Meet Avery.

What made you initially consider nursing as a program of study?

From an early age, I was fascinated by the human body, pharmacology, and disease processes, which made pursuing a career in healthcare feel like a natural fit. My mom, a graduate of the WVU School of Nursing, was a tremendous influence and inspired me to consider nursing as a profession.

What ultimately drew me to nursing was the profession's incredible versatility. This career offers endless opportunities for lifelong learning, professional growth, and the ability to explore a wide range of specialties throughout a career. Few professions provide that level of flexibility while also allowing you to make a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of patients and their families. Being able to combine science, critical thinking, and compassionate care in a way that truly makes a difference is what continues to make nursing such a rewarding profession.

Can you tell us more about your previous degree(s)?

I graduated from WVU with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2019. After graduation, I spent four years working as an ICU nurse, beginning my career in West Virginia before working as a travel nurse at hospitals around the country. Caring for critically ill patients in a variety of healthcare systems provided me with many valuable clinical experiences. These experiences not only shaped me as a critical care nurse but also provided the foundation necessary to pursue a career in nurse anesthesia.

Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing for your graduate-level education?

After earning my undergraduate nursing degree at WVU, I knew I had received a wonderful education and felt that the School of Nursing prepares its students to succeed at a high level. Although the nurse anesthesia program was still relatively new, I had complete confidence in the faculty, curriculum, and clinical experiences it offered. I believed it would provide the strong academic and clinical foundation needed to become a competent and compassionate CRNA. It was also important for me to remain in West Virginia and stay close to my family and support system, which has been invaluable throughout the challenges of anesthesia school.

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

I have had many memorable experiences during my time at the WVU School of Nursing, but one that stands out happened during my senior year as an undergraduate nursing student. During a clinical rotation, I had the opportunity to observe an open-heart surgery and spend time with a CRNA for the first time. Watching them manage such a complex case while sharing their knowledge gave me a firsthand look at the profession and what it entails.

That experience was a turning point for me. It solidified my interest in anesthesia and motivated me to take the necessary steps to become a CRNA. I still remember calling my mom after clinical that day, so excited to tell her about the experience and how I was convinced that I had found the career I wanted to pursue. Looking back now, it's incredibly rewarding to be graduating from the very program that sparked that dream and helped turn it into a reality.

Are there any obstacles you’ve been able to overcome in your pursuit of any of your nursing degrees?

The last three years in anesthesia school have challenged me in more ways than I ever expected. It's truly a marathon, not a sprint. The program has demanded long hours of studying, early mornings in the operating room, and balancing rigorous coursework with intense clinical training. There have been many moments of self-doubt and feeling overwhelmed, but each challenge has taught me to be resilient, disciplined, and confident in my abilities.

Looking back, overcoming those obstacles has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. They have not only prepared me to become a CRNA but have shown me the value of perseverance and reinforced that the most meaningful accomplishments come from embracing difficult challenges.

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

The education and clinical experiences I received at WVU have prepared me well for beginning my career as a CRNA. Throughout my training, I have been able learn from faculty and clinical preceptors who challenged me to continually grow, improve, and provide safe, high-quality anesthesia care.

One of the greatest lessons I will carry with me from my time at WVU is the importance of staying curious and to never stop learning. Medicine is constantly evolving, and I believe it is essential to continue growing throughout my career to provide the best possible care for my patients. I believe the preparation I have gained at WVU has given me the knowledge and skills to take on the challenges and opportunities ahead.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to remain in my home state of West Virginia and provide anesthesia care to the wonderful people within our communities. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue giving back to the state that has played such an important role in my education, personal growth and professional journey.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Reflecting on the many years I’ve spent as a student here at WVU, I can’t help but acknowledge the profound impact so many wonderful educators have had on my life. Their guidance, encouragement, and willingness to share their knowledge have helped shape both the nurse and the person I am today. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support I've received throughout my time here. Thank you for believing in me, challenging me, and inspiring me to pursue excellence in my career. The lessons and relationships I have gained here will stay with me throughout my life.

Let’s Go, Mountaineers!