WCU-Texas Archives | ��

Inspired by Family, �� MSLP Student Is Driven to Make a Difference

�� — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:00:13 +0000

For Megha C., the path to becoming a speech-language pathologist began when she was just 10 years old. Growing up in a close-knit joint family, Megha witnessed her youngest cousin’s transformation through speech therapy.

“He was almost 4 and not speaking. Now, at 13, he’s completely verbal,” she recalled with pride. “Seeing that change inspired me to dedicate my life to this field.”

Speech-language pathology is a dynamic field that extends far beyond helping people speak.

“We work with everyone — from infants in the NICU to senior citizens.” The field encompasses various specialties, including voice disorders, stuttering, feeding and swallowing, and cognitive-communication issues in stroke patients. It even delves into literacy disorders and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices for those who are nonverbal. “It’s such a vast and rewarding field,” Megha said. “You’re always learning, and there’s never a dull moment.”

Megha’s passion for helping others took root early. In middle school, she co-founded Lywood Awareness Buddies (LAB), an organization that bridged the gap between general and special education students. From presenting at Board of Education meetings to organizing community symposiums, Megha demonstrated her commitment to fostering inclusion and understanding. Today, LAB’s legacy continues, influencing younger generations to embrace diversity and empathy.

Fast forward to her time at ��, Megha chose to relocate from New Jersey to Dallas to make the most of her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP) program.

“Even though the program is online, I wanted the experience of a new city and the opportunity to connect with my peers and professors in person,” she explained. The �� Texas campus and supportive environment have made her feel at home, offering study spaces and a welcoming community.

As an online student, Megha remains deeply engaged. She serves as the president of WCU’s chapter of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) and was recently elected to its national Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Advocacy (IDEA) work group. Her leadership roles allow her to advocate for a more inclusive environment, a cause close to her heart as a South Asian daughter of immigrants.

The program’s flipped classroom model and on-site immersives have broadened Megha’s horizons.

“I came in set on working with children with autism, but now I’m exploring stuttering and neuro disorders,” she shared. These experiences, coupled with the support of faculty and Program Dean, have bolstered her confidence. “Our professors genuinely care about us as individuals, not just as students.”

For now, Megha remains focused on her clinical placements, eagerly anticipating the day she can help others find their voice, just as her cousin once did.

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WCU-Texas Graduate Ready to Take Next Step After Completing Master of Physician Assistant Program

�� — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:00:33 +0000

After graduating from the rigorous two-year Master of Physician Assistant program at ��-Texas, Anthony I. walked across the stage on commencement day with a well-earned sense of accomplishment.

Now, he is setting his sights on the next step: Passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).

“Right now, my main focus is on passing the PANCE,” he said. “But I’ve been looking at the job market, too. I’m just excited to put all the skills and knowledge I’ve gained into action.”

Anthony, who earned his undergraduate degree in 2020 from Texas Tech, described his excitement about WCU’s program and his reasons for pursuing the PA route.

“I always knew I wanted to be in medicine, either as a doctor or a PA,” he said. “But my personality is that I get bored easily, so I wanted flexibility. As a PA, you can switch specialties whenever you desire — that really sold me on the profession.”

Reflecting on his time at WCU-Texas, Anthony emphasized the value of the relationships built during the demanding program.

“Besides gaining the clinical skills to care for patients, the best part was the bonds you create,” he shared. “You lean on your classmates, family, and support systems, especially during those ups and downs. The victory today is just as big for them as it is for me.”

The journey was not without its challenges. For Anthony, the hardest part was balancing work, studies, and life during clinical rotations.

“You go to work, come home, sleep, and repeat the cycle,” he explained. “At the same time, you’re constantly studying for exams every few weeks. It’s about pushing through burnout and remembering the end goal.”

Anthony expressed gratitude for WCU-Texas, noting how the program exceeded his expectations.

“At first, I was hesitant because it’s a newer program, but I never felt like just a number here. The faculty and staff were proactive and supportive, always meeting us halfway to find solutions,” he said.

Looking ahead to 2025, Anthony is eager to begin his career in healthcare and make a difference in patients’ lives.

“That’s why we go through all of this,” he said. “I’m ready to put it all to use.”

