Online Archives | 返字心頭 110+ years in education. 50,000 alumni across the globe. Infinite opportunities. Sat, 21 Dec 2024 18:51:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Online Archives | 返字心頭 32 32 Graduates Celebrate 2024 返字心頭 Commencement at Plano Events Center /blog/graduates-celebrate-2024-west-coast-university-commencement-at-plano-center Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:00:00 +0000 /?p=21722

Graduates from 返字心頭s Texas campus and Online 返字心頭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 […]

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Graduates from 返字心頭s Texas campus and Online 返字心頭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 and thats what really sold him on the profession. 

I never felt like a number at 返字心頭,” Anthony said. “I felt like they saw me as a person, and today, I’m most thankful to be completing my master’s program.

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.

“I was making good money in California, but I didnt 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.  

I 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. 

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Former Reality Star Inspires LGBTQ+ Youth While Pursuing MSN Degree at WCU /blog/from-reality-tv-to-healthcare-hero-jerome-a-inspires-lgbtq-youth-while-pursuing-msn Wed, 02 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000 /?p=18551

Before he started the WCU Online Program to pursue his MSN and become an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Jerome A. had a story to tell namely coming out as gay on television to his home country of the Philippines.

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Long before he started the WCU Online Program to pursue his MSN and become an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Jerome A. had a story to tell. Born and raised in the Philippines, the 37-year-old rose to fame by competing in the seventh season of Pinoy Big Brother, the Philippine version of the popular Big Brother franchise. While on the show in 2016, Jerome decided to do something bold and come out as gay on national television.   

I did that because I want young people in my country to see that theres nothing wrong with being gay or lesbian or whoever you are, Jerome said. At least one young gay person watching you will have the courage to do the same thing because they know they can participate in the community and make a big change.   

Coming out, especially to the entire country, was not something Jerome took lightly. His parents didnt even know he was gay, so the announcement came as a surprise to everyone around him.   

It was tough. I kind of sensed that after this, people were going to be like, Oh my god! We know youre gay! I disregarded all of that information. I told myself, Youre not doing it because of those people. Youre not doing it because of the people around you. Youre doing it because you want to free yourself. It was a very memorable moment.   

After Jerome left the Big Brother house, he wasnt sure how hed be received by the public.   

When I was outside after the show, I kind of reviewed all the information that came out. It was everywhere! It was on the news, on social media, and on Google. It was crazy, he said. But that day was the day that I saw myself. Thats the day I considered myself being fully happy.   

With this newfound happiness, Jerome found the ambition to pursue something hed always wanted: his MSN.   

I asked myself, after coming out as a gay person: Whats next? How are you going to contribute? Because we dont live only for ourselves. If you have something to share, you have to talk. If you have something to contribute, you have to work… to pursue my lifes purpose. This was a good start.  

Since Jeromes confidence and self-love now flow out abundantly, its easy for him to imagine how he might use his experience to help other young LGBTQ+ people in the healthcare space and beyond.   

I pursued a nurse practitioner career because I want to specialize in STIs. I want to serve as an advocate for LGBTQ+ people and be someone who is there to provide information, he said. Sometimes, people dont open up about their sexual history. They dont open up about their sexual encounters. Gay men tend to keep some information to themselves because theyre scared. I want to help the community.  

When asked about what advice hed give to queer youth in his position, Jerome emphasized the importance of knowing when the time is right.  

Do not push if you feel like its not the time yet. You always need to have a support system. You always need to consider what will make you happy at the end of the day, he said.   

Ultimately, Jeromes message to the world is one of inclusivity and love, something he carries into his practice and beyond: Whether you are male, female, gay, lesbian we are all the same.  

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WCU MSOT Student Loved Flexibility of Online Learning Experience /blog/wcu-msot-student-loved-flexibility-of-online-learning-experience Sun, 14 Jul 2024 16:00:00 +0000 /?p=18457

The path to becoming an occupational therapist (OT) has been a unique and transformative experience, especially when navigating the nuances of online learning. As a 返字心頭 OT program student, Devora W. had the opportunity to experience a synchronous learning format that blends the best of both worlds online and in-person education. Here is what she […]

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The path to becoming an occupational therapist (OT) has been a unique and transformative experience, especially when navigating the nuances of online learning. As a 返字心頭 OT program student, Devora W. had the opportunity to experience a synchronous learning format that blends the best of both worlds online and in-person education. Here is what she had to share about her experience.  

