Alumni Archives | ��

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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WCU-Miami BSN Graduate Put Family First by Putting Herself First

�� — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000

For Katrell J., pursuing her dream meant making one of the hardest decisions of her life — letting her daughter live full-time with her former husband so she could attend school full-time. A U.S. Army veteran, Katrell is no stranger to sacrifice, but this one was personal.

After 15 months deployed in Iraq and years of grueling work in a correctional facility, Katrell recognized that in order to build a better future, she would need to fully commit to her education. That meant choosing to be away from her daughter—a decision she made not just for herself, but for the future of her family.

“I worked at a prison for 6 and 1/2 years. I worked 12-hour shifts, and that took away from me being a parent,” she said. “In order for me to actually pursue this dream of mine, I had to allow her to stay with her father full-time.”��

Despite the emotional toll, Katrell embraced the idea that being “selfish” in the short term could mean long-term gain for her and her daughter.

“Take the time that you need to. If you have to be selfish, be selfish because it’s not—you’re not doing this for you, it’s for your family,” she said.

When she discovered ��-Miami, she felt an instant connection.

“From the first conversation to coming in and doing the walk on campus — everything smooth and it felt like family, like community.”

Now, with the support of programs like Peer-Assisted Learning and a renewed purpose, Katrell is on the verge of giving back in the most meaningful way.��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.��

“I’m just so excited for the day to come where I can actually take those tools and use it and have somebody say, ‘Thank you, you helped me,’” she said.

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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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�� Ranks Among Top Institutions for 40-Year Return on Investment in Higher Education��

�� — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:00:00 +0000

A recent of 40-year Return on Investment (ROI) data places �� among the top-performing institutions nationwide, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for students seeking strong long-term career and financial outcomes.

WCU’s Impressive Long-Term Value

Across its various campuses — including Los Angeles, Orange County, Ontario, Miami and Texas — �� demonstrated remarkably high 40-year ROI figures.

Here’s a quick snapshot:

WCU-Texas leads with an outstanding $3,525,000 40-year ROI.
WCU-Orange County follows closely with a $3,479,000 40-year ROI.
WCU-Miami reports a $3,464,000 40-year ROI.
WCU-Ontario achieves a $3,408,000 40-year ROI.
WCU-Los Angeles maintains a strong $3,397,000 40-year ROI.

These figures represent the estimated financial return a graduate can expect over four decades compared to non-degree holders, adjusted for current dollar value.

Center on Education and the Workforce. (February 26, 2025). Ranking 4,600 colleges by ROI (2025). Georgetown University.

Why It Matters

Return on investment is a critical measure for students considering higher education, especially in a competitive field like healthcare. An institution’s ROI reflects not just tuition costs and initial salaries, but the compounded financial impact over an entire career.

At ��, students receive a focused, career-centered education with an emphasis on clinical experience, technologically advanced facilities, and strong employer partnerships. These advantages translate directly into robust employment outcomes and high lifetime earnings, key drivers behind WCU’s outstanding ROI performance.

A Leader in Healthcare Education

As a private university specializing in healthcare degrees, �� continues to distinguish itself from many traditional institutions. The data proves that WCU graduates are seeing substantial returns on their educational investment, often exceeding those of graduates from many public and private nonprofit institutions.

Whether pursuing nursing, dental hygiene, occupational therapy, or other healthcare fields, WCU students benefit from programs designed to meet the real-world demands of today’s employers, resulting in career longevity and financial security.

Lifelong Value

Choosing a university is about more than just where you study — it’s about where your education can take you. With one of the highest 40-year ROIs in healthcare education, �� empowers its students to invest wisely in their futures, achieving not just their dreams, but lifelong professional and financial success.

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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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From Nurse to Health Leader: How WCU’s MHA Program Helped One Nurse Level Up Her Career��

�� — Wed, 28 May 2025 16:00:32 +0000

After more than a decade as a nurse, Trish N. was ready to take the next step in her healthcare journey. She’d seen it all — long nights in acute care hospitals, fast-paced days at ambulatory surgery centers, and even staffing shifts across departments in large health systems. What she wanted next was a way to make a bigger impact on the healthcare system, and that’s where ��’s Master of Health Administration (MHA) program came in.��

“I’ve been a nurse since 2012, the same year I had my baby,” Trish shared. “I got my vocational nursing license and started working at Kindred Hospital. That gave me a strong foundation — I saw how critical patients can get, and how important our role is in helping them recover, or sadly, sometimes not.”

Building on a Strong Foundation in Clinical Care

With over 10 years of hands-on experience, Trish had developed a passion not only for patient care but for understanding the systems that support healthcare delivery.

“I started in long-term acute care, then moved into ambulatory surgery, which was fast paced. I liked seeing patients recover quickly after surgery and go home to their families. That was very rewarding,” she said. “But I also started noticing how each facility operated differently—some were more efficient, some had more complaints, delays, or issues. That got me interested in the management ��.”&�Բ��;

That curiosity sparked something deeper — a desire to lead, influence, and improve the healthcare system from the inside.

