By Christopher Mossman-Larson
Is pursuing a career in nursing the next step in your educational journey? If that is the case, it is no wonder a student would choose Casper College. Not only do students get to learn in one of the best programs in the state of Wyoming, but they learn from some of the best instructors Wyoming has to offer.
Nursing faculty advisor Corrine Arross understands that setting students up for success means more than teaching them facts out of a book.
“Obviously, I’m teaching the clinical aspects,” Arross said. “But I also feel like I’m supporting them as people, helping them achieve goals, without damaging themselves in the process.”
For Arross, that always begins with a simple question. “What is your Why?” she often asks. In doing this, it helps students reflect on their deeper ambitions, helping them stay grounded and resilient during the toughest moments of the program.
Those tough moments are what attracted former nursing student Paige Blonigan to the Casper College program in the first place.
“I feel as though nurses heal people while doctors heal diseases,” she said. Blonigan’s ultimate goal was to thrive in those tough moments Arross readies students for, helping individuals during their worst moments, and providing them comfort and safety through their experience. This was driven by Blonigan’s own past negative interactions with nurses.
Reflecting on her time at Casper College, Blonigan calls the nursing program the longest and shortest two years of her life. Her best advice for incoming students? “Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” she says. “It doesn’t make you dumb. If anything, I think it’s more of a strength.”
Whether students take Blonigan’s advice to seek help or critically consider Arross’s focus on staying connected to your “why,” it is clear that incoming students to the Casper College nursing program will always get essential guidance when they come through the doors. Nursing school is challenging, but with a strong support system and a clear sense of purpose, success is within reach.