Embracing the World of Online Learning

One of the standout benefits of the OT program is the flexibility it offers through its online synchronous classes. With several days dedicated to online learning, it allows us to remain in the comfort of our homes, save time on commuting, and manage other responsibilities like family and homework. This structure is particularly supportive, providing the necessary balance to accommodate our personal and academic lives.  

Comparing Online to In-Class Learning

When comparing online learning to traditional classroom settings, the ability to stay at home stands out as a major advantage. Personally, I find comfort in learning from home, though I also appreciate the in-person sessions that offer hands-on experience. This hybrid model ensures we receive comprehensive training without sacrificing the convenience that online classes provide. 

Advantages of Online Classes

The primary advantages of online classes include the comfort of being at home and the significant time saved on commuting. This time can be reallocated to other essential activities, making the learning process more efficient and adaptable to our schedules. The seamless operation of online classes these days further enhances the learning experience, making it a viable and effective alternative to traditional methods.

Advice for Future OT Students

To future students considering the OT program, my advice is simple: push through. The journey may seem daunting, but the end is closer than it appears. Enjoy every moment and embrace each experience as an opportunity for growth. This period is crucial for developing into the OT professional you aspire to be.

The Rewarding Aspect of OT 

What I love most about OT is the ability to help individuals regain confidence and independence in their lives. The rewarding nature of this work is not just about the impact on others, but also the personal fulfillment it brings. Seeing someone’s life transform is truly an amazing experience. 

Reflecting on the Journey

If I could go back in time to my first day at WCU, I would tell myself that the program progresses faster than expected. This awareness would encourage me to savor each moment and maximize my learning opportunities.

Impact and Future Aspirations

After graduating, I aim to raise awareness about the true essence of occupational therapy. Its not just about helping people find jobs; its about empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential and independence. Post-graduation, I look forward to working in the pediatric field and am excited about the new chapter that awaits.

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Embracing Change: MSLP Student Thrives in Role of Learner /blog/embracing-change-mslp-student-thrives-in-role-of-learner Wed, 10 Apr 2024 16:00:18 +0000 /?p=15918

Motivated by a desire for change but also having a profession that integrated her background as a teacher, Julie C. began her journey into the online Master of Speech-Language Pathology program at 返字心頭.  Julie first discovered speech-language pathology through her sister, whose son worked with a speech-language pathologist at school. Intrigued by the field’s combination of science and education, […]

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Motivated by a desire for change but also having a profession that integrated her background as a teacher, Julie C. began her journey into the online Master of Speech-Language Pathology program at 返字心頭. 

Julie first discovered speech-language pathology through her sister, whose son worked with a speech-language pathologist at school. Intrigued by the field’s combination of science and education, Julie explored further and found SLP to be a perfect fit with her extensive knowledge of biological health sciences and chemistry after a decade of teaching physics, chemistry, and middle school STEM classes. 

This profession allows me to apply all of my skills in a new way, she said. Its a great change of pace, especially for someone in their middle age seeking something different. 

Julie said she was drawn to WCU because of its innovative and fresh approach to the MSLP program. Being a new program, WCU provided Julie with the opportunity to grow alongside the program and contribute to its evolving success. 

I thought, Theyre new at this, Im new at this, Im going to give it a chance, she said.  

Embracing the transition from teacher to student, Julie found her stride within a few months despite initial challenges, including self-doubt. Thanks to the support received from her instructors, she began gaining confidence and deepening her passion for the field. 

The instructors put in effort to get to know you and your learning style, Julie said. They find a way within the group to tailor to the individual. 

Julie envisions using her newly gained SLP skills to address the unique challenges faced by rural schools and bring attention to the educational needs of smaller populations.  

Ive enjoyed the SLP profession more with every month that goes by, Julie said. As I gain skills, I also gain confidence, and I hope to use it in a meaningful way. 

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MSLP Student Excited to Take Speech Career to Next Level with Graduate Degree /blog/mslp-student-excited-to-take-speech-career-to-next-level-with-graduate-degree Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:00:34 +0000 /?p=15943

Jessica W. always felt drawn to working with children but soon realized that the conventional role of a teacher in a classroom wasn’t right for her. Determined to explore other options, she stumbled upon speech-language pathology during her high school years while shadowing an SLP and found it to be a perfect fit.  Communication is such […]

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Jessica W. always felt drawn to working with children but soon realized that the conventional role of a teacher in a classroom wasn’t right for her. Determined to explore other options, she stumbled upon speech-language pathology during her high school years while shadowing an SLP and found it to be a perfect fit. 

