Alumni Spotlight Archives | ��

WCU PharmD Graduate Overcame Barriers, Looks Ahead to Community Care��

�� — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000

When Varduhi O. walked across the stage at the Honda Center to receive her doctor of pharmacy degree from ��, the moment marked far more than academic achievement. It was the culmination of years of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination.��

A New Life and a New Language

Varduhi moved to the United States from Armenia at the age of 23 — without knowing a word of English.

“It’s a really big deal for me and for my family,” she said.

As a first-generation immigrant and now the first in her family to earn a doctoral degree, Varduhi’s success is a powerful example of what’s possible through hard work and grit.

Balancing Pharmacy School and Motherhood

Earning a PharmD is demanding for anyone — but Varduhi did it while raising two young daughters. For her, walking the graduation stage wasn’t just a personal milestone — it was a message to her children.

“I want them to see how hard work and commitment will help you and others live in a better way,” she said.

Overcoming Doubt with Support

Varduhi admitted there were moments of self-doubt, especially after giving birth during her second year of pharmacy school.

“I failed my first exam,” she said. “But Dr. Kasan motivated me and reminded me of my strengths. I’m so glad that I never gave up.”

Her story is a reminder of how important mentorship and encouragement are in shaping student success.

Finding Purpose in Community Pharmacy

Today, Varduhi works at a major retail pharmacy, where she finds meaning in daily patient interactions. Though she trained in both hospital and retail settings, she found her passion aligned more with community pharmacy.

“We are very accessible for patients,” she explained. “Even over the phone, they can call us and ask for advice.”

Looking Ahead: Blending Pharmacy with Lifestyle Coaching

Varduhi’s long-term vision is to open a clinic-style pharmacy — one that merges traditional pharmaceutical services with wellness and lifestyle coaching.

“I want to help people live better, healthier lives, not just through medicine, but through education and support.”

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WCU BSHA Grad Balanced Family, Work, and School — And Sets Her Sights on Pharmacy School��

�� — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:54:10 +0000

For Hilda S., earning her bachelor of science in health administration (BSHA) from �� wasn’t just a steppingstone, it was a major achievement in a life defined by determination and care for others.��

“I’ve been a pharmacy tech for about 10 years now,” she said. “I love what I do. I work in a clinic, an oncology center… just trying to provide better patient care if I can in the middle of me trying to get my pharmacy degree.”

Hilda chose WCU for its flexibility, a key factor as she balanced two jobs, parenting, and full-time school.

“For people who have families, who have busy schedules, it’s more convenient,” she said. “You can do it at your pace, and you don’t have to worry about, ‘I have to be in class at this time.’ I enjoyed it.”

Her long-term plan is to enter PharmD school, ideally, at ��.

“That’s the goal,” she said. “It was more initially just to kind of get my degree and then see where I can go from there. But I love pharmacy, and I feel like I can’t leave it.”

Even with years of healthcare experience, the program still brought challenges mostly outside the classroom.

“It was more like my home life,” she said. “Trying to balance my kids, my schoolwork. I was working two jobs, going to school full-time. But the school being online it made it a lot easier.”

Despite never having stepped on a WCU campus, support from the faculty made a lasting impression on Hilda.

“I had a lot of instructors, even though I had never met them in person, they were there when I needed something,” she said. “When I would get overwhelmed and stressed, they were there to ease that stress.”

Her advice to future students is direct.

“Try to do it as early as you can,” she said. “And just find something that you love — because if you don’t love it, then you’re not going to do well in it.”

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‘Let’s Go Help People:’ How a WCU Nurse Saved a Life at Astroworld��

�� — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:00:23 +0000

When Sophia S. graduated in 2021, she was ready to begin her nursing career, but less than a month getting her RN license, her training would be put to the test in a way no one could have predicted.

In November 2021, Sophia and her best friend attended the Astroworld music festival in Houston. When a sudden crowd surge turned the event into one of the deadliest concert tragedies in recent history, Sophia’s instincts as a new nurse took over.

“I was there as a fan,” she recalled, “but once I realized what was happening, my brain kind of just went from, ‘OK, I’m good — now let’s go help people.’ I will always put other people’s needs in front of me. It’s just who I am.”

Her courage and quick action that night would later be featured in a released this summer, bringing her story to millions.

