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When Sophia S. graduated in 2021, she was ready to begin her nursing career, but less than a month getting her RN license, her training would be put to the test in a way no one could have predicted. 

In November 2021, Sophia and her best friend attended the Astroworld music festival in Houston. When a sudden crowd surge turned the event into one of the deadliest concert tragedies in recent history, Sophia’s instincts as a new nurse took over. 

“I was there as a fan,” she recalled, “but once I realized what was happening, my brain kind of just went from, ‘OK, I’m good — now let’s go help people.’ I will always put other people’s needs in front of me. It’s just who I am.” 

Her courage and quick action that night would later be featured in a released this summer, bringing her story to millions. 

Prepared Before She Knew It 

But the lessons she learned at ��������-Los Angeles were fresh in her mind. Particularly, the lessons from the simulation labs, where students practice making critical decisions under pressure. “The simulation labs really helped me,” she said. “They put you into scenarios where you don’t know what you’re walking into. That prepared me to stay calm and act, even outside the hospital setting.” 

When the surge began, Sophia and her friend were pulled apart. Alone but surrounded by panic, she relied on her training.  

“I started triaging people in my head,” she said. “You have to decide who needs help first, and who might still have a chance. That’s exactly what we were taught to do.” 

One man in particular showed faint signs of life. Sophia focused her efforts on him, performing CPR until medical teams arrived. “That was always a fear in my head, that I was also going to lose this guy,” she said. “But I didn’t. He’s alive, he’s great.” 

A Calling That Started Young 

Sophia’s instinct to serve others has always been a part of her. “I think I was just born with it,” she said. “Even when I was 8 or 9 years old, I wanted to be a nurse. Helping people is innate for me.” 

Choosing WCU was a natural step toward that dream. “I chose �������� because of the accelerated BSN program, the supportive faculty, and the commitment to student success. I wanted to be a nurse and start my career as fast as possible. So, what better way than to come to West Coast.” 

Finding Her Place in Nursing 

After the Astroworld tragedy, Sophia’s perspective on her career shifted. “That night changed me,” she said. “I don’t think I could ever do hospital nursing after what I went through. But I’m still a nurse.” 

Instead, she found her calling in public health. “Serving the community brings me happiness,” she explained. “Patients see someone who speaks their language, looks like them, and understands them. That gives them trust. They feel more comfortable around me. Knowing that I’m able to help someone… it brings a lot of inspiration and a lot of hope, and that makes me really happy.” 

Today, Sophia continues to serve with compassion, skill, and resilience, making a difference outside of the traditional bedside setting. 

Lessons for Future Nurses 

Looking back, Sophia reflects on her experience at WCU with gratitude, both for the training that prepared her and for the resilience she discovered in herself. “Although it gets hard, just keep going,” she said to current students. “Your future you will thank you.” 

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.