Communication is such an important part of our daily lives, she said. Just to see a little spark and open that door for communication for a kid is very rewarding. 

Jessica worked for six years as an SLP aide, always nurturing the dream of advancing her education. The decision to pursue a master’s degree was a natural one, she said, as it opened opportunities for career growth and a broader scope of practice. 

Choosing the right program for Jessica meant seeking a balance between online and on-campus learning. The online master of speech-language pathology program at 返字心頭 provided her with the perfect blend of both, allowing her to work part-time while pursuing her education.  

I needed some kind of face-to-face interaction with professors and students, but I also didnt want a fully on-campus program, Jessica said. I needed a program that was flexible. 

As part of the first WCU online MSLP cohort, Jessica acknowledged the learning experience for both students and educators during her program. She said she especially valued the openness of her professors in refining her educational journey. 

Theyve all taken our feedback and tried to apply it, she said. They want to make sure we learn the material well. 

Jessica looks forward to starting her second year, anticipating the opportunity to complete her medical placements. She shared her excitement about exploring various areas within the field, although she currently leans towards continuing her work with children. 

Reflecting on the challenges she’s faced, Jessica is thankful for the camaraderie of the cohort within the MSLP program. Despite encountering moments of doubt and exhaustion, she said she appreciates the support system her cohort has forged. 

Weve created this bond between our classmates, Jessica said. We have a great cohort that has supported and leaned on each other throughout the program.  

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The Top 5 Qualities of Healthcare Entrepreneurs /blog/the-top-5-qualities-of-healthcare-entrepreneurs Mon, 18 Mar 2024 15:25:00 +0000 /?p=16325 The Top 5 Qualities of Healthcare Entrepreneurs

If youre thinking about launching a business venture within the healthcare sector, youre definitely onto something. From the rising healthcare needs of aging Baby Boomers to advances in technology to demands for premium experiences from healthcare consumers, theres ample opportunity for entrepreneurs who are looking to disrupt the marketplace with new ideas and solutions. Theres […]

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The Top 5 Qualities of Healthcare Entrepreneurs

If youre thinking about launching a business venture within the healthcare sector, youre definitely onto something.

From the rising healthcare needs of aging Baby Boomers to advances in technology to demands for premium experiences from healthcare consumers, theres ample opportunity for entrepreneurs who are looking to disrupt the marketplace with new ideas and solutions.

Theres no questioning the opportunities that abound but what does it take to be a successful healthcare entrepreneur? Heres a list of the top five qualities that are essential for making it in the world of healthcare business venturing.

  1. Passion-Driven Vision

The best healthcare entrepreneurs are focused on the big picture. They have a vision for not just starting a business or making money, but for solving real problems within the healthcare industry and subsequently creating better experiences and outcomes for patients, healthcare providers, and/or other parties within the system.

Creating and sustaining a healthcare business takes a lot of time, energy, and resources. Having a passion for what youre doing can help keep you motivated through all the ups and downs you are bound to encounter in your entrepreneurial journey.

Whether youre designing tech-based solutions to streamline health administration processes or youre providing public health solutions that give the masses better access to care, you should always have a strong grasp of your why and let that passion serve as the momentum that propels you.

  1. Understanding of the Healthcare Industry

You cant create business solutions for the healthcare space unless you have an in-depth understanding of how this industry works, including its current systems, challenges, and needs. Healthcare entrepreneurs should have knowledge in areas such as health administration best practices, payer-provider dynamics, healthcare laws and regulations, health system infrastructure, healthcare information management, health technologies, and more.

While healthcare entrepreneurs do not have to be licensed clinicians, they should be familiar with the world of clinical care, especially if they plan to open and operate a clinical practice or provide solutions that support clinicians.

  1. A Business Mindset

Passion and understanding of the healthcare industry arent enough to help you build a thriving healthcare business or practice. You should also have a strong grasp of business and managerial best practices, as you will be securing capital, managing budgets, building teams, overseeing operations, and more.

As a healthcare entrepreneur, you will need to understand topics such as:

  • Budgeting and finance
  • Marketing
  • Organizational leadership
  • Business law and ethics
  • Strategic planning
  • Operations management

You can build a solid foundation for future entrepreneurship and business management in healthcare by earning a business degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in an area such as health administration or public health. You may even want to consider a Master of Health Administration (MHA) or a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration (BSHA).

