Working Mom Turned Life Experience into Career Success as Texas Nurse 

For Debbie Lee S., balancing the demands of nursing school while raising children was no small feat. As a full-time student and full-time mom, Debbie Lee brought a level of maturity and resilience to her studies that helped her stand out in a competitive field. 

“As a mother, a wife, and an employee, we also need to be recognized,” she said. “I believe this field of nursing and wanting to pursue your career in nursing — there is a place for us.” 

That place, for her, was West Coast University-Texas, where she leaned into a strong support system and found her confidence. “The foundation was fitting into West Coast, and I fit in perfect here,” Debbie Lee said. “I got the support that I needed here to fulfill my dreams and my children’s dreams.” 

From Clinicals to Confidence 

Debbie Lee’s previous work as a patient care technician gave her a leg up when entering clinicals and simulation training but even with experience, there was still a learning curve. 

“In the beginning, SIM was like, ‘OK, this is so weird,’” she said with a laugh. “But after a few rotations, it warmed me up. I let go. I talk as if the patient was actually a real patient… Now when I’m at clinicals, I move like an expert.” 

She credited her comfort and preparedness to the instructors who guided her through SIM labs, helping her transform classroom learning into clinical confidence. 

Persistence Pays Off 

Debbie Lee’s job search was anything but easy. After attending over 20 interviews with little success, she took matters into her own hands. 

“I said to myself, ‘I’m going to step out and I’m going to be Debbie, and I’m going to be bold,’” she said. 

That boldness paid off. By the end of her clinical rotations, she had multiple interviews at hospitals. One even came from a chance elevator conversation with a manager who later conducted her formal job interview. 

“It didn’t feel like an interview,” she said. “It was more like she’s getting to know me.” 

Looking Ahead 

With a new job, a soon-to-close house, and plans to eventually pursue her master’s degree, Debbie Lee’s journey is far from over. But for now, she’s enjoying the moment — and encouraging others to believe in themselves too. 

“You may not see it right now,” she said, “but the support is there every step of the way.” 

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.