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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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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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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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WCU-Texas MPA Teams Shine at TAPA Student Challenge Bowl, Building on National Success

�� — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000

��-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 — 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.��

Professor Akisha Dave, who played a key role in preparing both the AAPA and TAPA teams, praised the students’ 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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Discovery of Physician Assistant Role Led WCU-Texas Student Back to Healthcare Path

�� — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Mary D.’s path to the medical field began long before she ever stepped foot on ��’s 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’t until she discovered that her family medicine provider — someone she had trusted for most of her life — 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 — 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 — “one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” 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 �� 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 — 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’t compare yourself to others, work as hard as you can, and always remember why you chose this profession.

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Celebrating Pride Year-Round: Alex, a WCU-Texas Professor, Embraces Identity and Inspires Students

�� — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Alex, a General Education assistant professor at ��-Texas teaching online courses, is proud of their identity and the opportunity to celebrate not only during Pride Month, but throughout the year.

“When I think of what it means to be proud, for me, it’s being a good person, a kind person, and that I can be a good representative of this amazing community,” said Alex. “Supporting my students, regardless of how they identify, is so important. I want to continue learning more and incorporate that into my teaching as well as my own personal journey.”

When Alex first found the terms they identified with, it was “a lightbulb going off to self-acceptance and pride.” Alex feels lucky that they have been open to sharing their identity for most of their adulthood, allowing that visibility to shine amongst and inspire students.

Many of Alex’s students have confided in them or felt comfortable to be their true selves in class. As Alex notes, this is why visibility is so important.

Growing up in the 1980s and 1990s, Alex didn’t have school groups or clubs that welcomed them and the way they identified. In fact, they dropped out of school due in part to a feeling of isolation.

“I’ve been discriminated against, insulted, and told to keep my identity quiet, even in workplaces that were supposedly progressive,” Alex said. “I was told I was wrong, evil, and should be institutionalized.”

Alex appreciates the open and accepting environment of WCU and the ability for everyone to be themselves.

“It’s important for everyone to show respect and understanding in both our work environment and the classroom,” Alex said. “Everyone, regardless of how they identify, should love themself and be kind to themself as well as others.”

Alex also notes that LGBTQIA+ students and colleagues value the ability to be seen and heard, and for their identity to be visible when they feel safe and comfortable sharing that. Access to information on various identities can be a helpful tool for those seeking to understand this, and Alex points to the GLAAD Media Reference Guide as a great resource to learn material on a multitude of LGBTQIA+ topics.

“Words must be backed up by policy and remembrance, not just for Pride Month, but all year long so everyone feels supported,” Alex said. “It also helps to remind others of the role models in all identities to show that we are just people, mostly good people, and many religious faiths do support LGBTQIA+ persons.”

When asked about LGBTQIA+ role models, Alex has looked up to several, including Harvey Milk, Alan Turing, Silvia Rivera, Bayard Rustin, Audre Lorde, Suzy Eddie Izzard, and Del LaGrace Volcano.

“LGBTQIA+ individuals want to live their lives as everyone does,” Alex said. “Hating others because of their identity has no positive side; it just hurts others, particularly youth. I also think allies are extremely important, as allies can cause others to change their minds for the better.”

Alex plans to celebrate Pride Month working on some creative ventures, including writing fiction genre stories, creating art, and visiting LGBTQIA+ artwork and cultural events. As they reflect further on what Pride Month means, Alex gives some sound advice for those struggling with their identity.

“Understanding yourself takes time, as it is a personal journey to be part of self-actualization,” Alex said. “Read about identities, reflect on them, and give yourself space. What you understand now may grow and change, which is simply human. There is no ‘one’ way to properly be a particular identity, and no one should gatekeep how to be LGBTQIA+—just be a good person.”

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WCU-Texas MPA Team Excels at AAPA National Medical Challenge Bowl

�� — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 14:00:00 +0000

The ��-Texas MPA student team recently achieved remarkable success at the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) National Medical Challenge Bowl, held during the annual conference. After a rigorous and competitive event, the team placed in the top 4 percent nationally. The team comprised students Victoria I., Taylor R., Emily A., and their faculty coach, Professor Askisha D.