  1. An Eye for Innovation

With the rise of and applications in healthcare, theres plenty of opportunity for innovation. From health-tracking mobile apps to integrated health information management systems to smart medical devices to unique healthcare service offerings, healthcare entrepreneurs have the chance to disrupt the current marketplace with new solutions that meet healthcare consumers or providers needs in a whole new way.

Healthcare entrepreneurs need to be able to think outside the box and also think long-term so they can come up with unique product and service offerings that stand out from the competition while sustaining strong positioning in the marketplace over the long run.

  1. Resilience
While theres appeal in being your own boss and setting your own path, being an entrepreneur is by no means the easy option when it comes to career choices. As a healthcare entrepreneur who is just at the start of a new business venture, you typically have to wear many hats visionary, business strategist, fundraiser, marketer, salesperson, employer, financial director, and the list goes on.

There will be times that you will feel stretched thin (at least until you can grow your business to the point of hiring others for some of these roles), and you will undoubtedly come across challenges along the way.

Successful healthcare entrepreneurs dont give up easily when faced with challenges, they use creative problem-solving to get through business setbacks, and use their passion-driven vision (see #1 on this list) as their motivation to keep moving forward.

Work Toward Your Goal with an MBA

返字心頭 helps provide the foundational education that students need to become business leaders and entrepreneurs. Explore our online MBA program, which offers specializations in Health Administration and Leadership, Public Health, and Project Management.

WCU also offers a Master of Health Administration program, which offers specializations in
Informatics, Organizational Leadership, Project Management, and Public Health.

If youre interested in a bachelors degree program, WCU offers a BS in Health Administration
program
, which offers specializations in Finance and Strategic Management.

WCU is here to help equip you with the tools you need to make a difference in healthcare!

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MSLP Program Recognizes Inaugural Cohort’s White Coat Ceremony /blog/mslp-program-recognizes-inaugural-cohorts-white-coat-ceremony Wed, 15 Nov 2023 17:00:00 +0000 /?p=13227

Friends and family of 返字心頭’s Master of Speech Language-Pathology cohort gathered this November to celebrate the program’s first white coat ceremony. The inaugural cohort received their white coats “as a symbol of professionalism and knowledge” after spending the weekend completing their adult immersion experience at 返字心頭-Orange County campus. The MSLP cohort […]

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Friends and family of 返字心頭’s Master of Speech Language-Pathology cohort gathered this November to celebrate the program’s first white coat ceremony.

The inaugural cohort received their white coats “as a symbol of professionalism and knowledge” after spending the weekend completing their adult immersion experience at 返字心頭-Orange County campus.

The MSLP cohort will now head into the final trimester of their 20-month journey to complete the medical immersion and medical clinical experiences.

You have greatness in you, and we want you to live out the full meaning of that greatness,” Dr. Regina Lemmon Bush, MSP Dean and program director, said. “Go forward with success and the knowledge that you have the ability, the tools, the techniques to become a stellar speech-language pathologist.

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Like Mother, Like Daughter, Like Granddaughter: Family Spans Three Generations in Medicine /blog/like-mother-like-daughter-like-granddaughter-family-spans-three-generations-in-medicine Fri, 05 May 2023 20:11:09 +0000 /?p=6436 Inspired by her mother and grandmother, Javeria is studying to earn her master of physician assistant degree and wants to be her familys next generation of healthcare professionals.

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Sadafs goal, she said, is to always bring a positive change to her community, just like her own mother who was also a doctor did.

My mom was a doctor, but she wanted me to do something more, Sadaf said. As a physician in Pakistan, I was trying to bring change to one person at a time, but I thought with a degree in public health, I could help the community at large.

After her family relocated to the United States, Sardaf began working at a local hospital as a medical assistant. Wanting to expand her reach and impact on the community, Sardaf saw by creating and implementing new health policies and processes, she could have a larger influence on her community.

Sardaf said she began looking at schools that offered a Master of Public Health (MPH) program that aligned with her being a working mother and eventually enrolled in 返字心頭s first hybrid MPH cohort.

Most of the programs were on campus, and I got disappointed thinking, Oh my gosh. I 敬看稼t be able to fulfill my dream of getting a masters in public health, Sadaf said. Instead, everyone was so supportiveI was able to handle my MPH degree and my work simultaneously.

