BSN Archives | ��

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 Nursing to Public Health: How One Student Found Her True Calling in Medicine

�� — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:00:09 +0000

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 ��’s 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.

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

Maryam’s time at WCU didn’t just prepare her for the technical side of medicine – 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, “When 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.”

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

“I fell in love with public health during my term at West Coast,” she said. “I 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.”

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.

“Public health is about more than just treating individuals – it’s about addressing the root causes of disease and making a lasting impact on entire populations.”

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.

“There’s a huge need for healthcare in underserved areas, and I want to help bridge that gap.”

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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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Graduates Celebrate 2024 �� Commencement at Plano Events Center

�� — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Graduates from ��’s 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 — and that’s what really sold him on the profession.

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

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.

“I was making good money in California, but I didn’t 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.

“I 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.”

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From California to Texas: BSN Graduate Reflects on Her Path to Nursing at ��

�� — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 15:00:00 +0000

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.

“I originally heard about �� 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 ��’s 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’s 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’s a wonderful place to live — not in the summer, though!”

Esther reflected on the strong relationships she built at ��.

“My relationship with my classmates was amazing; I found my forever family in nursing school,” she said. “Relationships 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.”

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How PAL Tutoring at �� Helps Nursing Students Succeed

�� — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:00:00 +0000

At ��, the path to a successful nursing career can be challenging, but one key program that makes a difference is Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) tutoring. This peer-to-peer tutoring service provides a powerful support system for nursing students, helping them deepen their understanding of complex subjects while reinforcing essential skills. This article will explore how PAL tutoring works, its benefits, and why it’s a game-changer for tutors and students.

What is PAL tutoring at ��?

PAL tutoring at WCU is a peer-led academic support program where students who excelled in earlier courses help their classmates succeed in those same subjects. These PAL tutors are carefully selected based on their strong academic performance and their ability to communicate difficult concepts in a way that resonates with fellow students.

For nursing student Camila G., a PAL tutor at WCU-Miami, the role goes beyond teaching concepts. “As a PAL tutor, I help guide students through challenging material by breaking it down into understandable pieces. It creates a comfortable environment for students to ask questions they might not feel confident asking in class,” she said.

Benefits of PAL Tutoring for Nursing Students

1. Strengthens Nursing Foundations

Nursing school builds on fundamental concepts that students must carry with them throughout their careers. PAL Tutoring reinforces those basics, helping students grasp course material more effectively. Tutors guide students through challenging coursework and help themselves retain critical information by teaching it.

“Nursing is all about having a solid foundation,” Camila explained. “Just because you finish a class doesn’t mean the material won’t come back. That’s why tutoring is so important — it helps solidify the knowledge you’ll need for the NCLEX and beyond.”

2. Boosts Confidence and Builds a Sense of Community

One of the main reasons students turn to PAL tutoring is the comfortable, judgment-free environment. Peer tutors help remove the intimidation of the classroom, allowing students to freely ask questions and explore difficult concepts.

“It’s rewarding when a student finally understands something that’s been a challenge,” said Jemima O., a PAL tutor at WCU-Texas. “I love knowing that I’ve helped them feel more confident, just like previous tutors helped me.”

This environment also fosters relationships beyond the classroom, with students forming study groups and building lasting friendships that support their academic journey.

3. Provides Personalized Learning Support

Every student learns differently, and PAL Tutoring recognizes this by offering flexible, personalized tutoring sessions. Whether you prefer visual aids, hands-on activities, or auditory explanations, PAL tutors tailor their approach to fit your learning style.

“My tutoring style includes both visual and auditory techniques,” Camila shared. “Some students learn best by listening, while others need to see things written down. I make sure to accommodate both by writing things out and explaining them verbally during each session.”

4. Professional Development for Tutors

Becoming a PAL tutor doesn’t just benefit the students receiving help — it’s also a valuable opportunity for tutors to develop leadership, communication, and teaching skills. These experiences look great on resumes and can lead to letters of recommendation from faculty members.

