Student Lounge Archives | ��

Modern Healthcare Shows Its Never a Bad Time to Be A Student Leader at ��

�� — Wed, 07 May 2025 17:58:31 +0000

At ��, we know that the future of healthcare depends on collaboration. That’s why interprofessional education (IPE) is a vital component of how we prepare our students to lead in today’s complex healthcare environment. Recently, Jaanam T. one of our Master of Health Administration students demonstrated this commitment firsthand, representing WCU as a student leader and facilitator at the University of Texas at Austin’s IPE event.

Bringing together students from various healthcare disciplines, the IPE event challenged participants to work collaboratively on real-world healthcare scenarios. Jaanam was selected to serve as a facilitator — a role that required not only confidence and communication, but also the ability to guide a team of diverse professionals through thoughtful discussions and problem-solving.

One of the key topics explored was the growing influence of vaping among youth. As facilitator, she helped lead their group in examining this issue from multiple perspectives — medical, administrative, behavioral, and social — while encouraging each team member to contribute their insights. It was an experience that brought their WCU coursework to life and showcased the importance of interprofessional collaboration in developing holistic, effective solutions.

“Being part of this event really reinforced how well-prepared I am for real-world healthcare challenges,” Jaanam shared. “WCU has given me the foundation to lead, communicate, and collaborate in diverse settings. This event was a great example of what healthcare looks like when we work together.”

Beyond the engaging discussions, the IPE experience offered valuable opportunities to network with peers and professionals, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence in decision-making. Perhaps most importantly, it emphasized a core truth in healthcare: No single discipline can do it all. The best outcomes come from teams that communicate openly, respect each other’s expertise, and work together with the patient in mind.

Currently balancing coursework with a career as a behavioral technician, she credits the flexibility of WCU’s online program for allowing them to pursue both professional and academic goals. Outside the classroom and clinic, they enjoy traveling, reading, and diving into historical topics — all of which fuel a lifelong curiosity and passion for learning.

Events like this are more than just academic exercises — they are essential learning experiences that prepare students for the realities of today’s healthcare system. At WCU, we are proud to support interprofessional opportunities that challenge our students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and grow as leaders.

We encourage all students to take part in IPE activities whenever possible. Whether you’re pursuing a career in nursing, administration, therapy, or any other health profession, these experiences are invaluable for developing the skills and mindset needed to make a lasting impact in the field

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WCU Student Went From Kinesiology to Occupational Therapy in Journey of Discovery and Dedication��

�� — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Faith P.’s path to becoming an occupational therapy doctorate student at ��’s Center for Graduate Studies wasn’t always clear. Her journey, which began with a kinesiology degree, has now led her to a program she is passionate about — and one that is helping her build the career she always dreamed of.

Faith’s love for the human body and its systems started early. She pursued a bachelor’s in kinesiology at another university, knowing she wanted a career that allowed her to understand and work with the body. It wasn’t until she met a friend — someone who had already graduated from her alma mater — that she first learned about occupational therapy.

“She was in the process of coming back for some additional credits to pursue the master’s program [at West Coast],” Faith explained. “We got to talking, and she introduced me to the world of OT. She raved about it, and as she shared more, I just fell in love with the idea.”

This conversation sparked something in Faith. It was her friend’s enthusiasm for OT and her own deep interest in human health that made Faith take the leap and apply for the OT program at WCU-CGS.

“She told me the program was amazing, and that West Coast had a great track record with the NBCOT exam,” Faith recalled. “That was really what sold me, knowing the program was designed to help me succeed.”

Faith was also pleasantly surprised by the support and resources available at WCU-CGS, which exceeded her expectations.

“I never expected to have so many opportunities to connect with people,” she said. “The resources, the community — it’s all beyond what I imagined. I’m not just learning a profession; I’m building long-lasting relationships and a career that I never thought I could create.”

One of the most rewarding aspects of Faith’s experience has been the strong sense of community she’s found at WCU-CGS.

“The connections I’ve made have been crucial to my success,” she shared. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I’ve felt like I’m part of something bigger than myself.”

Faith’s cohort has become like a family. “We talk every day, even outside of school. It’s not just about OT. We’ve really become close friends,” she added.