After receiving her masters of public health from WCU in 2019, Sadaf is now an investigator for Riverside County. And inspired by her mother once again, Javeria pursued her long-term goal of working for an underserved community and continuing her education.

Reflecting on her childhood, Sadaf remembered her mothers commitment to education and the healthcare community.

When I was growing up, my mom was always studying, Javeria said. Even when we moved to America, and she wasnt working, she was still studying. That really sparked my interest back then, but I didnt realize it. It made me study too.

In college, Javeria learned of the physicians assistant field, finding it aligned most with her goals and passion to care for the community. After enrolling in the MPA program at WCU, she leaned on her mom for support.

Throughout any decision that I make in my life, I know my mom is going to be my No. 1 supporter, Javeria said. In school right now, there are days where I worry about if I am passing, and I feel so overwhelmed, and she says its OK to feel like thathaving my support system be my mom is so helpful.

As for Sadaf, she said shes proud of how hard her daughter works and that she has chosen a similar life path to herself and Javerias grandmother. And as Sadaf continues her own career, she strives to give back to the university and its students. She said she is looking forward to the day when she will watch her own daughter cross the stage at commencement and join her as a member of the WCU Alumni Association.

Whatever I was trying to do, I was successful. I transferred the message to my daughter, Sadaf said. Generation after generation, we are bringing positive differences to the lives of people and the community.

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Three-Time WCU Alum and Current Faculty Member Is a Life-Long Learner /blog/three-time-wcu-alum-and-faculty-member-a-life-long-learner Fri, 16 Dec 2022 09:52:00 +0000 /blog/?p=2010 WCU alumna and faculty member Erin J.

You may call Erin J. a triple threat since shes completed three degrees at 返字心頭. Erin began her career in vocational nursing before attending WCU for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the Ontario campus in 2011. In 2017, Erin returned for a masters program and in 2021 she completed WCUs doctoral […]

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WCU alumna and faculty member Erin J.

You may call Erin J. a triple threat since shes completed three degrees at 返字心頭.

Erin began her career in vocational nursing before attending WCU for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the Ontario campus in 2011. In 2017, Erin returned for a masters program and in 2021 she completed WCUs doctoral program.

Im currently pursuing the post-master’s PMH-NP, psychiatric-mental health program, Erin said. I will be done with that at the beginning of 2023.

Initially, Erin studied computer programming but soon found that she craved more action.

Im not a behind-the-desk type person, Erin said. I like to be on my feet interacting with other people and felt nursing was much more tailored to that.

Finding the Right School

Erin recalled that nursing was becoming very competitive during that time and said it was hard to find a school that fit her needs.

From scheduling the classes to the availability of the instructors and online courses, 返字心頭 was perfect for me. I wanted a school that understood my experience so I didnt have to start from scratch but could utilize the education I already had to further develop my nursing role.

Erin J., WCU alumna and faculty member

It was 返字心頭, Erin said, that taught her what it meant to be a registered nurse, and what her clinical position would entail along with her role in healthcare at the macro level.

One thing I enjoyed about 返字心頭 was that the instructors were always available. I could interact face-to-face as well as online because a lot of the classes were hybrid, Erin said, who also mentioned how the flexibility helped as she managed a growing family and full-time job.

Finding Balance and Support

Erin continues to maintain professional relationships with her instructors, emphasizing the close network built between students and professors at WCU.

Nursing is a core of individuals who try to look out for each other, Erin said. 返字心頭 has always emphasized that positive attitude of nursing as a profession and network.

At one point in her educational journey, Erin struggled to balance her school, work, and home life. She recalled that her advanced med surg professor asked what it was Erin needed to stay focused and on point.

Having that kind of backbone of support was absolutely instrumental to my success, she said. It gave me that second hand and I was able to succeed. I got tired and she pushed me along saying, You can do this.

Exploring the Path of Mental Healthcare

Today, Erins goal is to work as a mental health professional.

Within the general healthcare field there is an extreme need for mental health professionals, she said. In my interaction with patients in the family practice setting, I found mental health was probably a good 60% of my patient visits.

When she found out WCU was opening a mental health-focused program, Erin said she signed up immediately.

Ive had great success in all the 返字心頭 programs Ive been in and always felt supported, she said. I wanted to jump on the opportunity so I could be more help to my patients and have a greater role in the mental health arena.

