Meet the Grad: Derek Mullins

{"ItemType":0,"Id":3626,"Key":"dfedc851-cd0f-4086-a01c-b4cb49060221","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":22,"Name":"Meet Derek.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3626","CreateDate":"2025-05-05T15:56:13","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-derek","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-derek/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Summersville, WV ","mainContent":"<h2>What made you consider nursing as a program of study?</h2>\r\n<p>What made me choose nursing was the ability to care for others in a unique way that others cannot. To say you made a difference in someone's life that will always be remembered is a great deal. As a nurse, the patients we have are usually eager to learn about their conditions, and with that, I can educate them and provide personalized care for them. Nursing is a career that is continually growing; with that, as a nurse, so is your knowledge.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose the WVU School of Nursing? </h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU School of Nursing due to its comprehensive study plan and individualized learning plan. At WVU School of Nursing, the program takes a longer route than others. This allows us to learn a topic thoroughly over classroom and clinical time.</p>\r\n<h2>Could you share a positive experience from your time at the SON?</h2>\r\n<p>During my time at SON, I was able to meet and bond with great classmates and staff within our university.</p>\r\n<p>Some clinical experiences that were rewarding for me were being able to shadow in the operating room at Plateau Medical Center. During this clinical experience, I was paired with an OR nurse who took the time to teach about their OR rooms. I helped the patients we had by putting SCDs on them and learning medications from the CRNA in that case. With that, he allowed me to stand behind the patient, where I learned about his type of work and the opportunities nursing provides us.</p>\r\n<p>Another was being able to shadow an open-heart surgery, where I could witness ECMO being used and the harvesting of the saphenous vein, which was later placed in the patient's heart to bypass one of their coronary arteries.</p>\r\n<h2>What's one piece of advice you would give your freshman self?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy your moments and experiences now because they will be an excellent time for your educational growth. Join WVU Tech Trio and Student Success Services sooner.</p>\r\n<h2>What are your plans after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>I have accepted a position at Raleigh General Hospital Cath Lab. In the future of my nursing career, I hope to obtain my master's and doctorate degrees.</p>\r\n<h2>How do you feel WVU prepared you for your next chapter?</h2>\r\n<p>I am well prepared for my future endeavors; my professors took the time to help shape my future in nursing. From the coursework and clinicals I have obtained with classmates, I feel very well equipped to be a part of a team while managing my patients' condition.</p>\r\n<h2>Is there anything else you'd like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to take the time to thank my family and friends for pushing me to reach this goal. I am excited to see what the future holds for me. I thank my professors for providing me with an excellent and broad education. I cannot wait to put my clinical skills to the test.</p>","fullName":"Derek Mullins","campus":747,"pullQuote":"I am well prepared for my future endeavors; my professors took the time to help shape my future in nursing. From the coursework and clinicals I have obtained with classmates, I feel very well equipped to be a part of a team while managing my patients' condition.","photo":{"src":"/media/75191/derek-wvu.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.5,"top":0.5},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":1872,"Key":"d8943512-669b-4591-bcbe-98954c0c4b05","TemplateId":1871,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Bachelor of Science","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNUndergraduateProgram","DocumentTypeId":3026,"WriterName":"wlh00001","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":29,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1865,1872","CreateDate":"2017-03-17T11:01:01","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T12:01:08","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"bachelor-of-science","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"PDF documents should not load in a new window (see https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/website-content-guide/creation/links/#when-should-a-link-open-in-a-new-tab-or-window?). Please adjust the link for “progression plans”. - (JN 6/26/18)","auditStatus":"Updated","testimonialProfile":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3679,"Key":"2a4d1334-f6f0-4f9e-ada5-adfbb3f69640","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":3,"Name":"Meet Laicey.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3679","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:46:36","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laicey","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laicey/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-10-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Princeton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Losing my father suddenly made me realize how fragile life truly is. I feel called to not just care for patients, but to show compassion and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. That experience became my purpose — to form loss into motivation by caring for others the way I once needed myself.