The AAPA Challenge Bowl is a prestigious competition that showcases the skills and knowledge of physician associate (PA) students, fostering a sense of community and professional pride among future PAs. This year, the WCU-Texas MPA team demonstrated their exceptional abilities, further reinforcing the program’s reputation for excellence.��

“The overall experience was electric and exhilarating! The first round was so nerve-racking because there was a steep cut-off from 96 initial teams to 24 teams moving forward to Round 2,” Team WCU’s Victoria I. said about the competition. “After that first round, though, the nerves mostly disappeared, and we were in game mode! We had a great time and were proud to represent our school and our MPA program.”

Reflecting on their preparation, Taylor R. noted, “We competed in the Texas medical knowledge bowl last year, so I feel like that helped us gain a little confidence and we already had a strategy for practicing. Since we are in clinical rotations now, we FaceTimed each other after our shifts and would each ask questions.”

Emily A. highlighted the extensive support the team received, explaining, “We received an immense amount of support from our classmates, faculty, and school. Our student executive board first offered us the opportunity to compete and funded our way there. Our professors helped us practice and encouraged us to be confident. Our classmates cheered us on at AAPA and made creative signs for the competition. Professor Akisha also made the drive to Houston, and even Dean Bronson was on FaceTime the whole time, cheering us on! They made the experience so much better and more fun, so thank you to all of these amazing people!”

The AAPA Challenge Bowl is an annual national medical quiz competition organized by the American Academy of Physician Associates. It is a highly anticipated event within the PA community, typically taking place during the AAPA’s annual conference. The competition pits teams of PA students from various programs against each other in a rigorous test of medical knowledge and clinical skills.

Structured similarly to a quiz bowl, the Challenge Bowl involves multiple rounds of questions covering a broad range of medical topics, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, clinical medicine, and medical ethics. Teams are eliminated based on their performance in each round until the final winner is determined.

Professor Akisha D., who coached the team, said she was “honored to witness their transformation from didactic learning to clinical practice.”

“Observing their remarkable growth and brilliant performance was an incredible experience. Our WCU MPA cheering section began at the back of the ballroom among 96 competing teams and gradually moved to the front as we advanced through each round,” she said.

The WCU-Texas MPA team’s outstanding performance at the AAPA National Medical Challenge Bowl is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of their faculty and peers.

Congratulations to Victoria, Taylor, Emily, and Professor Askisha D. for their remarkable achievement and for making the WCU community proud.

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WCU Alumni Association Empowers Texas Community Through Volunteerism

�� — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:46:14 +0000

Volunteers from ��’s Alumni Association rolled up their sleeves to participate in the , which took place on March 23, 2024. The event is a one-day, citywide volunteer movement where participants are matched with a qualifying service project. It aims to celebrate the unity in the Grand Prairie community while making a tangible impact for those in need.

Under the coordination of the WCU alumni team, our volunteers were matched with the , which provides essential support such as food, clothing, and household items to families and children. Through close collaboration with various local entities, including churches, schools, and law enforcement, the center ensures comprehensive services and assistance are available to those in need.

WCU alumna Sandra M., BSN ’15, shared, “As nurses, we are familiar with the needs of our community and how to help them. Having the opportunity to give back (with the Alumni Association) is a great way to further serve our community.”

Our WCU volunteers came together to perform a wide array of maintenance and upkeeping tasks, from raking leaves to hauling away debris to tending to the landscape by weeding and cutting tree limbs. Beyond the hands-on service, volunteers were able to talk to Reverend Elena and gain insight into the facility’s role in the community. The reverent highlighted the impact volunteer efforts would have, emphasizing how beautifying the center’s exterior sent a powerful message of care and commitment to the vulnerable families and children they serve. The impact of their work is a testament to the power of community service and the difference it can make.

The recent ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony marked a significant milestone in the center’s journey, made possible through the community’s support and the dedicated efforts of WCU’s Alumni Association.

“It’s important to be active in the WCU Alumni Association because you can participate in memorable events like this — giving back to the community. It’s just a great feeling to be involved,” said Paula S., BSN ’23.

Want more stories of our WCU alumni making a difference in the world? Check out this story of alumni providing dental care abroad through a non-profit.

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WCU-Texas Archives | ��������

Inspired by Family, �������� MSLP Student Is Driven to Make a Difference