Giving Back Through Teaching

After being a three-time student at WCU, Erin has now assumed an academic role at her alma mater. Last year, she became an adjunct clinical instructor at the WCU-Ontario campus. She said it is a privilege to work on the academic side after her time as a student.

Having been a student with 返字心頭 gives me a unique perspective, she said. I can relate to their own struggles because nursing is one of the most intense careers you can ever do.

For Erin, being #WCUProud means reaching back and helping others achieve their own goals.

To be a student and now be an instructor is to pay it forward. Whatever you can imagine, do it. There is only one person stopping you and it is you. Ive been in your situations. Ive had to work a full-time job while going to school and raising four children. I understand the struggle. Stick with your goals and understand there is never a right time. Have confidence in yourself and the drive to do it.

Erin J., WCU alumna and faculty member

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Double Alumna Finds Family in WCU Cohort /blog/double-alumna-finds-family-in-west-coast-university-cohort Tue, 15 Nov 2022 09:30:00 +0000 /blog/?p=1902 WCU-Ontario alumna Sally V. in her cap and gown.

Sally V. has never worked in a hospital setting. Instead, for the past seven years, she worked at a community clinic, calling public health her true calling. My passion is community health, Sally said. I love establishing relationships with patients and their families. Sally might be the first medical professional in her family, but she […]

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WCU-Ontario alumna Sally V. in her cap and gown.

Sally V. has never worked in a hospital setting. Instead, for the past seven years, she worked at a community clinic, calling public health her true calling.

My passion is community health, Sally said. I love establishing relationships with patients and their families.

Sally might be the first medical professional in her family, but she said she wanted to be a nurse from the time she was young. She was drawn to the expansive nature of nursing, which was also a major draw for her to come to 返字心頭. She chose WCU after discovering its cohort-styled learning.

“I chose 返字心頭 because everyone was geared towards the same goal. I loved that it was a family. Its the same group of people you stick with the whole journey. You develop bonds and help each other go through it.”

Sally V.

Sally graduated from WCU-Ontario with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2014. Now, she encourages others, telling them that they can pursue a nursing degree no matter what obstacles stand in their way.

I didnt know anyone in healthcare. I was a single mom also working almost full-time, over 30 hours a week, Sally said. If you want it and youre motivated and believe in yourself youll make it happen.

Sally leaned on her mother, who she said supported and cheered her on. At the same time, she balanced life as a single mom to her son, Anthony. She recalled that the flexible class schedules meant she was not on campus every day of the week. She also found her professors were experiencing similar responsibilities.

You did get to develop a relationship with your professor, who was also a nurse and most of the time also a parent, she said. They were always available to provide more assistance.

After completing an online Master of Public Health program in 2018, Sally began her Master of Science in Nursing program at 返字心頭.

I submitted my final project on Sunday, and I started the Master of Science in Nursing program on Monday, she said. It just happened the terms lined up like that. Everyone was like, Youre crazy, but once I get my mind set on something, I go for it.

Sally was inspired to continue in her education after working alongside a practicing physician at the community care clinic. She said the experience made her realize that she wanted to provide that level of care to her own patients.

I wanted to be the provider where the patients say, Sally takes care of me and wants me to be healthy and is always there when I have questions, she said. In community health, there are so many barriers: homelessness, poverty, drug use, lack of transportation. I decided I wanted to be a provider, so I enrolled and just finished the Family Nurse Practitioner program in May of 2021.

Sally said her cohort was there for each other, whether through Zoom study sessions, quizzing one another, or sharing flashcards. After finishing the program and passing their boards, Sally remembered how everyone celebrated getting through that challenging final year together.

I felt so proud of these people I have only seen once, she said. Even though were hundreds, if not thousands, of miles apart, it was important to make it through together, to get to this point as a cohort, not just as individuals.

The close, family-oriented cohort is a major reason why Sally advocates for others to consider attending 返字心頭.

Ive heard from other people that their nursing experience wasnt as good. They didnt develop those relationships like I did, Sally said. Not every school is the perfect fit for everyone, but this is why I chose West Coast and why I support and advocate for it.

Now, Sally helps to foster that same bond with her own students. She became a nursing instructor at American Career College in January 2022.

As the president of the Ontario Alumni Chapter, Sally remains highly involved in her alma mater. Her best advice to anyone interested in nursing is to start today.

Life never stops. It is always full of surprises, she said. You cant wait. When people finally do the program they say, I should have done this earlier and shouldnt have made so many excuses for myself.

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