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>To me, the pledge ceremony is a rite of passage in nursing school, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey to uphold the responsibility of helping those in need. I believe today is a moment when our academic career shifts us into caregivers, and our education allows us to fulfill the need to serve others.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I hope to start my nursing career in the Emergency Department at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. Since beginning my career in emergency medicine, I am nothing short of fascinated and unconditionally dedicated to a fast-paced environment where teamwork and emergent actions can save lives.</p>","fullName":"Laicey Necessary","campus":746,"pullQuote":"I chose WVU SON because it offers state-of-the-art education and technology to improve students’ clinical experience and leadership, both through HSC and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would challenge me academically while also providing personal support whenever needed. The faculty’s commitment to their students, both inside and outside of the classroom, makes WVU feel like home, where encouragement is always surrounding you.","photo":{"src":"/media/75247/dsc03121.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.48846153846153845,"top":0.38846153846153847},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3678,"Key":"a220b3c6-c475-4005-b963-6221dc8c4cf0","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Meet Raynee.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3678","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:42:03","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-raynee","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-raynee/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Crab Orchard, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony was one of the things I have been looking forward to since high school. To me, it was an introduction to the study of nursing and from this point on I pledge to be the best nurse that I can be.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>The opportunities that this school offers in not only education but also in the community are something that I felt was irreplaceable.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation I plan to be a travel nurse. Once I finish traveling, I would like to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner. </p>","fullName":"Raynee Gonzalez","campus":747,"pullQuote":"Since I was young, I’ve always known that I wanted to be a nurse. Being able to advocate and to make a difference for people is something that is important in today's healthcare environment and especially important to me.","photo":{"src":"/media/75246/screenshot-2025-10-21-at-113701-am.png","focalPoint":{"left":0.50769230769230766,"top":0.37681159420289856},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3677,"Key":"81f3fd15-36d8-4a1c-a35a-dd024d325a28","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":5,"Name":"Meet Peyton.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3677","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T11:35:20","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-peyton","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-peyton/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2028-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Romney, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to be a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I want to be a nurse because I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and attentive care can make. Last year when my brother suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, the nurses that cared for him not only supported his recovery but also supported my family through an incredibly difficult time. Their dedication inspired me deeply.</p>\r\n<p>Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.</p>\r\n<h2>What does the Pledge Ceremony mean to you?</h2>\r\n<p>The Pledge Ceremony means a lot to me because it marks the beginning of my journey as a nurse. It is a reminder of the promise I am making, not only to myself but to my future patients as well. It is a reminder to uphold compassion, integrity, and commitment every shift. To me, it is not just words but a symbol of the kind of nurse I want to become.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>I chose the WVU School of Nursing at Potomac State College because it allows me to earn a strong, respected nursing degree close to home while being financially manageable. It gives me the support of my community and family while preparing me for a successful nursing career.</p>\r\n<h2>What do you hope to do after graduation?</h2>\r\n<p>After graduation, I am still exploring my options, but I am strongly leaning toward working in either the NICU or labor and delivery. I have always loved babies since I was a child, and I feel a deep calling to care for those who need the most attention and support. The NICU especially draws me because it allows me to make a difference in the earliest and most fragile stages of life.</p>\r\n<p>At the same time, labor and delivery is very appealing to me because I want to support mothers of all backgrounds during on the of the most important and emotional times in their lives. Whether it is providing reassurance, celebrating milestones, or helping through challenges, I want to be there for both mothers and babies.</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add.