Prepared Before She Knew It

But the lessons she learned at ��-Los Angeles were fresh in her mind. Particularly, the lessons from the simulation labs, where students practice making critical decisions under pressure. “The simulation labs really helped me,” she said. “They put you into scenarios where you don’t know what you’re walking into. That prepared me to stay calm and act, even outside the hospital setting.”

When the surge began, Sophia and her friend were pulled apart. Alone but surrounded by panic, she relied on her training.

“I started triaging people in my head,” she said. “You have to decide who needs help first, and who might still have a chance. That’s exactly what we were taught to do.”

One man in particular showed faint signs of life. Sophia focused her efforts on him, performing CPR until medical teams arrived. “That was always a fear in my head, that I was also going to lose this guy,” she said. “But I didn’t. He’s alive, he’s great.”

A Calling That Started Young

Sophia’s instinct to serve others has always been a part of her. “I think I was just born with it,” she said. “Even when I was 8 or 9 years old, I wanted to be a nurse. Helping people is innate for me.”

Choosing WCU was a natural step toward that dream. “I chose �� because of the accelerated BSN program, the supportive faculty, and the commitment to student success. I wanted to be a nurse and start my career as fast as possible. So, what better way than to come to West Coast.”

Finding Her Place in Nursing

After the Astroworld tragedy, Sophia’s perspective on her career shifted. “That night changed me,” she said. “I don’t think I could ever do hospital nursing after what I went through. But I’m still a nurse.”

Instead, she found her calling in public health. “Serving the community brings me happiness,” she explained. “Patients see someone who speaks their language, looks like them, and understands them. That gives them trust. They feel more comfortable around me. Knowing that I’m able to help someone… it brings a lot of inspiration and a lot of hope, and that makes me really happy.”

Today, Sophia continues to serve with compassion, skill, and resilience, making a difference outside of the traditional bedside setting.

Lessons for Future Nurses

Looking back, Sophia reflects on her experience at WCU with gratitude, both for the training that prepared her and for the resilience she discovered in herself. “Although it gets hard, just keep going,” she said to current students. “Your future you will thank you.”

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“Exactly Where I’m Supposed to Be:” BSN Graduate Reflects on Her Journey Through Nursing School at WCU-Miami��

�� — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:00:00 +0000

After years of determination, late nights, and relentless studying, Jordyn S. looked back on her nursing school journey, with pride, perspective, and an unshakable belief that she made the right choice — both in her career path and her school.

“The experience here in Miami has been an absolute roller coaster,” Jordyn said, reflecting on the intensity of nursing school. “By far, nursing school has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life, which is expected.”

Despite the challenges, she spoke highly of WCU and how the program shaped her professionally and personally. With clinical training, simulation labs, and academic support, she feels more than prepared to take on the next phase of her nursing career.

“The reason I’m here is because of that,” she stated. “Knowing that I’m going to get to pursue a career doing something that I’m extremely passionate about — that is the thing that reminds me it’s worth it.”

Throughout the ups and downs, the WCU community played a significant role in keeping her grounded. She described moments of doubt and stress but also emphasized the importance of trusting the journey.

“There’s a reason that I woke up one morning and said, ‘I’m going to pack my car up today and move to Miami.’ So I’m glad I did it,” she said. The decision to relocate wasn’t easy, but it was rooted in a desire for change, growth, and opportunity. Miami became more than a backdrop — it became a turning point.

“Moving here meant starting from scratch,” she said. “But WCU made it feel like I belonged. I felt supported, seen, and pushed to become the best version of myself.”

She also emphasized the flexibility and potential a nursing degree provides, especially when paired with the portability of RN licensure. “That’s the great thing about being a nurse — your RN license, you can take it with you anywhere you go. It’s not limited to the state you’re in,” she said. “If you decide to move, you still have a career that can follow you, and I think that is the most amazing part about it.”

It wasn’t just about academics for Jordyn — it was also about mindset. Comparing her timeline with friends who had already launched their careers or started families, she admitted to moments of self — comparison. But she consistently reminded herself of one key truth.

“Where I’m supposed to be is right here right now,” she said. “I have to remind myself that a lot, because that’s the truth.”

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From Badge to Bedside: How WCU-Miami Graduate Found His Calling in Pediatric Nursing��

�� — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 16:00:00 +0000

After years in law enforcement, Joseph C. made a life-altering decision: to trade his police badge for a stethoscope. Now a proud graduate of ��-Miami and a pediatric oncology nurse at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Joseph’s path to nursing was one shaped by family, purpose, and a relentless drive to help others — especially children.

