The Miramar Cultural Center was filled with excitement and pride this October as the friends and families of about 200 graduates from West Coast University gathered to celebrate their loved ones’ achievements. Graduates from various healthcare programs marked a pivotal moment in their careers, prepared to step into the healthcare field equipped with skills and experience.
Triumph and Reflection from the Valedictorian
Kayli T., the valedictorian of WCU-Miami’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, shared a deeply personal connection to her accomplishment. Her mother had predicted months in advance that Kayli would earn this honor. When the official news came, both mother and daughter celebrated the moment together.
“Today means everything to me. It shows what I’ve accomplished and all the things I’ve had to go through to get to where I am,” Kayli said. “It shows how hard I worked and how much effort I put into everything I’m about to start doing — my career, everything.”
A Milestone for Family Pride
For Lorelys A., another WCU-Miami BSN graduate, the moment carried even greater significance as the first member of her family to graduate from college.
“I did this basically for my parents. I’m the first to graduate college in my family, so I’m really happy about that. I’m very proud of it,” Lorelys shared. “My mom and dad always encouraged me to work hard… Watching myself put (my graduation robes on) in the bathroom, it made me emotional.”
A Journey of Unexpected Joy and Growth
Joanna O., who completed her Master of Science in Nursing–Family Nurse Practitioner program, found inspiration for her studies through her interactions with WCU alumni at her job in a stroke unit. Despite her busy schedule, Joanna said WCU offered the flexibility she needed through its online programs.
“The time comes, and it comes faster than you’re expecting it and faster than you ever think it’s going to happen,” she said. “I remember signing up for school, and I’m like, ‘Oh, it’s going to be 20-something months.’ It passes by so fast… Just enjoy it.”
Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience
For Anthoniel C., the road to graduation was deeply personal. Already a WCU alumnus with a BSN, he returned to earn his MSN as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Having missed his undergraduate graduation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, attending the master’s hooding ceremony was particularly meaningful to him.
“I want people to know that they can do it. It’s scary, but if you work hard, you can do it, and West Coast can give you the resources to do it,” Anthoniel encouraged.
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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