</h2>\r\n<p>I would just like to add how grateful I am for my husband, family, friends, and professors on this journey. The care my brother received continues to inspire me, and I hope to carry that same compassion into my own nursing career. I am honored to take this pledge today with my fellow determined, intelligent, and supportive peers. I am so excited to keep learning, growing and becoming the kind of nurse that patients and families can truly depend on.</p>","fullName":"Peyton Duncan-Wolford","campus":748,"pullQuote":"Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I would often say, “I want to help people.” Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out that passion every day. I want to be able to provide the same kind of care, comfort, and encouragement that those nurses gave my family, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others when they need it most.","photo":{"src":"/media/75245/peyton2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.49615384615384617,"top":0.34246575342465752},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3676,"Key":"d31b06c6-45c8-4d16-8623-0a8b78d2bded","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":6,"Name":"Meet Ashley.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3676","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:51:12","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ashley","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ashley/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2027-12-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Chicago, IL","mainContent":"<h2 class=\"p3\">Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I want to be a nurse because growing up I always knew I wanted to choose a career that was rewarding and fulfilling. Nursing not only contributes to making the community feel better but it can allow me to make a difference.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">I wanted to become an ambassador because I am able to be a stronger part of the School of Nursing. I also know that I had many questions before admission into the program and I love being able to help students who were in the same position as me.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The School of Nursing is a great program for various reasons — one of them being how hands on the learning experience is. Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">My best advice for high school students interested in nursing is to build your time management skills. Through using planners, calendars, and making a study schedule, you are able to stay on top of your assignments early. This skill is very beneficial in nursing school because it allows you to balance the school workload and recreational activities.</p>\r\n<h2 class=\"p3\">Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p class=\"p3\">The nursing program here at WVU is a great program. There are so many resources to help you succeed that include tutoring and well-being workshops. The faculty is always rooting for you and wants you to succeed. This is why choosing the SON is one of the best decisions I made as a student here.</p>","fullName":"Ashley Hansen","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Through the skills lab and our clinical rotations, we are able to learn through physically practicing what we learn in the classroom. This hands on way of learning is not only more engaging but it is more beneficial for retention.","photo":{"src":"/media/75244/dsc00017-2.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.50115473441108549,"top":0.42032332563510394},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3675,"Key":"f0428d9e-af59-4a3d-922a-5b4600dc4e4b","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":7,"Name":"Meet Ryan.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3675","CreateDate":"2025-10-21T10:42:02","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-ryan","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-ryan/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"2026-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Littlestown, PA","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I consider myself to be a social and caring person. I love making a person’s day better, especially when they are going through something rough. I have always had an interest in science and anatomy as well.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>Being a senior nursing student, I wanted to make sure all the potential new nursing students got a great understanding of what this school is about and what it takes to be in the school of nursing. I also have a great relationship with many nursing professors and thought it would be a fun opportunity for me.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Cramming for exams is a lot harder to do in nursing school. It is a much better idea to spread out studying over multiple days in smaller increments. This also helps you with time management skills!</p>\r\n<h2>Anything else you’d like to add?</h2>\r\n<p>Although challenging sometimes, nursing school has been a great experience! The friendships I have made along the way with other nursing students and faculty are some of best relationships I have ever made since they understand what you go through every day.</p>","fullName":"Ryan Alisauckas","campus":746,"pullQuote":"You will, without a doubt, be prepared for your real job after graduation. Nursing school can be challenging sometimes, but every mistake in school makes you a better nurse!","photo":{"src":"/media/75243/dsc00051.