She’s also been able to build relationships with faculty, mentors, and other students through various leadership roles. Faith serves as a coordinator for Peer Assisted Learning (PALs), where upper-term students mentor newer cohorts, helping them with practical exams and study sessions.

“It’s an amazing experience,” Faith said. “It’s like I’m giving back what I’ve learned, and it’s been a great way to connect with other students.”

In addition, Faith is the president of the Student Occupational Therapy Association, where she works alongside other student leaders to promote community engagement, fundraising, and wellness for OT students.

“I never expected to be president of SOTA,” she laughed. “But I had the support of my community. They encouraged me to step into this leadership role, and with their help, I’ve been able to succeed.”

In contrast to her undergrad experience, WCU-CGS has provided Faith with a clear and structured path.

“They gave me everything I needed — classes, timelines, even resources like the library and fieldwork coordinators,” Faith said. “It’s been so much more organized and supportive than my undergrad experience. I feel like I finally have the guidance I need.”

For anyone considering a career in occupational therapy, Faith had some wise advice: “Just go for it. Don’t doubt yourself. It’s hard work, but you can do hard things.”

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WCU Programs Reflect Importance of Accreditation: A Testament to Academic Excellence��

�� — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:00:58 +0000

Accreditation is one of the most critical factors when evaluating a university’s quality and credibility. It serves as a hallmark of excellence, recognizing that an institution meets rigorous academic and professional standards. For students, accreditation validates their education, providing confidence that their degree will be recognized by employers, licensing boards, and other institutions. For faculty and staff, it signifies a commitment to continuous improvement, excellence in teaching, and a dedication to student success.

In 2024, �� reaffirmed its dedication to academic distinction by achieving multiple prestigious accreditations across various programs. These achievements reflect our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest education standards so that our students receive the best possible preparation for their careers.

2024 Accreditation Achievements

WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC): 10-Year Reaffirmation of Accreditation

The WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) is one of the leading accrediting bodies ensuring the quality and integrity of higher education institutions in the western United States. Receiving a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation underscores our university’s dedication to academic excellence, student support, and institutional effectiveness.��

Physician Assistant Program (MPA, Texas): Accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) is responsible for ensuring that physician assistant programs meet stringent national standards. Following a successful site visit with zero findings, our Master of Physician Assistant (MPA) program in Texas continues to uphold its provisional accreditation status, demonstrating excellence in faculty expertise, curriculum, and student success.��

Pharmacy Program (PharmD, California): Accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)

The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) is the leading accreditation agency for pharmacy education in the U.S. Our Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program in California received an impressive 8-year grant of accreditation, reaffirming our commitment to producing skilled, knowledgeable, and ethical pharmacists.��

Physical Therapy Program (DPT, California): Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)��

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is responsible for evaluating the quality of physical therapy programs nationwide. Our Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program in California received a 10-year grant of accreditation, the highest possible, signifying our excellence in physical therapy education, research, and clinical training.��

Nursing Programs: Accreditation from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) & Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)��

Accreditation in nursing education is vital for ensuring the competency and readiness of future nurses. Our nursing programs achieved two significant milestones in 2024:��

National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) granted our programs the maximum accreditation of 5 years, reflecting our dedication to innovative and student-centered nursing education.��

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) awarded a 10-year grant of reaccreditation, a testament to our ongoing commitment to excellence in nursing education at all levels.��

Why Accreditation Matters

Earning and maintaining accreditation is not just about meeting regulatory requirements — it is about fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. Accreditation:

Is a testament that academic programs have met the highest educational standards.

Enhances employment opportunities for graduates by making degrees more widely recognized and respected.

Provides access to federal and state financial aid programs.

Encourages innovation and growth in academic programs and student services.

Strengthens institutional reputation and credibility.

Commitment to Excellence

These prestigious accreditations affirm WCU’s mission to provide quality education and training to future healthcare and allied professionals. Our faculty, staff, and leadership remain dedicated to maintaining these high standards, providing our students with the best education possible.

As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we look forward to continuing our pursuit of excellence in education and innovation.

