WCU BSHA Grad Balanced Family, Work, and School — And Sets Her Sights on Pharmacy School 

For Hilda S., earning her bachelor of science in health administration (BSHA) from West Coast University wasn’t just a steppingstone, it was a major achievement in a life defined by determination and care for others. 

“I’ve been a pharmacy tech for about 10 years now,” she said. “I love what I do. I work in a clinic, an oncology center… just trying to provide better patient care if I can in the middle of me trying to get my pharmacy degree.” 

Hilda chose WCU for its flexibility, a key factor as she balanced two jobs, parenting, and full-time school. 

“For people who have families, who have busy schedules, it’s more convenient,” she said. “You can do it at your pace, and you don’t have to worry about, ‘I have to be in class at this time.’ I enjoyed it.” 

Her long-term plan is to enter PharmD school, ideally, at West Coast University. 

“That’s the goal,” she said. “It was more initially just to kind of get my degree and then see where I can go from there. But I love pharmacy, and I feel like I can’t leave it.” 

Even with years of healthcare experience, the program still brought challenges mostly outside the classroom. 

“It was more like my home life,” she said. “Trying to balance my kids, my schoolwork. I was working two jobs, going to school full-time. But the school being online it made it a lot easier.” 

Despite never having stepped on a WCU campus, support from the faculty made a lasting impression on Hilda. 

“I had a lot of instructors, even though I had never met them in person, they were there when I needed something,” she said. “When I would get overwhelmed and stressed, they were there to ease that stress.” 

Her advice to future students is direct. 

“Try to do it as early as you can,” she said. “And just find something that you love — because if you don’t love it, then you’re not going to do well in it.” 

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.