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46189376443418012,"top":0.38313253012048193},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3674,"Key":"b7a40d45-ac44-406f-9740-2ab46607e138","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":8,"Name":"Meet Laci.","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3674","CreateDate":"2025-10-06T21:47:53","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-laci","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-laci/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"","expectedGraduationDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Hinton, WV","mainContent":"<h2>Why do you want to become a nurse?</h2>\r\n<p>I have always enjoyed learning about the medical field and knew I wanted to do something in medicine. My younger brother faced some health challenges in his early years, so I spent some time in hospitals with him, and there were also several children in my community who faced battles with leukemia within a period of 6 years. One thing that all of these cases had in common was the stories of the healthcare workers who made their visits to the hospital less frightening. I always knew that, regardless of the field I entered, I wanted to be one of those people who made patients feel more at ease while in the hospital.</p>\r\n<h2>Why did you want to become an ambassador?</h2>\r\n<p>I wanted to become an ambassador because I genuinely love nursing school. I love talking about our program and how it has helped to shape me into the person I am. You hear a lot of negative things about nursing school on social media, and I wanted to be a positive voice for future students to let them know that, while it is challenging, it is so rewarding.</p>\r\n<h2>What would you like prospective nursing students to know about the WVU School of Nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>One of the things that I would tell prospective nursing students about the WVU SON is how it sets you up for success. Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience. The program can be challenging, but I truly believe that it helps you become the best version of yourself, both academically and professionally.</p>\r\n<h2>What’s your best advice for high schoolers interested in nursing?</h2>\r\n<p>Enjoy high school!! Nursing school applications can seem very daunting at times, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Take time to explore different hobbies and hang out with your friends. Nursing school will come soon enough.</p>","fullName":"Laci Sears","campus":746,"pullQuote":"Not only do we have state-of-the-art simulation labs, but we also have faculty who truly care about your success in the program. Our program has a great mix of hands-on and classroom experiences that help you grow as a student and a future RN. You’re gaining confidence and developing critical thinking skills with every class and clinical experience.","photo":{"src":"/media/75242/dsc00046.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.51867219917012453,"top":0.37344398340248963},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":null},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":null}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]},{"ItemType":0,"Id":3631,"Key":"b6ca92c6-1f68-48fd-a0d4-20c4e01b2d36","TemplateId":1856,"SortOrder":17,"Name":"Meet Zyiah & Zakiah","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNStudentProfile","DocumentTypeId":2467,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"wlh00001","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":29,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,1859,3631","CreateDate":"2025-05-06T10:38:19","UpdateDate":"2025-10-21T13:00:34","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"meet-zyiah-zakiah","Level":4,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/profiles/meet-zyiah-zakiah/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":false,"pageTitle":"","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"","umbracoNaviHideChildren":false,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":false,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":"","pronouns":"","profileVideoURL":"https://youtu.be/EhOBK_KCUNE?si=82gAZrjoNTEwBUYw","expectedGraduationDate":"2025-05-01T00:00:00","hometown":"Fairmont, WV","mainContent":"<p>When Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey walked into their first class at the West Virginia University School of Nursing, they didn’t just sit down as students. They sat down as sisters, best friends and future nurses—ready to begin a journey they had dreamed about together for years.</p>\r\n<p>Now, the Fairmont, West Virginia, natives are preparing to graduate with their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, their shared dream nearly realized.</p>\r\n<p>“We always knew we wanted to go into labor and delivery,” Zakiah said. “We didn’t know exactly how—whether as physicians or nurses—but we knew we wanted to become midwives.”</p>\r\n<p>That clarity didn’t come from a textbook. It came from childhood experiences surrounded by kids, a tight-knit family, and a deep admiration for their aunt, a nurse. It also came from encouragement and opportunity—especially through the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA), a statewide mentorship program that helped set them on the path to WVU.</p>\r\n<p>“We actually wanted to go out of state to New York,” Zyiah said. “But it was the best financial decision to come to WVU. If we were going to go anywhere in West Virginia because of our HSTA waiver, we obviously wanted it to be here.”</p>\r\n<p>The Bailey twins found more than affordability—they found structure, clarity and support in a program that felt made for them.</p>\r\n<p>“We’re both super type A,” Zakiah added. “It was so easy to find information about the WVU nursing program. Everything was organized and it made planning really easy for us.”