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Why One Student Chose WCU’s DPT Program to Follow Her Passion for Helping Others��

�� — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000

��’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is all about empowering students to make a real impact on people’s lives. For Lilia F., that meant relocating from Northern California to Southern California to join WCU’s Center for Graduate Studies. Drawn by the supportive faculty and welcoming community, she’s found her place here, sharing how WCU has fueled her passion for physical therapy and helped her grow in ways she hadn’t expected.��

Personal Inspiration

Lilia’s passion for physical therapy began with a deeply personal experience. Her love for sports and activities made physical therapy an ideal career path.

“What got me into PT was actually seeing my brother go through it when I was younger, and he wasn’t fully able-bodied,” she explained, reflecting on her younger years. “Seeing how the physical therapist kind of engaged him into getting back into activity and helping him get his motivation back… really brought to light at a young age that helping people is what I wanted to do.”

Choosing ��

Lilia’s search for the right DPT program led her to WCU, where she felt a unique connection with the faculty and the student community.

“I knew I wanted to stay in California,” she said. “When I met the professors and interacted with them… they were the ones that really showed the most care to their students.” The compassion and dedication of the faculty have proven invaluable. “I can say most of those professors were the reasons why we continued and didn’t give up.”

Support from Faculty

Throughout her journey, Lilia has felt deeply supported by her professors, who have cultivated an encouraging and understanding environment. She noted one professor’s approach, saying, “He felt the energy that we were feeling in the room. He felt the nerves; he felt the anxiety. And he took the time to speak with us and tell us, you know, ‘Do your best, and that’s all that should matter.’” These reassurances have helped her, and her cohort gain the confidence to succeed.

A Cohort That Feels Like Family

The support within Lilia’s cohort has been just as meaningful. “No matter what, whenever something happened to a student, we backed each other up… we wanted to make sure our class was a family, and we had each other’s backs.” Lilia appreciates her bond with her classmates, who offer support through challenges and share in each other’s triumphs.

White Coat Ceremony: A Symbol of Transition

Recently, Lilia celebrated the White Coat Ceremony, a symbolic milestone for DPT students. “Today we’re doing our white coat ceremony, which signifies the end of our didactics… and now starting in September, we’re out in clinics treating patients.” This transition marks a significant shift from classroom learning to real-world clinical practice.

Preparing for Clinical Rotations

Lilia and her cohort are about to begin their full clinical rotations, where they will apply the skills, they’ve learned. Many will stay in California. However, some will choose to travel out of state. “I’m very excited for the hands-on… I’m ready to work with the patients, building that connection, seeing the results.”

Resources and Lasting Faculty Connections

WCU’s DPT program has equipped students with extensive resources, from faculty guidance to administrative support. Lilia emphasized the faculty’s enduring commitment: “Our professors have been there for us no matter what, and they even state to this day that they’re going to be with us even after. We can call them at any time.”

Advice for Future DPT Students

Lilia’s advice to prospective students is simple: “Do it. It definitely challenges you, but the most important thing that helps me, especially being far away from my family and friends, is to take time for yourself… because without yourself, you’re not going to get through the program. Without a mindset that is positive, you can get lost. Doing stuff that reminded me of who I am and what I love aside from studying… that’s really what helped me.” She believes in prioritizing personal well-being as the foundation for academic success.

Be a Part of the WCU Physical Therapy Community

��’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is more than an academic path; it’s a supportive, inspiring community that fosters the next generation of physical therapists. With dedicated professors, close-knit cohorts, and hands-on clinical experience, WCU’s DPT program prepares students like Lilia to thrive in a meaningful, patient-focused career.��

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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 nonverbal people. “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 relocated 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 Professor Empowers Students to Thrive in Diverse Healthcare��

�� — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:00:47 +0000

When Associate Professor Sunil T. walks into a classroom, he brings with him over two decades of clinical experience and a passion for shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. With 11 years at ��’s Orange County campus, Sunil has been a guiding force for countless nursing students, helping them navigate their academic and professional journeys.