“All of my family is in nursing,” Joseph stated. “My sister-in-laws, my niece… they actually loved the fact that I was going into it. Kept it in the family.”

While his family supported his career pivot, Joseph’s real inspiration stemmed from a deep personal passion for pediatrics. Though initially unsure if he’d end up in pediatric care, fate steered him back to his original calling. “I’m currently working on hematology oncology for pediatrics,” he said. “Just something about being able to see a child that’s in desperate need… to still be as happy as they are — it’s my drive.”

As a single father, Joseph’s journey took on even greater meaning. “I have a 4-year-old boy. That’s my best friend in the world,” he said. “I did everything that I did just for him. Sacrifices were hard… but it was all worth it.”

For Joseph, nursing is more than just a profession — it’s a means of building a stable life for his son. “It gives us a home, a routine, and a future,” he explained. “I wanted him to see his dad do something that matters. Something that gives back.”

The path wasn’t easy. Joseph openly admitted to struggling with imposter syndrome and doubts throughout nursing school. “Every day,” he recalled. “But something that I learned… the professors really do prepare you. On your low days, they encourage you. On your high days, they challenge you.”

��’s accelerated program and personal attention played a pivotal role in his success. “You’re getting everything you pay for,” he said. “Small class sizes, personal relationships with professors — they all know you by name. That was honestly my favorite part.”

Now, just weeks into his role at his dream hospital, Joseph has no doubts he’s right where he belongs. “It’s cool being part of it — to know that you’re kind of like that glimmer of hope for them,” he said. “Even if it’s bad news, I know that for those 12 hours, I can make that moment better.”

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WCU-Miami BSN Graduate’s Passion Took Her From Lab Coat to Scrubs��

�� — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Juleen F. didn’t begin her career in nursing. In fact, she spent a dozen years behind the scenes in healthcare, working as a medical laboratory technician. But it was during one unexpected experience in the field that her path shifted.

“It wasn’t until I started doing bone marrow biopsies at Jackson where I connected more with the patients that I became more in touch with my human side,” Juleen said. “Then I realized, hey, I can do this. I can connect with people.”

With that spark, Juleen enrolled at ��-Miami and began pursuing her nursing degree, a journey she completed in the summer of 2024.

“When I came to West Coast, it was already settled that I wanted to become a nurse,” she said. “What I appreciated was that the anatomy and physiology I took here was specific for nursing. It helped a lot. I’m a new ICU nurse now — all my cranial nerves, I learned them in depth here.”

The nursing-focused curriculum, she said, stood out from her past academic experience. From anatomy to math and even English classes, everything was structured to support future nurses.

“All the classes were structured for nurses,” she said. “The math was based on nursing skills, med math, calculations. The English classes — all the papers were on nursing topics. Even the anatomy and physiology included case studies to help us think critically.”

But beyond the academics, it was the campus culture and community that made the biggest difference.

“What separated it from going to another university was that everybody on campus was a nurse,” she said. “We all looked to each other for support and guidance. That was a big deal for me.”

Balancing school, family, and a full-time job was no easy task. Juleen, a mother of three, said discipline and time management were key to her success.

“If you really want something, you’ll do it,” she said. “You still have to juggle that house life, school life, and work life. But it can be done.”

Despite the challenges, Juleen never wavered in her commitment.

“I was passionate about it,” she said. “Got up every morning, came to classes, didn’t miss a clinical. I wasn’t a magician, but I was juggling a lot.”

Looking back, Juleen called her experience at �� “awesome.”

“Every school has its hiccups, and your experience is what you make it to be,” she said. “I took advantage of every opportunity. I took advantage of my nursing school — nursing school didn’t take advantage of me.”

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Championing Change: How One WCU Alumna is Breaking Barriers in Women’s Health

�� — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

From a young age, Meg B. felt a strong calling to pursue a career in healthcare. Her father, a doctor, ran his practice from the basement of their home, while her mother worked as a nurse and midwife at the local hospital.

“In the summers, my sister and I would help organize patient charts and restock the pharmacy,” she recalled.

Having been surrounded by medicine her entire life, Meg felt inspired to embark on her own journey, in the field.

Meg earned her bachelor of science in nursing and master of science in nursing, eventually completing a post-master’s family nurse practitioner certificate from �� in 2021. At the time, she was working full-time and needed a program that offered the flexibility of being online.