</p>\r\n<p>Their time in the David and Jo Ann Shaw Simulation Training and Education for Patient Safety (STEPS) Center also made a lasting impact, giving them confidence through hands-on learning.</p>\r\n<p>“We spent most of our sophomore year in the STEPS lab,” Zyiah said. “It was helpful being with our peers, learning together and not having to worry about hurting anyone.”</p>\r\n<p>“Learning how to insert IVs, vitals—just being able to do things over and over again until it felt right—that was huge,” Zakiah said. “You could mess up, fix it and keep going.”</p>\r\n<p>Despite their closeness, Zyiah and Zakiah were placed in different clinical groups—an intentional decision to help them grow independently. Still, they leaned on each other every step of the way.</p>\r\n<p>“We always had someone to bounce things off of,” Zakiah said. “We studied together. And if one of us didn’t understand something, usually the other did.”</p>\r\n<p>Mentorship played a critical role, too. Both sisters credit Kelly Lemon, assistant professor and clinical instructor for their OB class, as someone who helped shape their experience and inspire their path.</p>\r\n<p>“She’s a midwife, and we shadowed her,” Zakiah said. “She is the best teacher ever—kind, competent and so intentional in her patient care.”</p>\r\n<p>Beyond the classroom, the sisters built a strong circle of support. Their closest friends include Ella, a fellow nursing student from Fairmont, and part of what became an inseparable group of five.</p>\r\n<p>Now, as graduation approaches, the Baileys are already looking ahead. They’ve applied and accepted roles to work at WVU Medicine in the birthing center.</p>\r\n<p>“We had such a versatile clinical experience,” Zyiah said. “So we thought, why not apply to multiple places and see what fits best?”</p>\r\n<p>Their long-term plan is to return to school to earn dual certification as women’s health nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives.</p>\r\n<p>But this moment—this milestone—is also about honoring someone who won’t be in the audience on graduation day.</p>\r\n<p>“Our pawpaw just passed away almost a month ago,” Zyiah said. “He was always pushing us to finish school. We’re dedicating our graduation and our degrees to him. He helped us be proud of it.”</p>\r\n<p>And proud they are. Of each other. Of the work. Of the journey.</p>\r\n<p>“It’s surreal,” Zakiah said. “We’re just ready for the next step. We feel like nurses already—and now we get to be.”</p>","fullName":"Zyiah and Zakiah Bailey ","campus":746,"pullQuote":"","photo":{"src":"/media/75196/twins-screenshot.jpg","focalPoint":{"left":0.46683673469387754,"top":0.44796380090497739},"crops":[{"alias":"landscape-large","width":2000,"height":1125,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-medium","width":1200,"height":675,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"landscape-small","width":600,"height":337,"coordinates":{"x1":0.0,"y1":0.0014814814814814814,"x2":0.0,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-large","width":720,"height":1080,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29249999999999976,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33250000000000057,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-medium","width":320,"height":480,"coordinates":{"x1":0.29374999999999973,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.33125000000000054,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-555x740","width":555,"height":740,"coordinates":{"x1":0.2675,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.310625,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"portrait-300x400","width":300,"height":400,"coordinates":{"x1":0.26296875000000025,"y1":0.0000000000000009947598300641,"x2":0.31515624999999931,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-1000","width":1000,"height":1000,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18624999999999983,"y1":0.000000000000000884230960057,"x2":0.25125000000000064,"y2":0.0}},{"alias":"square-500","width":500,"height":500,"coordinates":{"x1":0.18875,"y1":0.0,"x2":0.24875,"y2":0.0}}]},"introductionBlurb":"","programOfStudy":[{}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]}],"applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Application Information\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9963381c14374ed0b68f447835c7706e\"}]","tuition":[{"ItemType":0,"Id":3305,"Key":"f2a347c6-e719-46b1-8457-ab3b2ef0be89","TemplateId":3306,"SortOrder":4,"Name":"Tuition","DocumentTypeAlias":"soNTuition","DocumentTypeId":3304,"WriterName":"WVU HSC ITS","CreatorName":"jnn0006","WriterId":0,"CreatorId":23,"Path":"-1,1812,1844,3305","CreateDate":"2023-02-16T14:33:04","UpdateDate":"2023-04-18T11:29:30","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","UrlName":"tuition","Level":3,"IsDraft":false,"Url":"/students/tuition/","metaKeywords":"","hideFromSearch":true,"pageTitle":"Tuition","navigationSettings":"","umbracoUrlName":"","metaDescription":"","navigationTitle":"Tuition","umbracoNaviHideChildren":true,"seoSettings":"","umbracoRequireSSL":false,"umbracoNaviHide":true,"auditNotes":"","auditStatus":""}],"summary":"The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by health care agencies as providing students with excellent preparation for the nursing profession. Graduates are in great demand and enjoy a large number of career opportunities. Our BSN pass rates for first-time test takers on the national licensure exam on the Morgantown Campus in 2023 was 100%.","programFormat":1268,"campuses":["Morgantown","Beckley","Keyser"],"mainContent":"<p>The BSN program is offered on WVU's Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses. The Morgantown Campus also offers an Expedited Summer Pathway* option. </p>\r\n<p>The curriculum includes courses in humanities, social sciences, basic sciences and nursing science. These courses are taken in conjunction with nursing clinical courses. Students apply their learning to actual client, family and community situations that warrant nursing intervention. In keeping with the University's commitment to improving health care for all West Virginians, all health sciences students complete a rural clinical practice as part of the degree requirements. Nursing students complete rural clinical practice experience during their senior year.