WCU Alumni Spotlight: Farnaz Zahiri Araghi, BSN ’18

Farnaz was born and raised in Iran. Farnaz received her bachelor of arts in English language and literature in Iran. Inspired by her aunt, who worked as a registered nurse, Farnaz decided to immigrate to the United States to start her nursing journey in December 2012. She earned her associate degree in nursing from Pierce College in December 2015 and continued her education at ¹ú²úÖ÷²¥. During her nursing program, she volunteered at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and served as a tutor for Physical Assessment at WCU. In June 2018, Farnaz graduated magna cum laude with her bachelor of science in nursing degree at WCU.

In September 2018, Farnaz began a new grad program at Dignity Health Northridge Hospital Medical Center in the cardiovascular/stroke telemetry unit. She also served in the Unit-Based Council and Fall/Skin Committee and received her PCCN license.

In March 2020, Farnaz began working full-time in the cardiac observation unit at Ronald Regan UCLA Medical Center, and part-time in the telemetry unit at Kaiser Permanente, West Los Angeles. She is currently studying for two PCCN sub-certification exams: cardiac medicine and cardiac surgical.

Why did you choose WCU and what sets WCU apart from other schools?

Time was an important factor for me and that was the reason I chose WCU to start the nursing program. I did not want to waste time and wanted to start nursing right away.

What was your most memorable experience at WCU and what did you take away from your time at WCU?

The most memorable thing for me at WCU is how student-focused the program is. At WCU, I had great access to resources such as the instructors, tutors, simulation lab, skills lab, great clinical sites, and the Career Services team.

If you could give one word of advice to our WCU students, what would it be?

Never give up on your dreams. Life for a nursing student may seem super stressful but perseverance is the key. Keep on planning and listen to your instructors. Follow what they say step by step and a bright future is waiting for you.

What does #WCUproud mean to you?

WCU proud is what I am as a nurse. I proudly tell people I am a WCU alumni. You see very strong WCU alumni nurses at every hospital you go.

How are you involved with WCU currently?

The past few months have been very busy, considering I’m working 60 hours a week. But before I worked two jobs, I attended an alumni fair in which we were there for students and answer their questions. I love helping those who are going through what I went through. Maybe I can make the route a little easier for them.

Why do you think it’s important for our alumni to stay involved with their alma mater — whether is it by attending an alumni event, volunteering their time, or giving to the alumni scholarship fund?

I believe volunteering your time is always important as a member of any society. Together we thrive and no one can succeed alone.

Would you like to share a positive message with current nursing students?

The struggle is real but worthwhile. Being a nurse is sacred and blessings don’t come easy. You are at the right place and you’ll love it. 


WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.