve into the personal stories of candidates, understanding their motivations and aspirations. This interest in people鈥檚 stories is what drew her to a career in Career Services at 国产主播. 

“I was always interested in getting to know the candidates’ stories and understanding why they became nurses,” Diana explained. “When I learned about what 国产主播 does to prepare its students for the job search, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.” 

Transitioning from recruitment to Career Services was a natural fit for Diana. It allowed her to continue her passion for guiding individuals on their career paths while also playing a more direct role in their professional development. 

“I love getting to know all my students, learning about their journeys, and helping them with the skills they need to excel in their interviews and job search,” she said. 

The Heart of Career Services: Understanding the Student’s “Why” 

For Diana, one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is understanding each student’s unique reason for pursuing a career in nursing. 

“Every student has their own story, often rooted in personal experiences,” she shared. 

Whether it’s a former CNA who discovered their calling through hands-on care or a volunteer who found their passion in the hospital setting, these stories are what drive Diana to provide the best support possible. 

She emphasizes the importance of helping students articulate their “why” during the job search process. 

“Employers want to know why a candidate chose nursing as a career, and it鈥檚 our job to help students convey that passion in a way that resonates during interviews,” she explained. 

From Student to Professional: A Journey of Growth 

Diana described Career Services as the “endpoint” in a student’s journey at 国产主播, where all their hard work culminates in landing their first nursing position. This journey is often filled with emotions 鈥� nerves, excitement, and a sense of achievement.聽

“It’s incredibly rewarding to receive that call or email from a student saying they’ve received an offer,” Diana said. “Seeing their growth from their first day in nursing school to the moment they accept a job offer is one of the best parts of my role.” 

She takes pride in the fact that her team is there every step of the way, from preparing students for interviews to celebrating their successes. But Diana is quick to remind students that their success is ultimately due to their hard work and determination. 

“I always tell them, ‘It was all you.’ They put in the effort, excelled in school, and presented themselves well during interviews,” she added. 

A Collaborative Culture Focused on Students 

What makes 国产主播 truly unique, according to Diana, is its student-centric approach. 

“Every decision we make in Career Services is with our students in mind,” she said. 

Whether it鈥檚 planning workshops, organizing employer events, or providing one-on-one support, the goal is always to enhance the student experience and prepare them for success in the real world. 

This student-centric focus is supported by a collaborative culture across all campuses. Diana highlights the teamwork that exists not only within the Career Services department but also with other departments like Student Affairs, the Nursing department, and the NCLEX team. 

“We all have different roles, but at the end of the day, we work together with a common goal: our students,” she explained. 

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Inspired by her own experiences with sports injuries as a child, Samantha S. found solace and strength in the care of her physical therapist. 

鈥淚 made a really great connection with my (physical therapist), and what I did with (physical therapy) helped me become a better person, both physically and mentally,鈥� she recalled. 

This connection aided her recovery and ignited her passion for helping others achieve their full potential. And at the heart of her studies at 国产主播鈥檚 Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles, Samantha has discovered a nurturing environment that fosters growth and support. 

鈥淭he first time I was here, I was really scared because I had no idea what the postgraduate life was going to bring,鈥� she admitted, but that fear quickly dissipated as she found herself embraced by a community that saw her as more than just a number. 

鈥淵ou鈥檙e literally a person here that could make a really big impact on somebody鈥檚 life, and being in a cohort full of 44 people, we’re going to be in the same classes. There’s no competition,鈥� she said, reflecting on her experience with the Doctor of Physical Therapy program faculty and her peers. 鈥淚 just love the overall community because we are here just to help every single one of us.鈥� 

Samantha鈥檚 dedication extends beyond the classroom. As a PT Movement Ambassador and an activities coordinator in the DPT student government, she plays a vital role in educating others about the diverse opportunities within the field of physical therapy. 

鈥淲e represent 国产主播, but we鈥檙e just representing PT as future physical therapists,鈥� she explained. 

Her involvement in community outreach, particularly in educating younger students about PT and occupational therapy, has been both challenging and rewarding. 

鈥淟earning how to communicate with children is a really hard skill鈥� but it鈥檚 a really good thing to learn,鈥� she said. 

Samantha鈥檚 ultimate goal is to specialize in pediatrics, where she hopes to bring joy and positivity to the lives of young patients. 