</p>\r\n<p>Throughout the academic and clinical experiences, students will focus on the five core competencies that provide the framework for the BSN curriculum, including critical thinking, nursing interventions, professional role, caring, and communication which are outlined in more detail in our <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/resources/student-handbooks/\">Student Handbook</a>. </p>\r\n<p>Want to learn more about the benefits of a BSN program? Watch the video below:</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWOn6d343tc\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Progression Plans</h2>\r\n<p>Depending on when you are admitted to the BSN program, the progression plan you follow in your time at WVU can vary slightly. Please view the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/003ba80a974c437da932d53354cc82d0\" href=\"/media/75181/bsn-progression-plan_fall-2025_03122025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan_Fall 2025_03.12.2025\">Morgantown BSN progression plan</a>, the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/fe0c1e0b14204eee81f7c3a3544e4353\" href=\"/media/75187/bsn-progression-plan_beckley-campus_03102025.pdf\" title=\"BSN Progression Plan Beckley 3.10.2025\">Beckley Campus BSN progression plan</a> or the <a data-udi=\"umb://media/eb7588f24a284ed5b91e27cc0f69177c\" href=\"/media/75184/wvusonpsc-bsn-progression-updated-2025-2026.pdf\" title=\"WVUSONPSC BSN Progression UPDATED 2025-2026\">Keyser Campus BSN progression plan</a> for more information. The BSN program is six semesters of clinical nursing courses after completion of all pre-requisite courses.</p>\r\n<h3>*Expedited Summer Pathway</h3>\r\n<p>The Expedited Summer Pathway offers Morgantown students accepted into the BSN program an opportunity to graduate nine months early by completing two summer semesters.</p>\r\n<p>Students must have already completed their freshman year of prerequisite coursework to apply for the expedited pathway with the WVU School of Nursing. Expedited Summer Pathway participants remain eligible for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as the traditional pathway.</p>\r\n<p>To learn more, please contact Phillip Engelkemier, Director of Recruitment, at phillip.engelkemier@hsc.wvu.edu.</p>\r\n<h2>Simulation Experience</h2>\r\n<p>We offer the opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art simulation <a href=\"https://www.hsc.wvu.edu/steps/\">facilities</a> where they practice patient care without fear of jeopardizing patient safety.</p>\r\n<?UMBRACO_MACRO macroAlias=\"EmbeddedVideo\" Url=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7H9bzVbB8k&t=1s\" showDescription=\"0\" />\r\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>\r\n<p>View a full list of <a data-udi=\"umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c\" href=\"/{localLink:umb://document/c3b1ab996ebe456487f8fd713578e94c}\" title=\"Nursing Admission FAQs\">frequently asked questions</a> and answers for nursing admission. You can also watch a recording of the most recent <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\" data-anchor=\"?v=JhcS_7U-eXE\">BSN Virtual Open House</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</h2>\r\n<p>As a student entering the BSN program at the sophomore level in the WVU School of Nursing, you will be among a group of students participating in the WVU Health Sciences Student Computer Program*. You will have access to computer resources to assist you in your studies, including a personal laptop computer, software, access to the Internet and to resources within the University, and on-site computer support. Direct admit freshman and pre-nursing students do not participate in the Computer Program until they are enrolled in the first semester of nursing courses in the sophomore year.</p>\r\n<p>Please read the full details, including cost information, about the <a href=\"https://nursing.wvu.edu/students/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-of-science/hsc-student-laptop-computer-program/\">HSC Student Laptop Computer Program</a>. </p>\r\n<h2>Accreditation</h2>\r\n<p>The Baccalaureate degree program in nursing, at West Virginia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (<a href=\"http://www.ccneaccreditation.org\">http://www.ccneaccreditation.org</a>).</p>","programContactNew":[{"Key":"f30d99aa-54b6-489c-80e2-0d7662175f5b","Id":0,"Name":"62496","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"HSCParticipant","DocumentTypeId":3539,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","directoryId":"62496"}],"academicAdvisingPages":[],"fastTrack":false,"scheduleAVisitPage":"[]","NCLEXStatistics":[{"Key":"ce1d3e9d-d8f2-4c30-9315-5f47ec295281","Id":0,"Name":"2024","IsDraft":false,"ItemType":0,"DocumentTypeAlias":"NCLEXStatistic","DocumentTypeId":3031,"TemplateId":0,"SortOrder":0,"UrlName":null,"WriterName":null,"CreatorName":null,"WriterId":0,"CreatorId":0,"Path":null,"CreateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","UpdateDate":"0001-01-01T00:00:00","Version":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","Level":0,"Url":"#","NCLEXCampus":1415,"NCLEXShowPassRateFor":1421,"NCLEXYear":"2024"}]}]}

