Each year from May 6-12, National Nurses Week marks a time to recognize the extraordinary individuals who are the backbone of our healthcare system: nurses. At West Coast University, National Nurses Week is more than a celebration. It’s a moment to reflect on the passion, resilience, and commitment shown by WCU students, alumni, and faculty every single day.
The American Nurses Association (ANA) has chosen the 2025 theme for Nurses Week: “Nurses Make the Difference.” WCU couldn’t agree more. From bedside care to leadership roles and beyond, nurses continue to shape the future of healthcare — and many of them start that journey right here at West Coast University.
Nurses Make the Difference In Both Big and Small Ways
WCU students and alumni are proof that nursing isn’t only a profession… it’s a calling. Yes, they make an incredible difference in patient outcomes, but they also leave a lasting impact in the lives of patients’ families, communities, and themselves.
Take Diana, a recent WCU alum who found her confidence and calling in nursing while following in her mother’s footsteps. Her journey wasn’t always easy, but through dedication and the support of her peers, she turned her passion into purpose. “I wanted to care for people the same way my mom did,” she shared. “Now I get to do that every day.”
Read more of Diana’s story: WCU Alum Finds Confidence and Meaning in Nursing Career While Following in Mother’s Footsteps
Finding Purpose and Pushing Through
For many WCU students, nursing is more than just a dream, it’s a mission fueled by life experience. Gisselle, a first-generation WCU Miami graduate, doubled down on time management and academic discipline to complete an accelerated nursing program and achieve her goal of becoming a pediatric registered nurse. Her story is one of perseverance, representing the strength and determination that so many of WCU students bring to the classroom and the clinical setting.
Read more of Gisselle’s story: First-Generation WCU Miami Graduate Achieves Dream of Becoming a Nurse
Strength, Resilience, and a Deep Desire to Help Others
Katy’s story is a powerful reminder of the healing power of nursing, not only for patients, but for the nurse themselves. A single mom and cancer survivor, Katy found renewed purpose in nursing through WCU’s Texas BSN program. “After going through my own health struggles, I wanted to be the person who could make someone else’s day better,” she said.
Read more of Katy’s story: Single Mom and Cancer Survivor Finds New Purpose in Nursing at WCU Texas
Every Nurse Has a “Why”
WCU encourages students to find and hold tight to their “why” — the reason they chose this demanding, yet deeply rewarding path. For Ericka, the BSN cohort speaker at WCU-Ontario, that “why” came from a deep desire to give back after experiencing personal loss. Her message to fellow students was clear: “This profession requires heart, but if you lead with compassion, you will change lives.”
Read more of Ericka’s story: WCU Ontario BSN Cohort Speaker Shares Inspiring ‘Why’ Behind Nursing
Growing a Nursing Career Online
Nurses are lifelong learners, and at WCU, many students continue their education beyond the BSN. Our online nursing programs are designed to support working nurses who want to advance their education on their terms. Whether you’re pursuing an RN to BSN or earning an MSN in a specialized field, WCU offers flexible, student-focused programs to help you grow.
Nikolas N. is one example of what’s possible with determination and support. After completing his BSN at WCU, Nikolas enrolled in our online MSN – FNP program. As a pediatric intensive care nurse, he wanted to expand his knowledge and impact, especially in leadership and evidence-based practice. “The online format made it manageable with my work schedule, and the program was incredibly engaging,” he said.
Read more of Nikolas’s story: WCU BSN Grad Takes Next Step as MSN-FNP
Tips From Nurses Who’ve Been There
Whether you’re a current student or considering a future in nursing, the path ahead can be challenging. But you’re not alone. WCU BSN alumni have shared seven tips for future nursing students, from staying organized to never being afraid to ask for help.
Celebrating You Today and Every Day
To all the nurses in the WCU community: thank you! You make a difference with every patient you comfort, every life you save, and every challenge you rise above.
If you’re inspired by these stories and feel called to make a difference, West Coast University offers Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs designed to help you advance your education with confidence. With no waitlist for the Texas BSN and Miami BSN programs, hands-on training in industry-current labs, and support from day one through graduation, WCU is here to help you further your nursing journey.
If you’re looking for more flexibility in your education, consider one of our online nursing programs. The next step in your educational journey is just around the corner.
Happy National Nurses Week 2025 from WCU!
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.
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