鈥淎s a physical therapy student, I hope to bring happiness,鈥� she added. 

Her passion for connecting with children and her desire to leave a lasting impact is evident in her every word. Samantha鈥檚 advice to future PT students is to take it 鈥渄ay by day鈥� and to prioritize their mental well-being. 

鈥淵ou鈥檙e learning,鈥� she said. 鈥淒on鈥檛 be too hard on yourself because, in the end, you鈥檙e becoming a great clinician.鈥� 

The post DPT Student鈥檚 Dedication to Empowering Others Started at an Early Age聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

Embarking on a nursing career is a significant decision, marked by both excitement and challenges. For Shelsia G., a student in the BSN program at 国产主播-Miami, this decision was driven by a deep passion for helping others and a desire to honor her mother’s legacy.聽

Shelsia鈥檚 experience at 国产主播 started after a period of dissatisfaction at a different university. She felt unmotivated and disconnected until her mother, inspired by the kindness and professionalism of 国产主播 nursing students she observed at a hospital, encouraged her to explore the program. This encouragement led Shelsia to research her options, ultimately choosing 国产主播 as the place where she could fulfill her aspirations. 

“The whole process was done in two days,” Shelsia recalled, emphasizing how smooth and efficient her transition was. “It wasn’t hard at all, and I felt like this is where I was supposed to be.” 

While starting at a new school can be intimidating, Shelsia quickly found support from her peers and professors. From her first day at orientation, she connected with fellow students, forming friendships that were crucial throughout her education. 

“We all made a group chat, and it makes your life easier when you can help each other out,” she explained. 

Shelsia’s choice to pursue nursing is deeply personal. Born in Cuba, her mother was a nurse who couldn鈥檛 continue her profession after moving to the United States. For Shelsia, nursing is a way to honor her mother鈥檚 sacrifices while pursuing her own passion. 

“She supports me in everything,” Shelsia said. “I want to do this for her and myself.” 

As she continues her studies, Shelsia is already thinking about her future in nursing. While she is drawn to working with babies and in labor and delivery, she remains open to exploring different specialties before making a final decision. 

“I want to wait until I really see what each specialty brings and then decide,” she said. 

For those considering a career in nursing, Shelsia offers sincere advice: “You really have to have the heart for it. Patients feel the kindness from you, and when they’re at their lowest, you’re there to make their lives easier.” 

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In a collaborative and informative event, 国产主播 Occupational Therapy Dean Dr. Stacey Willis was featured as a distinguished panelist during a multi-disciplinary panel for Occupational Therapy Assistant students at American Career College. The panel brought together leading experts from various fields, including mental health, pediatric, and acute care facilities, creating a unique learning experience for the OTA students.  

The discussion centered around the diverse career pathways available in occupational therapy, providing insights from professionals who work in specialized areas. Experts from mental health emphasized the critical role OTAs play in helping individuals navigate emotional and psychological challenges. At the same time, pediatric care professionals shared inspiring stories about working with children to foster development and independence. The acute care representatives discussed the fast-paced nature of hospital settings, where OTAs are instrumental in aiding patients’ recovery and transition back to daily life.  

A key highlight of the event was the Occupational Therapy Assistant Pathway presentation. This groundbreaking initiative allows OTA students to transition seamlessly from the OTA program to WCU鈥檚 Occupational Therapy (MSOT) degree program. This pathway provides a streamlined route for OTAs to further their education and pursue a master’s degree in OT, opening the door to advanced career opportunities in occupational therapy.聽聽

The panel showcased the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare and underscored the commitment of ACC and WCU to support their students’ professional growth and development. The pathway program represents a vital step forward in creating a more adaptable and skilled workforce in occupational therapy.  

Students left the event feeling empowered, equipped with knowledge, and inspired by the potential career pathways available to them as they progress in their journeys from OTA to OT.  

This panel marked another milestone in the partnership between ACC and WCU, reinforcing their shared mission to provide exceptional education and opportunities for students aspiring to excel in the dynamic and rewarding field of occupational therapy. 

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国产主播-Texas Master of Physician Assistant students once again demonstrated their skills in medical knowledge, securing second and third place at the Texas Academy of Physician Assistants (TAPA) Student Challenge Bowl.  