I am well prepared for my future endeavors; my professors took the time to help shape my future in nursing. From the coursework and clinicals I have obtained with classmates, I feel very well equipped to be a part of a team while managing my patients' condition.

What made you consider nursing as a program of study?

What made me choose nursing was the ability to care for others in a unique way that others cannot. To say you made a difference in someone's life that will always be remembered is a great deal. As a nurse, the patients we have are usually eager to learn about their conditions, and with that, I can educate them and provide personalized care for them. Nursing is a career that is continually growing; with that, as a nurse, so is your knowledge.

Why did you choose the WVU School of Nursing?

I chose WVU School of Nursing due to its comprehensive study plan and individualized learning plan. At WVU School of Nursing, the program takes a longer route than others. This allows us to learn a topic thoroughly over classroom and clinical time.

Could you share a positive experience from your time at the SON?

During my time at SON, I was able to meet and bond with great classmates and staff within our university.

Some clinical experiences that were rewarding for me were being able to shadow in the operating room at Plateau Medical Center. During this clinical experience, I was paired with an OR nurse who took the time to teach about their OR rooms. I helped the patients we had by putting SCDs on them and learning medications from the CRNA in that case. With that, he allowed me to stand behind the patient, where I learned about his type of work and the opportunities nursing provides us.

Another was being able to shadow an open-heart surgery, where I could witness ECMO being used and the harvesting of the saphenous vein, which was later placed in the patient's heart to bypass one of their coronary arteries.

What's one piece of advice you would give your freshman self?

Enjoy your moments and experiences now because they will be an excellent time for your educational growth. Join WVU Tech Trio and Student Success Services sooner.

What are your plans after graduation?

I have accepted a position at Raleigh General Hospital Cath Lab. In the future of my nursing career, I hope to obtain my master's and doctorate degrees.

How do you feel WVU prepared you for your next chapter?

I am well prepared for my future endeavors; my professors took the time to help shape my future in nursing. From the coursework and clinicals I have obtained with classmates, I feel very well equipped to be a part of a team while managing my patients' condition.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I want to take the time to thank my family and friends for pushing me to reach this goal. I am excited to see what the future holds for me. I thank my professors for providing me with an excellent and broad education. I cannot wait to put my clinical skills to the test.