Meet Paige.

What made you consider nursing as a program of study?

I considered nursing as my program of study because ever since the 6th grade I knew I wanted to help people and be a voice of reason for them in a difficult time. Everyone in my family is also a nurse so I feel like you could say it’s in my blood. Nursing has always been the perfect fit for me.

Did you have an ah-ha moment about wanting to become a nurse?

My ah-ha moment when discovering I wanted to be a nurse was when I was 12 and took a look around at the wonderful women in my family. I was inspired to be like them when I grew up. All the women in my family are nurses and share the characteristics of kindness, compassion, and intelligence. I went in the field to resemble them when I grew up.

Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing?

I choose WVU School of Nursing because of our high NCLEX pass rates and high job placements rates post graduation. Beyond this, in my opinion, I have experienced some of the best instructors. They are always present for their students and have so much knowledge to share.

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

A positive experience I have had during my time at the School of Nursing is getting to work at many different hospitals in the area. New settings and changes can be scary; however, I feel like this is no longer a concern of mine. I have had so many clinicals in various settings that I feel like I could walk onto any unit and take control of various situations while also advocating for myself.

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

One piece of advice I’d give to my freshman self is not to just focus on passing the test in front of you. Focus on genuinely retaining the information being taught because it always comes back up in the future.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan on moving back to Philadelphia. I have obtained a job on a cardiac step-down unit at Lankenau Medical Center through their nurse residency program. I will have the opportunity to further my nursing education this next year by focusing on professional development and evidence-based research!

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

I feel like WVU has prepared me for my next chapter by giving me the tools to deal with life's challenges. I feel confident in my ability to speak up when needed and not to be afraid of asking questions.

Anything else you’d like to add.

I would overall not change these past four years for anything. I have watched myself and classmates grow into young knowledgeable nurses. I would like to thank all of my professors for getting me to this point in my academic career. To my family, friends, preceptors, and co-workers, thank you as well for all of the support. Without you all, I would not be where I am today.