Graduates from 国产主播鈥檚 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 鈥� and that鈥檚 what really sold him on the profession. 

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

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.听

“I was making good money in California, but I didn鈥檛 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.  

鈥淚 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.鈥� 

The post Graduates Celebrate 2024 国产主播 Commencement at Plano Events Center appeared first on 国产主播.

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

鈥淚鈥檓 so excited,鈥� Jemima shared. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been a long time coming鈥� a lot of bumps, but it鈥檚 all worth it.鈥� 

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. 

鈥淪he passed from an asthma attack in Nigeria, and my mom always said she didn鈥檛 feel supported,鈥� 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,鈥� 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 国产主播, 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. 

鈥淚t 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. 

鈥淚鈥檝e been taught the skills and critical thinking鈥� I think I鈥檓 ready,鈥� she said. 

Her advice to future students is simple but powerful: 鈥淯se your resources鈥� be vocal about what you鈥檙e dealing with鈥� keep going.鈥� 

The post WCU-Texas BSN Graduate Didn鈥榯 Let Early Stumble Knock Her Off Path of Becoming Nurse appeared first on 国产主播.

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.听

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. 

The post WCU-Texas MPA Teams Shine at TAPA Student Challenge Bowl, Building on National Success聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

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. 

The post Discovery of Physician Assistant Role Led WCU-Texas Student Back to Healthcare Path聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

鈥淲hen I think of what it means to be proud, for me, it鈥檚 being a good person, a kind person, and that I can be a good representative of this amazing community,鈥� said Alex. 鈥淪upporting 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.鈥�

When Alex first found the terms they identified with, it was 鈥渁 lightbulb going off to self-acceptance and pride.鈥� 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鈥檚 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鈥檛 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.

鈥淚鈥檝e been discriminated against, insulted, and told to keep my identity quiet, even in workplaces that were supposedly progressive,鈥� Alex said. 鈥淚 was told I was wrong, evil, and should be institutionalized.鈥�

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

鈥淚t鈥檚 important for everyone to show respect and understanding in both our work environment and the classroom,鈥� Alex said. 鈥淓veryone, regardless of how they identify, should love themself and be kind to themself as well as others.鈥�

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.

鈥淲ords must be backed up by policy and remembrance, not just for Pride Month, but all year long so everyone feels supported,鈥� Alex said. 鈥淚t 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.鈥�

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.

鈥淟GBTQIA+ individuals want to live their lives as everyone does,鈥� Alex said. 鈥淗ating 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.鈥�

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.

鈥淯nderstanding yourself takes time, as it is a personal journey to be part of self-actualization,鈥� Alex said. 鈥淩ead about identities, reflect on them, and give yourself space. What you understand now may grow and change, which is simply human. There is no 鈥榦ne鈥� way to properly be a particular identity, and no one should gatekeep how to be LGBTQIA+鈥攋ust be a good person.鈥�

The post Celebrating Pride Year-Round: Alex, a WCU-Texas Professor, Embraces Identity and Inspires Students appeared first on 国产主播.

The 国产主播-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.听

“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,鈥� Team WCU鈥檚 Victoria I. said about the competition. 鈥淎fter 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 鈥渉onored to witness their transformation from didactic learning to clinical practice.鈥� 

鈥淥bserving 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. 

The post WCU-Texas MPA Team Excels at AAPA National Medical Challenge Bowl聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

Volunteers from 国产主播鈥檚 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.鈥�

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鈥檚 role in the community. The reverent highlighted the impact volunteer efforts would have, emphasizing how beautifying the center鈥檚 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 鈥� 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.

The post WCU Alumni Association Empowers Texas Community Through Volunteerism appeared first on 国产主播.

When Miguel started his educational journey with a bachelor鈥檚 in exercise physiology, he expected to become a physical therapist 鈥� just like his parents. However, it didn鈥檛 take long after finishing his undergraduate degree to figure out that physical therapy was the wrong field for him.

鈥淵ou can feel it in your gut that something鈥檚 not right,鈥� he shared. 鈥淏ut then again, it was in my gut that I still wanted to care for people, you know.鈥�

Instead, Miguel went into the food service industry for a few years, taking roles as a food runner and waiter in North Carolina where he was living at the time. While being a server was not his long-term plan, he liked working directly with people and helping provide a positive experience.