“I didn’t think about it at first, but being a PAL tutor has really helped me grow as a future nurse,” Jemima said. “It’s also a great way to give back to the WCU community that supported me.”

Why PAL Tutoring is Key to Nursing School Success

Succeeding in nursing school requires more than just memorization. You need to understand the material, apply it in real-life clinical settings, and develop the confidence to navigate the complexities of patient care. PAL tutoring at WCU provides nursing students with the tools they need to achieve these goals.

For students who may feel overwhelmed, PAL tutoring is a lifeline. By offering one-on-one tutoring sessions, group sessions, and peer support, the program ensures that no student has to navigate the difficult path of nursing school alone.

“The best part about PAL Tutoring is the relationships you build,” Camila said. “I always make sure my students know they can reach out to me whenever they need help, even after our tutoring sessions.”

How to Get Involved with PAL Tutoring at ��

If you’re a WCU student looking to strengthen your academic performance or considering becoming a PAL tutor, contact the Student Affairs office to learn more. Whether you need help understanding coursework or want to mentor others, PAL tutoring is an excellent resource for thriving in nursing school.

Don’t let nursing school overwhelm you. Take advantage of the PAL Tutoring program at �� and unlock your full potential with the help of your peers. The support you need is just a session away. PAL is offered at all our �� locations.

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Single Mom and Cancer Survivor Finds New Purpose in Nursing at WCU-Texas

�� — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 15:00:01 +0000

Dina P., a BSN student at ��-Texas, represents the grit and determination that drives so many aspiring nurses. From losing her job during the pandemic to receiving a breast cancer diagnosis the same week she moved to Dallas, Dina’s path to nursing was shaped by her personal experiences and a deep desire to help others in the medical field.

“My infusion nurse was a young breast cancer patient too. After her treatments, she went to nursing school,” Dina said. “It stuck with me.”

This pivotal moment during a challenging time led Dina to commit to nursing, where she could offer the same level of care and compassion that made such a difference to her.

Dina’s decision to enroll at ��-Texas came unexpectedly. She initially scheduled tours at three nursing schools but decided to visit WCU’s Richardson campus. Despite not receiving an official tour, the experience left a lasting impression.

“I didn’t even schedule a tour with admissions, but I fell in love with the campus. I didn’t go to see the other schools. I knew this was where I needed to be,” Dina shared.

Now thriving in her nursing program, Dina reflects on her experience transitioning back into student life after a 20-year break. �� provides numerous resources that have supported her, allowing her to excel despite the challenges of an accelerated program.

“I was worried about the accelerated program, but I would do it 1,000 times over again,” Dina said.

Looking ahead, her goal is clear — working in oncology, specifically with women.

“I had a patient in my Med-Surg rotation with breast cancer. Just being able to tell her, ‘I know what you’re going through,’ made all the difference. I want to focus on women’s oncology because I can relate to them in a way that not everyone can,” she said.

Dina’s advice to future students? Focus on time management and perseverance.

“Don’t think that you don’t need to study. You do need to study… manage your time… keep them separated. The time for studying is your time for studying, and your time for family is your time for family,” she said. “And don’t let setbacks stop you. There are so many resources available. I came here as a single mom, bald from chemo, with no job. If I can do it, anyone can.”

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WCU-Texas BSN Graduate Didn‘t Let Early Stumble Knock Her Off Path of Becoming Nurse

�� — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Recent ��-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 ��’s hands-on approach and robust support system, she decided to give nursing school another shot.

“I’m so excited,” Jemima shared. “It’s been a long time coming… a lot of bumps, but it’s all worth it.”

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.

“She passed from an asthma attack in Nigeria, and my mom always said she didn’t feel supported,” 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,” 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 ��, 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.

“It 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.

“I’ve been taught the skills and critical thinking… I think I’m ready,” she said.

Her advice to future students is simple but powerful: “Use your resources… be vocal about what you’re dealing with… keep going.”

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