Competing against 18 universities from across Texas, WCU’s achievement is especially remarkable as all four of its teams advanced to the second round 鈥� an honor only six teams earned overall, leaving room for just two teams from other schools. 

This success builds on the momentum from earlier this year when WCU-Texas made waves on a national stage at the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) National Medical Challenge Bowl. The WCU team placed in the top 4 percent nationally, showcasing their knowledge and skill in a highly competitive arena. Their strong performance at the AAPA event laid the foundation for the success at TAPA, as students and faculty continued to refine their strategies and expand their expertise.聽

Professor Akisha Dave, who played a key role in preparing both the AAPA and TAPA teams, praised the students鈥� dedication and hard work. 

“It’s been an incredible journey to see our students excel at both national and state levels. Their passion for learning and teamwork has been inspiring,” Dave said. 

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At 国产主播, we believe every student鈥檚 journey is unique and filled with challenges, triumphs, and moments of self-discovery. One of our faculty members, Kat L. recently shared insights into the student journeys that inspire her the most.聽

While every student at WCU-Miami holds a special place in her heart, she particularly treasures those who face difficulties in the academic setting but truly shine in clinical practice. 

These students, she explains, may struggle with the pressures of testing and lectures, but when it comes to patient care, they excel. Their ability to connect with patients, provide compassionate care, and demonstrate strong clinical skills speaks volumes about their potential as future nurses. 

“You knew that they can go in and take care of those patients, and they were so sweet to the patients and gave the best care,” she said, reflecting on how these students’ clinical strengths will ultimately make them better nurses, even if their test scores don’t always reflect their capabilities. 

For students grappling with the academic side of their education, her advice is simple yet powerful: utilize all the resources available. 国产主播 offers a wealth of support programs, from student affairs and peer-assisted learning (PALS) to the professors themselves, who are always ready to help. 

“Our offices are all glass,” she noted, highlighting the transparency and accessibility of the faculty. “If I’m sitting there, you can easily come in and say, ‘Hey, can you help me with this topic?’鈥� 

This commitment to student success doesn鈥檛 end at graduation. As a clinical instructor who continues to work alongside new nurses, she finds immense pride in seeing her former students thrive in their careers. 

“I’ve been in interviews where the students are being interviewed for a job, and we start asking them clinical questions, and they can answer them appropriately. I’m like, yes!” 

Seeing 国产主播 alumni flourish on the job, transitioning from students to competent bedside nurses, is a source of great joy and fulfillment. 

And, of course, there’s something special about the vibrant Miami campus that adds to the overall experience. The local culture, the camaraderie among students, and even the simple pleasures like enjoying a “cafecito” together in class contribute to the unique and supportive environment that 国产主播-Miami offers. 

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Mary D.’s path to the medical field began long before she ever stepped foot on 国产主播鈥檚 Texas campus. However, life had a way of steering her in a different direction. 

Growing up in the Dallas area, Mary always knew she wanted to work in healthcare. The idea of diagnosing and helping people appealed to her, but she wasn’t sure which role suited her best. Like many, her initial thoughts leaned towards becoming a doctor, as that was the most familiar route. 

It wasn鈥檛 until she discovered that her family medicine provider 鈥� someone she had trusted for most of her life 鈥� was a physician assistant (PA) that piqued her interest in this profession. Mary began to research more about the PA role, finding herself particularly drawn to the lateral mobility it offered. Unlike doctors, who often specialize in one area, PAs have the unique ability to switch specialties throughout their careers. For Mary, this flexibility was not just appealing 鈥� it was essential. Life, she understood, is unpredictable, and she wanted a career that could adapt as she did. 

Transitioning from Baylor University, where she had graduated in May 2023, to the intense demands of the PA program was no small feat. Mary found the academic load challenging 鈥� 鈥渙ne of the hardest things I鈥檝e ever done,鈥� she said. The constant studying, the lack of breaks, and the pressure to absorb so much information in a short time were all daunting. Yet, it was also incredibly rewarding. Mary surprised herself with how much she could accomplish, and she felt increasingly confident as she moved closer to her clinical year. 