Eventually, he decided to return to his healthcare roots, but this time seeking out the path that was right for his strengths and goals. 鈥淚 gave myself another chance at healthcare,鈥� he said. And it paid off! One year into the Master of Physician Assistant program at WCU-Texas, Miguel is glad to be back in the healthcare space, preparing for a career that鈥檚 full of possibilities!

Check out what he has to say!

WCU: What was your parents鈥� reaction when you told them you were switching away from physical therapy? 

Miguel: They thought it was crazy at first. There was a business to be run, and I said I always wanted to do it. But then they saw my resolve that I really wanted to do this. I understand that PAs are great leaders in the healthcare industry, so here I am now. I鈥檓 really happy about it.

WCU: Was there a moment that solidified it for you that PA was the right career choice?

Miguel: When I found out that you can switch between fields. The lateral mobility has never been like that in any other field. There鈥檚 no limits. For physician assistants, it seems like the possibilities are endless. If I do not like one field, I could go to another field a few years later.

I would like to find out if I鈥檓 still interested in orthopedics. I guess I鈥檓 interested in finding out what I鈥檓 really interested in. With these clinicals, I鈥檓 excited to find out more about myself in terms of how I want to help patients in practice.

WCU: How did you find WCU? 

Miguel: I found 国产主播 just through searching PA programs throughout the country. I was in Oklahoma at the time. It was only four hours from where I had been living. WCU was a fairly new program. We鈥檙e the second cohort in this program, so it was a blessing I was able to find this place before all the applicants found this place. It鈥檚 starting to fill up. Now it鈥檚 harder to get in.

WCU: What has your first year in the program been like? 

Miguel: It was crazy that we were able to learn all of this information, to be honest. Looking back, a year ago I knew nothing, and now I feel more confident that I could practice well going into my clinicals.

It was a lot of studying, a lot of crying 鈥� I鈥檓 not afraid to admit that 鈥� but thank God we have these friendships that we cultivated throughout the year. We helped each other and we鈥檙e here now.

WCU: How did you get through the hard moments? 

Miguel: Just look at what the prize is. We know we鈥檙e going into one of the greatest jobs America has to offer. We know the opportunities that await us, and we can鈥檛 just give up. All of us like to pick ourselves back up to push on because of the opportunity that鈥檚 ahead of us as future physician assistants. I would go on Zillow and be like, 鈥業 could own this one day!鈥�

WCU: What has been the best part of the program so far? 

Miguel: The best part of being in PA school is knowing that the faculty believes in me. That鈥檚 part of why I was able to push through. They believe in me almost like they see me as a colleague, a future colleague. I just know that I鈥檓 not alone in this journey.

WCU: Anything you want to add?  

Miguel: I鈥檇 like to thank 国产主播 for the resources that they provide for us. We have counseling services. We have academic services, and we have financial services. We have a diversity clinic. We have the library where we have access to all these journals for free. Not all schools have these things in place. It鈥檚 nice to know we have this plethora of resources. 

The post MPA Student Branched Out After Returning to Healthcare Roots appeared first on 国产主播.

As an undergraduate, Emma T. was uncertain about the trajectory of her degree. Although she had ruled out medical school, she still grappled with a multitude of paths within the healthcare field to consider.

It was during this time that Emma’s mother introduced her to the idea of becoming a physician assistant. The appeal of working collaboratively in a team while still having autonomy in decision-making struck a chord with Emma, prompting her to pursue this potential career path.

After learning that WCU had launched a new MPA program near where she lives, Emma decided to apply. Despite initial rejection, Emma persisted, gaining two years of experience as a medical and nursing assistant before successfully applying for a second time to the WCU-Texas MPA program.

When asked about her determination, Emma explained, 鈥淚 didn鈥檛 want to do anything else. For some reason, I kept feeling called and pushed to this profession.鈥�

Currently halfway through the program, Emma is not only progressing but thriving. Her success is evident as she has been elected president of the Physician Assistant Student Society. In this capacity, she actively participates in volunteer work with her peers, showcasing her dedication to improving the program and contributing to the community.