A Global Nursing Career

Sunil’s path to teaching was paved with hands-on experience across the globe. After earning his bachelor’s degree in India, he began his career as a registered nurse. “I worked at the bedside in various capacities—emergency rooms, intensive care units, and med-surge,” Sunil shared. His clinical expertise extended to specialized areas such as plastic surgery and emergency care, where he spent the majority of his time.

Teaching was always on his horizon. “In India, I taught nursing students, and that experience stayed with me,” he said. “When I moved to the U.S., I saw an opportunity to continue teaching while bringing my global perspective to a diverse student body.”

A Culture of Support and Inclusion

Sunil credits ��’s supportive environment as a key factor in his professional growth and his ability to contribute to student success. “The leadership here is incredibly accommodating,” he said. “They provided resources I needed to transition smoothly into teaching in a new country.”

The university’s commitment to diversity has been pivotal in Sunil’s journey. “West Coast embraces people from all backgrounds,” he noted. “This inclusivity creates a rich learning environment where students and faculty can thrive together.”

Student-Centered Education

For Sunil, the real reward of teaching lies in witnessing his students’ transformation. “�� is truly student-centric,” he emphasized. “I teach pharmacology, which is one of the first courses students take, and nursing integration, their final class. Seeing their growth from day one to graduation is incredibly fulfilling.”

He recalled the impact of the university’s comprehensive support system, which includes academic specialists, mentoring programs, and student services. “Students often tell me how much they value the guidance they receive. It’s a collaborative effort that ensures their success.”

Preparing Students for Real-World Challenges

Sunil’s diverse professional background allows him to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for the realities of healthcare. “In India, nursing practices and resources differ significantly from the U.S.,” he explained. “Sharing these global perspectives helps students understand the importance of adaptability and cultural competence in patient care.”

This approach resonates deeply with students, particularly in the diverse communities they serve. “Our students are trained to be empathetic, inclusive, and effective healthcare providers,” Sunil said.

Fostering Growth Through Innovation

Sunil values the academic adaptability at ��, which allows him to innovate in his teaching methods. “I have the flexibility to tailor my classes to meet students’ needs while staying within the curriculum,” he said. “This not only enhances their learning experience but also prepares them for the dynamic nature of healthcare.”

Additionally, the university encourages faculty professional development. “I completed my Doctorate of Nursing Practice while teaching full-time,” Sunil shared. “The administration’s support and the university’s flexibility made it possible.”

A Legacy of Student Success

Sunil’s commitment to his students goes beyond the classroom. “Every graduation is a celebration of their hard work and growth,” he said. “Knowing I played a part in their journey is what drives me.”

Reflecting on his time at ��, “This is a place where students and faculty are empowered to succeed. It’s an honor to be part of a community that values growth, collaboration, and, most importantly, student success.” he said.

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Smile Camp 2025��Helps �� Dental Hygiene Students Shine in Orange County

�� — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Another year, another fantastic Smile Camp hosted by our outstanding Dental Hygiene faculty and students at ��-Orange County.

Providing Free Dental Care & Education

Held in celebration of Children’s Dental Health month, Smile Camp is a special event designed to provide local children with free dental services while educating them on the importance of good oral hygiene.

“Smile Camp is a community service event that the dental hygiene program puts on for students to work with children in our community. We do free cleanings and X-rays and even some sealants,” WCU dental hygiene instructor and BSDH alumna Katie B. shared.

The event also featured a dedicated education room where children could learn about oral hygiene in an engaging way.

“We take students after they’re seen with the dentist and the hygienist, and they go to another room, and they get a lot of education where they learn more about brushing and flossing,” Katie explained. They just get a better understanding about food and diet and how that reacts with their teeth.”

A Valuable Learning Experience for WCU Students

Smile Camp is not only a rewarding experience for the children but also for the �� Dental Hygiene students who participate.

“We take all the applications that we’ve used and taught them for the last three or four terms, and we apply it today where they just focus on children,” Katie shared. ” It’s a great place because we have all the balloons and everything to make it so welcoming for everybody to come.”

For many students, Smile Camp offers their first real-world experience working with pediatric patients.

“The students get to use their skills, and while we apply a lot of our application on adults, they don’t get a lot of experience with children. So, this is a great opportunity for all the students to have some experience time with children,” Katie added.

