As a Navy service member, a mother, and a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), 国产主播-Orange County graduate Willina D. had to become an expert in balance when pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

鈥淚t was difficult. I lived in Murietta, traveled to Anaheim for school, and then San Diego for the military, and I have a 6-year-old, so it was a lot. I just made it work. I already had a goal in mind, got tunnel vision, and did what I needed to do to complete it,鈥� Willina said. 鈥淪ometimes it was overwhelming. But my family and my support system are what really pushed me through to complete my program.鈥� 聽聽

At a young age, Willina knew her goal was to become a nurse just like her mother.

鈥淲hen they used to have 鈥榯ake your child to work day,鈥� I would always go to work with my mom and I just became inspired by the nurses and all they did for the families to feel connected, loved, and safe,鈥� she said.

Now as a WCU-OC graduate, Willina says her son is just as inspired by her accomplishment.

鈥淗e鈥檚 been included the whole journey. He knew when I started and when my finish date was, so once I completed, he鈥檚 like, 鈥極h, my mommy鈥檚 a nurse!鈥欌�� she shared. 鈥淵ou could tell he鈥檚 super proud to be my son and I鈥檓 proud to be his mom.鈥�

Willina鈥檚 next move is to become a Navy Officer, working in a hospital and continuing to serve her country.

鈥淚 would love to be a light to anybody that I encounter, and that鈥檚 my goal,鈥� she said.

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