Her classmates were another source of strength. The diversity among them created a dynamic and supportive learning environment. Though there was a healthy sense of competition, it was balanced by a willingness to help one another succeed. The professors at 国产主播 also stood out as many of them were practicing PAs, which meant they brought current, real-world experience into the classroom. Their approachability and commitment to their students set them apart from faculty she had encountered elsewhere. 

As Mary looks ahead to her future as a PA, she is determined to be a provider who truly listens to her patients. Her own experiences with health issues in high school and college have taught her the value of a compassionate, attentive provider. She recalls how PAs were often the ones who took the time to listen to her concerns, sometimes thinking outside the box to solve complex issues. This has inspired her to do the same for her future patients. 

Mary is also clear about the unique aspects of the PA profession. She appreciates that PAs are trained in the medical route, similar to physicians, but with the significant difference of not being required to complete a residency or fellowship. This allows PAs the freedom to switch specialties, a feature that Mary finds both practical and empowering. 

As she reflects on her journey, Mary feels a deep sense of gratitude 鈥� not only for the support she has received but for the PA profession itself. She often hears people praise PAs for their ability to listen and provide excellent care, and she aspires to live up to that reputation. Her advice to others pursuing this path is simple: don鈥檛 compare yourself to others, work as hard as you can, and always remember why you chose this profession. 

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Long before he started the WCU Online Program to pursue his MSN and become an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Jerome A. had a story to tell. Born and raised in the Philippines, the 37-year-old rose to fame by competing in the seventh season of Pinoy Big Brother, the Philippine version of the popular Big Brother franchise. While on the show in 2016, Jerome decided to do something bold and come out as gay on national television.   

鈥淚 did that because I want young people in my country to see that there鈥檚 nothing wrong with being gay or lesbian or whoever you are,鈥� Jerome said. 鈥淎t least one young gay person watching you will have the courage to do the same thing because they know they can participate in the community and make a big change.鈥�   

Coming out, especially to the entire country, was not something Jerome took lightly. His parents didn鈥檛 even know he was gay, so the announcement came as a surprise to everyone around him.   

鈥淚t was tough. I kind of sensed that after this, people were going to be like, 鈥極h my god! We know you鈥檙e gay!鈥� I disregarded all of that information. I told myself, You鈥檙e not doing it because of those people. You鈥檙e not doing it because of the people around you. You鈥檙e doing it because you want to free yourself. It was a very memorable moment.鈥�   

After Jerome left the Big Brother house, he wasn鈥檛 sure how he鈥檇 be received by the public.   

鈥淲hen I was outside after the show, I kind of reviewed all the information that came out. It was everywhere! It was on the news, on social media, and on Google. It was crazy,鈥� he said. 鈥淏ut that day was the day that I saw myself. That鈥檚 the day I considered myself being fully happy.鈥�   

With this newfound happiness, Jerome found the ambition to pursue something he鈥檇 always wanted: his MSN.   

鈥淚 asked myself, after coming out as a gay person: What鈥檚 next? How are you going to contribute? Because we don鈥檛 live only for ourselves. If you have something to share, you have to talk. If you have something to contribute, you have to work… to pursue my life鈥檚 purpose. This was a good start.鈥�  

Since Jerome鈥檚 confidence and self-love now flow out abundantly, it鈥檚 easy for him to imagine how he might use his experience to help other young LGBTQ+ people in the healthcare space and beyond.   

鈥淚 pursued a nurse practitioner career because I want to specialize in STIs. I want to serve as an advocate for LGBTQ+ people and be someone who is there to provide information,鈥� he said. 鈥淪ometimes, people don鈥檛 open up about their sexual history. They don鈥檛 open up about their sexual encounters. Gay men tend to keep some information to themselves because they鈥檙e scared. I want to help the community.鈥�  

When asked about what advice he鈥檇 give to queer youth in his position, Jerome emphasized the importance of knowing when the time is right.  

鈥淒o not push if you feel like it鈥檚 not the time yet. You always need to have a support system. You always need to consider what will make you happy at the end of the day,鈥� he said.   

Ultimately, Jerome鈥檚 message to the world is one of inclusivity and love, something he carries into his practice and beyond: 鈥淲hether you are male, female, gay, lesbian 鈥� we are all the same.鈥�  

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Briana Y. always had a passion for the medical field, but it was a personal family crisis during her nursing journey that truly solidified her path. 

