Jason D.’s journey into nursing began with a personal tragedy that left an indelible mark on his life.
“I remember that day was catastrophic for us as a family,” he recalled.
Nearly three years ago, Jason’s father passed away suddenly, leaving the family in a state of devastation. During this difficult time, the compassionate support from nurses profoundly changed him.
“I can’t help but thank them for everything, and that really kind of told me, ‘Hey, I want to go into nursing,’ and I want to be like those nurses that really took care of me and took care of my father during that time,” he said.
This experience solidified Jason’s decision to pursue a career in healthcare. In April 2022, he enrolled at West Coast University-Miami, drawn by its supportive and family-like environment.
“The minute I stepped foot on campus, I fell in love. Everybody here treated me like family,” he recounted.
Throughout his time at WCU, Jason found that the university’s culture of collaboration and support was instrumental in his success. He especially appreciated the close relationships he developed with both his professors and peers.
“It doesn’t become, ‘Hey, let me do this by myself,’” he said. “It’s, ‘Let’s all get through this together.’”
As the president of the Student Council (SAC), Jason embraced leadership roles, actively participated in community events and emphasized the importance of being engaged. For incoming students, Jason’s advice is to actively engage with the student body and use campus resources.
“The school is here to help you out. They really have people dedicated to just hearing you out, helping you figure out problems, and giving you that extra support,” he advised. “Once you’re involved, you have the opportunity to talk to other students that might be going through the same kind of obstacles that you’re going through,” he said.
Currently serving as a nurse extern at Kendall Regional Hospital, Jason feels well-prepared for his future. He credited WCU’s challenging yet supportive program for his readiness, affirming, Jason’s ambition is to work in a trauma ICU, where he aims to provide exceptional care and support to patients and their families.
“I want to be that person, that nurse that a family can lean on, a patient can lean on,” he said. “I feel prepared. I’m ready.”
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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