Taking the Leap into an MHA Program

During the pandemic, Trish received a message about WCU’s online MHA program. At first, she thought it might be spam. But after researching, she took a leap of faith.

“I wasn’t sure if it was real, but I thought — why not give it a try? I didn’t even know a program like this was out there for someone like me. But I applied, and I got accepted.”

Despite having earned a bachelor’s degree in Vietnam, Trish was nervous about returning to school — especially in a new country and in a new language.

“I was excited but scared,” she said. “It had been over 10 years since I’d been in school, and everything had to be in APA format, professional writing, with proper grammar and layout. But I learned. I asked for help when I needed it, and I stayed up until 2 a.m. sometimes to get my work done.”

A Program Designed for Working Professionals

One feature of the online MHA program at �� is its flexibility — designed for working healthcare professionals to balance jobs, families, and education.

“If I can do it, anyone can,” Trish said. “The school has a great system. The professors, even the dean, were supportive. If I was a little late for an assignment, I’d get a gentle reminder. They motivate you and guide you.”

Over the course of the two-year program, Trish explored ethics, leadership, healthcare finance, and more.

“You start with topics like ethics, which are so important in healthcare. Then you move into business topics, IT, and management. By the end, you’re thinking about the whole healthcare system — not just your department.”

From Student to Educator and Leader

After graduating in 2024, Trish found a role that was directly tied to her MHA degree.

“Now I’m working as a clinical instructor for an LVN program,” she said proudly. “I get to pass on what I’ve learned and continue growing. I’m still learning too, building confidence and communication skills.”

Looking ahead, Trish isn’t stopping anytime soon.

“I want to do more. I want to see change in the medical field. We need more leadership in healthcare — people with a good heart, with passion. People who can guide others and help teams work together toward something bigger.”

Trish believes the MHA program at WCU helped her put fuel in the tank for that next phase of her journey.

“It’s like you fill up your gas tank with knowledge and now the engine is ready to go. You just have to turn the key.”

Advice for Future MHA Students

For anyone considering enrolling in WCU’s Master of Health Administration program, Trish’s message is clear:

“Don’t hesitate. If you have the desire to lead and make a difference in healthcare, this program gives you the tools. You can work while going to school, and time goes by fast. Before you know it, you’re done — and you’re ready.”

Interested in Becoming a Leader in Healthcare?

��’s online MHA program is designed for working professionals who want to make a greater impact in the healthcare field. Learn from experienced faculty, gain practical leadership skills, and graduate prepared to take on management roles across the healthcare industry.

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2025 WCU Alumni Entrepreneurship Award Had Bright Idea to Assist Pediatric Vein Finding

�� — Wed, 07 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

After serving five years in the Marine Corps, �� BSN alumni Adam B. found himself asking, “What’s next?”

With no desire to pursue a medical career, Adam began working in the wine industry and studying marketing but soon wanted a more fulfilling career. He pursued a role in the San Diego Fire Department and worked as an EMT, but when he was exposed to nursing – everything changed.

“I found myself more drawn to the medical side than the rescue aspect, and after meeting nurses in the field, I knew I was on the wrong career path,” he said.

Adam began searching for the right school for him, but they all had a waitlist. A friend recommended looking outside of San Diego and focusing the search on schools with accelerated programs. After visiting WCU-Orange County, he knew it was the right place for him.

“I interviewed at many schools with long waitlists that just weren’t as impressive,” he said.

Adam quickly set goals of becoming an ER nurse and enrolled at �� shortly after his initial visit.

As he approached graduation, Adam was determined to stand out in the job application process. He took a job as an ER tech at a children’s hospital to broaden his experience working with both children and adults. After three weeks of working there, he fell in love with pediatrics.

“I know that’s a very short time frame, but I just loved working with the kids,” he said.

After graduating with his BSN in 2018, Adam became a pediatric specialist, training staff in pediatric care in the ER. It was during this journey and witnessing the staff struggle to place infant IVs that Adam developed another calling: entrepreneurship.

To help the staff improve IV placement on the first attempt, he developed a makeshift vein finder in his garage.

“This sparked my interest to make a commercially made vein finder for infants that was affordable and easy to use,” he said.

Together with a friend and fellow PED nurse, Adam developed the Firefly Vein Light.

Recently, Adam was honored with the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award at the 2025 WCU Alumni Awards, celebrating alumni who have demonstrated exceptional success in entrepreneurship.

“Coming from a university, where they celebrate alumni making an impact beyond bedside care — it’s truly special,” he said. “We’re trying to enhance the quality of care for kids. And so, this award means more than you know.”

While Adam is focused on expanding his company’s portfolio with additional medical products, he recently earned his labor and delivery certification and plans on pursuing that specialty this summer.

“I’ve always wanted to do labor and delivery,” he said. “I originally decided against it because I figured it would be a little harder with my background and being a male nurse, but I’m excited for this new venture.”

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