Having worked in a hospital environment for nearly six years, Briana was initially drawn to 国产主播 by both personal connections and practical considerations. 

鈥淚 had a couple of friends who had applied to West Coast and went through the BSN program, and they loved it,鈥� she explained. 

The flexible evening and weekend schedule at WCU was also a perfect fit for her, allowing her to balance full-time work as an administrative assistant at a surgery center with her studies.聽

Although her administrative role at the center has shifted to a work-from-home setup, her past hands-on experiences in various settings there fueled her desire to transition from clerical tasks to direct patient care. 

鈥淚 loved helping people and wanted to be by their side, holding their hand through the hard times and cheering them on during the good times,鈥� she said.聽

Unfortunately, after enrolling at WCU, Briana learned her grandfather was battling stage four lung cancer and her grandmother was facing stage three colon cancer. During their cancer treatment, Briana found herself deeply moved by the nurses who went “above and beyond” in their care. 

鈥淪eeing the nurses, how they treated (my grandfather) 鈥� really inspired me. It made me want to be the best person I could be for people, patients going through similar things, and their families as well,鈥� she said. 

Currently, Briana is immersed in her Med-Surg 2 course and said she finds the material both challenging and captivating. She鈥檚 exploring her interests across different specialties but is particularly drawn to the dynamic environment of Med-Surg or the Emergency Room. 

鈥淭he issue with me is that I find interest in everything,鈥� she said, highlighting her enthusiasm for diverse medical fields. 

Briana attributes her success to effective time management and the supportive resources at WCU, including the peer-assisted learning (PAL) tutoring program. As a PAL tutor herself, she enjoys helping her peers succeed, reinforcing her own knowledge in the process. 

“PAL tutors are amazing,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hey really want to help the students and help them as best as they possibly can.鈥� 

Looking ahead, Briana feels well-prepared for her future. Her journey at WCU has not only equipped her with essential medical knowledge but also nurtured her compassionate spirit, ensuring she鈥檚 ready to make a meaningful impact in the nursing profession. 

鈥淚 feel that once I finish this program, I will be able to take the NCLEX with no issue,鈥� she said.  

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Jason D.鈥檚 journey into nursing began with a personal tragedy that left an indelible mark on his life. 

鈥淚 remember that day was catastrophic for us as a family,鈥� he recalled. 

Nearly three years ago, Jason鈥檚 father passed away suddenly, leaving the family in a state of devastation. During this difficult time, the compassionate support from nurses profoundly changed him. 

“I can’t help but thank them for everything, and that really kind of told me, 鈥楬ey, I want to go into nursing,鈥� and I want to be like those nurses that really took care of me and took care of my father during that time,” he said. 

This experience solidified Jason’s decision to pursue a career in healthcare. In April 2022, he enrolled at 国产主播-Miami, drawn by its supportive and family-like environment. 

鈥淭he minute I stepped foot on campus, I fell in love. Everybody here treated me like family,鈥� he recounted. 

Throughout his time at WCU, Jason found that the university鈥檚 culture of collaboration and support was instrumental in his success. He especially appreciated the close relationships he developed with both his professors and peers. 

鈥淚t doesn鈥檛 become, 鈥楬ey, let me do this by myself,鈥欌�� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚, 鈥楲et鈥檚 all get through this together.鈥欌�� 

As the president of the Student Council (SAC), Jason embraced leadership roles, actively participated in community events and emphasized the importance of being engaged. For incoming students, Jason鈥檚 advice is to actively engage with the student body and use campus resources. 

鈥淭he school is here to help you out. They really have people dedicated to just hearing you out, helping you figure out problems, and giving you that extra support,鈥� he advised. 鈥淥nce you’re involved, you have the opportunity to talk to other students that might be going through the same kind of obstacles that you’re going through,鈥� he said. 

Currently serving as a nurse extern at Kendall Regional Hospital, Jason feels well-prepared for his future. He credited WCU鈥檚 challenging yet supportive program for his readiness, affirming, Jason鈥檚 ambition is to work in a trauma ICU, where he aims to provide exceptional care and support to patients and their families. 

鈥淚 want to be that person, that nurse that a family can lean on, a patient can lean on,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 feel prepared. I’m ready.鈥� 

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