“I had an introductory meeting at West Coast and immediately appreciated how supportive and accessible the faculty and staff were,” she shared.

Entrepreneurship wasn’t something Meg had planned, but it found her in the wake of a natural disaster. In 2021, a hurricane flooded her neighborhood — though her home was spared this time. Having experienced a similar situation just two years earlier, Meg understood the impact firsthand. She felt compelled to support those affected, just as others had supported her during her own time of need. Meg began assembling hygiene kits with a specific focus on feminine products, recognizing that these essential items are often overlooked.

“The professors at West Coast really emphasized the value of community involvement and understanding the key challenges local communities were facing,” she shared. “What started as simply helping those in need eventually grew into partnerships with school nurses to provide care bags for students — and that’s how PeriodPower Pantry was born.”

In 2023, PeriodPower Pantry partnered with the Texas Menstrual Equity Coalition to advocate for the end of the Tampon Tax in Texas, working alongside state legislators and Governor Abbott. “Access to basic necessities shouldn’t be considered a luxury,” Meg emphasized.

Meg was recently awarded the Distinguished Alumni award at the 2025 WCU Alumni Awards, an honor that celebrates alumni who have demonstrated exceptional career accomplishments and meaningful contributions to their community or the university.

“Being recognized among 67,000 alumni is truly an honor,” she said. “What stands out to me most are the small moments along the way — the patients, the advocacy, the journey.”

The has grown to include First Period Kits — designed for first-time menstruators — and educational resources like a period tracker.

“I envision building strong international partnerships with organizations already championing similar causes and advancing female empowerment,” she shared.

Meg’s passion for advocacy and community impact continues to drive her mission forward. Through education, empowerment, and partnership, she’s helping to break down barriers and create lasting change. Her journey is a powerful reminder that even small acts of service can lead to a global movement.

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From Property Management to Postpartum: How WCU-Miami BSN Grad Found Her Perfect Job in Mother-Baby Nursing��

�� — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Maria T. always knew she wanted to work in healthcare, but it wasn’t until later in life that she found the courage to pursue her dream. A former property manager with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Maria made the leap into nursing with determination — and hasn’t looked back since.

Her passion for women’s health runs deep. Surrounded by strong women in her own family, Maria was driven by a desire to be an advocate, especially for women of color who often feel unheard in medical settings.

“I come from a big line of women. I’m the middle one of three sisters, I have two nieces, and I know there’s a lot of disparities when a healthcare provider doesn’t listen to you as a woman,” she said.

That personal motivation became professional purpose when she joined Memorial Healthcare System as a mother-baby nurse. In this postpartum specialty, Maria supports both newborns and mothers in the first critical days after delivery — a setting where joy can quickly turn into an emergency.

“Some things can happen in that setting that force you to apply those critical thinking skills and act quick on your feet,” she said.

Maria’s journey to her ideal job wasn’t without its challenges. While pursuing her BSN at ��-Miami, she balanced full-time work and a long commute. But support from faculty and her own fierce determination helped her push through.

“One of my professors told me, ‘How you apply now is how you’re going to be out in the field, so I need you to apply your best and take it even a step forward,’” she said.

Her resilience was especially tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. But even then, Maria stayed focused — logging in for virtual classes and staying connected through skills labs and simulations.

“If you’re truly passionate about caring for others… then don’t stop, don’t quit,” she said.

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Inside the BSN Experience: Alumni Reflects on Clinicals, Faculty Support, and Life at ��

�� — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

For Ryan P., earning his bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree at ��-Los Angeles was more than just an academic journey — it was an experience filled with learning, growth, and meaningful connections.��

Graduating as valedictorian of his class, Ryan credits much of his success to the hands-on learning opportunities and the supportive faculty that guided him through one of the most challenging and rewarding programs in healthcare education.

Jumping Into BSN Clinicals��

From Day One, Ryan knew nursing school wasn’t going to be easy. But the chance to apply what he learned in the classroom to real-life healthcare settings made all the difference.

“I had a lot of great clinical sites and I came across a lot of great clinical instructors and nurses at the facilities,” Ryan said. “They put us in great spots, so I had opportunities to get my hands in there and be thrown into the fire.”

These hands-on experiences helped Ryan grow his confidence, sharpen his skills, and understand what it really means to care for patients in high-pressure environments—key preparation for his current role as an ER nurse.

A Strong Faculty Support System

One of the biggest highlights of Ryan’s time in the BSN program at �� was the strong support system he found in his instructors.