Emma acknowledges that the journey was not without its challenges but credits her supportive cohort for keeping her motivated.

“During those tough moments, my classmates help me get through it,” she affirmed.

It was through experiences like these that Emma realized the collaborative spirit within her cohort mirrors the teamwork inherent in the profession.

Offering advice to future MPA students, Emma emphasized the significance of hard work and gaining diverse experiences. She recognizes that each encounter contributes to the journey and development of a well-rounded healthcare professional.

Emma said she can鈥檛 wait to start her clinical year, knowing that she will be able to help people at the end of it.

鈥淚’m really excited to get out there in the real world, see patients, and put everything we know to the test,鈥� she expressed. 

The post Support, Perseverance, Success: Emma T’s MPA Journey appeared first on 国产主播.

国产主播 is proud to announce the new Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, designed inside and out to help prepare aspiring healthcare professionals for rewarding and impactful careers in the mental health field.

With more than 110 years educating generations of healthcare workers, we at WCU are aware of the importance of mental health in today鈥檚 environment. At a time when many are still grappling with the aftermath of COVID-19 and growing social unrest, mental health counselors are uniquely positioned to provide care and support to individuals, couples, and families.

鈥淭he MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is designed to prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to be culturally competent, trauma-informed stalwart advocates for social justice so you can actively promote equity and access to effective and affirmative clinical mental health care for all. You bring you and we鈥檒l teach you the rest!鈥� said Dr. Colleen Logan, dean of the program.

The program is now accepting applications for the first available term, which begins Fall 2023.

What to Expect in the MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program

Students will have the option of completing their coursework online or in a blended format, which combines both online and in-person learning. Students who choose the blended option will attend some of their classes at either our Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles or the WCU-Texas campus in Richardson. The 60-credit, 29-month curriculum allows students to earn their master鈥檚 degree in just under 2.5 years.

Regardless of which option they choose, students have the opportunity to interact in person with both peers and faculty during On-Site Intensives (OSIs) hosted at the university. During these events, students are able to get hands-on practice while receiving immediate feedback from instructors. These will take place over weekends to help accommodate working students.

Online students may also be able to attend local, in-person events such as seminars and roundtable discussions with classmates.

Students in the mental health counseling master鈥檚 program will take courses in topics such as crisis/trauma response and intervention, multicultural counseling, legal and ethical issues in counseling, and more.

Additionally, practicum and internship experiences help provide real-world experience before graduation. WCU offers assistance with practicum and internship placement as well as job placement assistance and a full range of career support services for students and alumni.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do mental health counselors do?
, mental health counselors evaluate a client鈥檚 mental health, addiction, or problematic behavior and help them develop the skills and tools necessary to recover or modify their behavior. In other words, they help people function better during their time of need. Additionally, they often refer clients to other resources and services, such as job placement services and support groups, and prepare clients to transition out of counseling.

What if my bachelor鈥檚 degree isn鈥檛 related to mental health counseling?
That鈥檚 alright! As long as you have an undergraduate degree in any field, you can apply for the master鈥檚 program. We will teach you the skills and tools you鈥檒l need to enter the counseling field.

What is the coursework like in the MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program?
The program includes a variety of innovative learning tools such as original video content, virtual simulations, and mobile-friendly study materials. Additionally, you鈥檒l learn from leading industry professionals, participating in seminars and roundtable discussions on current topics in the counseling field.

How do I find facilities where I can complete my practicum and internship?
At WCU, we foster relationships with different healthcare facilities and can help you find a placement that meets requirements.

Is WCU鈥檚 mental health counseling master鈥檚 program CACREP-accredited?
WCU desires to obtain CACREP accreditation. Therefore, the MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has been designed to align with CACREP accreditation standards so that the pursuit of accreditation can be facilitated. 

Is financial aid available?
Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify! You can explore our scholarship and grant options or get general information about financial aid.

Learn more about WCU鈥檚 mental health counseling master鈥檚 program and its admission requirements on our website, or fill out the form on this page to request more information.  

WCU distance education programs are delivered out of the California and Texas campuses and may not be available to residents in all states.

The post WCU Launches Mental Health Counseling Master鈥檚 Program appeared first on 国产主播.