Recent West Coast University-Texas graduate Jemima O.’s journey to her nursing pinning was far from easy. She had faced an academic suspension at a previous school, a setback that many might have seen as the end of their dreams. Yet, for Jemima, it was the start of a new chapter. Encouraged by a friend who praised West Coast University’s hands-on approach and robust support system, she decided to give nursing school another shot.
“I’m so excited,” Jemima shared. “It’s been a long time coming… a lot of bumps, but it’s all worth it.”
Jemima’s passion for nursing began in middle school with a desire to care for babies, and it deepened further after losing her grandmother in 2020.
“She passed from an asthma attack in Nigeria, and my mom always said she didn’t feel supported,” Jemima recalled.
This experience fueled her commitment to becoming a nurse who truly listens and cares for her patients, extending that care to families, too.
“Nursing is way more than giving meds or helping patients rehab. It’s caring for the individual, getting to their level, and building a patient-nurse relationship,” she said. “I want to be that nurse that listens … that’s my goal, to really listen to the patient and let them tell me what to do.”
Throughout her time at West Coast University, Jemima pushed herself beyond her comfort zone. Initially shy, she embraced roles like being a PAL tutor and work-study student, which helped her grow both professionally and personally. Her professors and peers provided the encouragement and resources she needed, enabling her to transform from a struggling student into one on the Dean’s List.
“It was a huge move from Houston to Dallas for school, especially because I wasn’t successful in my other school. I came from somewhere very low. I came from a place where I was basically academically suspended, and then I was getting A’s and was on the Dean’s List,” Jemima said. “And my professors are a big reason for that. There’s a lot of moments that you might feel like you can’t do it but to see that I’m here now is unbelievable.”
Having just passed her NCLEX exam, Jemima feels prepared and confident for her career ahead.
“I’ve been taught the skills and critical thinking… I think I’m ready,” she said.
Her advice to future students is simple but powerful: “Use your resources… be vocal about what you’re dealing with… keep going.”
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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