Making the decision to move across the country for school isn’t easy — but for three West Coast University nursing students, relocating from California opened doors to opportunity, community, and rewarding careers in healthcare. Their journeys to Texas and Florida show how the right environment can help future nurses thrive.
Courtney’s Journey: From Compton to WCU-Texas
After more than a decade as a licensed vocational nurse, Courtney W. felt called to take the next step in her nursing career. That meant leaving Compton, California, and moving to Texas with her daughter to earn her bachelor of science in nursing at WCU-Texas.
“I gave up everything in California and came to Texas, me and my daughter,” Courtney shared. “The support, the resources, if I was struggling with any type of topic, the teachers were right there ready to help me. I knew why I came to Texas. I came for education.”
Her move paid off. Through clinical experience and dedicated faculty mentorship, Courtney not only completed her degree but also secured a position in a Dallas hospital’s transplant unit residency program.
Esther’s Move: Choosing Texas for a Fresh Start
For Esther N., the decision to relocate from California to Texas came after learning about the benefits of attending WCU out of state.
“I originally heard about West Coast University from California because that’s where I was living previously. And then I decided to move to Texas,” she said. “Overall, I’m just glad that I chose West Coast because the campus is beautiful, the staff is friendly, everybody treats you with love, and I’m glad I was a student of West Coast.”
Esther’s story highlights how relocation can offer not just an education, but also a welcoming environment that supports both academic and personal growth.
Jordyn’s Adventure: Driving to WCU-Miami
Not all relocations stop in Texas. Jordyn S. packed her car and drove across the country from California to Miami, ready for a bold change.
“I like change, hence why I packed my car up and moved to Miami from California,” she said. “Knowing that I’m going to get to pursue a career doing something I’m extremely passionate about, that is the thing that reminds me it’s worth it.”
Her advice to other future nurses? “Do it. Take the risk. Totally worth it. You’ll never get to experience and achieve things that are scary if you don’t take a risk.”
Why Relocation Can Transform a Nursing Career
Courtney, Esther, and Jordyn each faced the challenges of leaving home, adjusting to a new city, and committing to the rigorous demands of nursing school. But their stories show that with the right university, relocation can be the first step toward a rewarding career.
Whether it’s WCU-Texas with its close-knit community or WCU-Miami with its vibrant atmosphere, West Coast University campuses provide the resources, mentorship, and clinical opportunities that prepare nursing students to succeed anywhere.
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.