A Strong Community Turnout

This year’s Smile Camp was a resounding success, with an overwhelming response from the community.

“Today, the feedback has been awesome. We’ve had such a turnout that we have people waiting in line, which is wonderful,” Katie said. “The students are so eager to keep working. They have scheduled times to be here, but so many are just over their scheduled time because they see the benefit of volunteering. Community is a huge part of dental hygiene.”

About the WCU Dental Hygiene Clinic

The impact of Smile Camp extends beyond a single event — ��’s Dental Hygiene Clinic continues to serve the community year-round. The clinic is an educational facility where Dental Hygiene students provide high-quality oral health care under the supervision of licensed dentists and registered dental hygienists.

Couldn’t make it to Smile Camp? The �� Dental Hygiene Clinic is open to the public Monday through Friday, offering no-cost services to more than 15,000 adult and child patients a year.

The �� Dental Hygiene Clinic is located at 1477 S Manchester Ave., Anaheim, CA, 92802 (Fourth Floor). Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are recommended. To schedule an appointment, call (877) 928-2546.��

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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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��’s Career Services Elevates Graduate Success��by Empowering Students

�� — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:00:47 +0000

At ��, the journey from classroom to career is a transformative experience, and no one understands this better than Dianna L.,��our Career Services associate director at the Orange County campus. With a passion for student success and a background in HR and recruitment, Dianna has dedicated the last four years to helping students not only achieve their career goals but also discover their “why” in the healthcare field.��

A Passion for People: From Recruitment to Career Services

Dianna’s journey to �� began in the healthcare recruitment industry, where she connected with aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals. Her role allowed her to delve into the personal stories of candidates, understanding their motivations and aspirations. This interest in people’s stories is what drew her to a career in Career Services at ��.��

“I was always interested in getting to know the candidates’ stories and understanding why they became nurses,” Dianna explained. “When I learned about what �� does to prepare its students for the job search, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”��

Transitioning from recruitment to Career Services was a natural fit for Dianna. It allowed her to continue her passion for guiding individuals on their career paths while also playing a more direct role in their professional development.��

“I love getting to know all my students, learning about their journeys, and helping them with the skills they need to excel in their interviews and job search,” she said.

The Heart of Career Services: Understanding the Student’s “Why”

For Dianna, one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is understanding each student’s unique reason for pursuing a career in nursing.��

“Every student has their own story, often rooted in personal experiences,” she shared.

Whether it’s a former CNA who discovered their calling through hands-on care or a volunteer who found their passion in the hospital setting, these stories are what drive Dianna to provide the best support possible.��

She emphasizes the importance of helping students articulate their “why” during the job search process.

“Employers want to know why a candidate chose nursing as a career, and it’s our job to help students convey that passion in a way that resonates during interviews,” she explained.

From Student to Professional: A Journey of Growth

Dianna described Career Services as the “endpoint” in a student’s journey at ��, where all their hard work culminates in landing their first nursing position. This journey is often filled with emotions — nerves, excitement, and a sense of achievement.��

“It’s incredibly rewarding to receive that call or email from a student saying they’ve received an offer,” Dianna said. “Seeing their growth from their first day in nursing school to the moment they accept a job offer is one of the best parts of my role.”��

She takes pride in the fact that her team is there every step of the way, from preparing students for interviews to celebrating their successes. But Dianna is quick to remind students that their success is ultimately due to their hard work and determination.��

“I always tell them, ‘It was all you.’ They put in the effort, excelled in school, and presented themselves well during interviews,” she added.

A Collaborative Culture Focused on Students

What makes �� truly unique, according to Dianna, is its student-centric approach.��

“Every decision we make in Career Services is with our students in mind,” she said.

Whether it’s planning workshops, organizing employer events, or providing one-on-one support, the goal is always to enhance the student experience and prepare them for success in the real world.

This student-centric focus is supported by a collaborative culture across all campuses. Dianna highlights the teamwork that exists not only within the Career Services department but also with other departments like Student Affairs, the Nursing department, and the NCLEX team.��

“We all have different roles, but at the end of the day, we work together with a common goal: our students,” she explained.

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