“They were always super, super helpful — super warm,” Ryan recalled. “You could always call them day or night or send them emails or texts.”

Even after the term ended, many instructors remained accessible to him, eager to answer questions or provide guidance. Ryan emphasized how meaningful those relationships were, not just for his academic journey but for his overall confidence as a nursing professional.

“Even if you ran across a problem later, you could text them, like, ‘Hey Professor so-and-so, I have this issue or didn’t understand this — can we talk about it?’ And they’d find five minutes for you.”

Facing Challenges and Growing Through Them

Like many BSN students, Ryan had his fair share of difficult days. One in particular stood out.

“It was my first pharmacology exam—that was one of the rough days,” he admitted. “But you rely on those around you. Talk to your instructors, talk to your friends, and get back at it the next time. You just keep pushing through. You can’t give up.”

Ryan’s story is a reminder that perseverance and support go hand-in-hand—and that no one gets through nursing school alone.

Advice from a Valedictorian: “Be Ready to Work, But You’re Not Alone”

When asked what advice he’d give to students beginning the BSN program, Ryan kept it real.

“I knew it was going to be pretty tough going into it, and I think I was ready for that aspect of it,” he said. “There were definitely some challenging days along the way… but to be expected. Everybody hears about how tough nursing is and getting through the school portion of it.”

Ryan recommends that incoming students lean into the resources WCU provides and embrace the team environment that nursing naturally demands.

“Make friends at school — don’t think you’re going to do it by yourself. Make friends with your peers, your colleagues, your instructors. That team environment? That’s what nursing is all about.”

Ready to Start Your BSN Journey at ��?

With hands-on clinical training, supportive faculty, and a community that believes in your success, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at �� is built to help you thrive — both in school and beyond.

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�� Journey Takes Alum From Military Medic to Master’s Nurse��

�� — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 16:00:28 +0000

When Jimmy N. decided to become a nurse, he wasn’t just choosing a profession — he was following a calling that began with his service as a military medic. From the battlefield to the bedside, Jimmy’s journey reflects the grit, growth, and purpose that drives many healthcare professionals. As a proud alumnus of both the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs at ��, Jimmy shared his personal experiences, advice for aspiring nurses, and how WCU’s support systems made all the difference.

Why Nursing? A Calling Rooted in Service

For Jimmy, healthcare wasn’t a career option — it was the only path that made sense.

“Healthcare is the only thing I know… After high school I went to the military, was a medic, then an EMT, and then I decided to become a nurse,” he said.

That same sense of service and desire to help others made nursing the natural next step. Jimmy found fulfillment in making a difference in people’s lives, something he calls “the best decision I’ve made.”

“The best thing about being a nurse is just being able to help people,” he said.

Advice to the Next Generation of Nurses

Jimmy knows firsthand how challenging nursing school can be. His message to future nurses? Start early and trust yourself.

“I would recommend doing it sooner rather than later… that way you expand yourself more,” he said. “I’ll tell myself I’ll be okay. Just take it easier.”

He also encouraged students to care for their mental health and take the long view when things get tough. Like many nursing students, Jimmy had moments of doubt, especially during his OB-GYN coursework.

“Going through OB… My girlfriend at the time — my wife now — sat down, helped me out and we talked through it,” Jimmy said.

A Flexible, Supportive Online Learning Experience

One of the key advantages Jimmy highlights is the flexibility of WCU’s online MSN program, which allowed him to advance his education without sacrificing his work-life balance.

“They make the program so easy to get in and get things done,” he said.

Online courses enabled him to work as a critical care nurse and instructor while progressing toward his advanced degree. Combined with responsive faculty and structured virtual support, the online experience gave him confidence and continuity.

Whether studying between shifts or attending class from home, Jimmy made the most of WCU’s online environment and encourages other nurses to do the same.

Nursing with Purpose — and Perspective

Today, Jimmy works as a critical care transport nurse and teaches EMT courses, applying lessons from his time at �� daily.��

Are You Ready to Begin Your Nursing Journey — Online or On Campus?

Whether you’re an EMT looking to advance your career like Jimmy, or just starting your nursing journey, �� offers the flexibility, resources, and support to help you succeed — at any stage of life.

Learn more about our online RN-to-BSN and MSN programs, and join a network of passionate, purpose-driven nurses shaping the future of healthcare.

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Alumni Spotlight Archives | ��������