Stephanie Assad ’14
What have you been up to since graduation?
I work full-time as a registered nurse at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO. I’ve also been getting my BSN part-time through Chamberlain University (online) and will be done in October 2018.
What is one of your greatest achievements since graduation from MCC?
I’ve had opportunities to be a part of teams that implement evidence-based practice and quality improvement projects throughout my hospital, which has been exciting! I got to present one with colleagues at the Society of Pediatric Nurses conference in 2017.
What is your fondest memory of MCC?
Our nursing pinning ceremony and graduation were of course amazing. Another memory I loved was celebrating Nurses Week each year. It was so exciting to feel included in the profession and get to celebrate it among classmates and professors.
What was your favorite place on campus and why?
I spent the most time in L’Hommedieu Hall, so that’ll always have a special place in my heart. I also loved studying in the Library, and the group study rooms at IRC have some fun memories.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
All of the nursing professors were absolutely wonderful and so supportive of the entire class. I can’t choose just one, but Professors Bobbi George, Dawn Fucito, Pam Hicks, & Katherine Howard especially shaped me into the nurse I am today.
Dr. Erin Christensen, my microbiology professor, also has greatly influenced me. She believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and I’m so grateful to her for all she has taught me. Every nurse should have a professor as intelligent and passionate as Dr. Christensen to teach them microbiology.
If you could offer a current MCC student advice, what would it be?
Enjoy the journey, don’t just focus on where you want to transfer or what the future may hold. Take advantage of the amazing staff and resources MCC has to offer. And get to know your professors—this is something you may not have the chance to do at a bigger school.
Why was going to MCC the right decision for you?
I didn’t know what I wanted to major in, which is why I ended up at MCC. The small class sizes also helped ease me into an academic setting after being homeschooled all of my life. Overall, it was the professors and staff who really helped me know I made the right decision. From helping me figure out a career path to cheering for me during my valedictorian speech, I felt so supported and invested in.