“The atmosphere … is so warm and welcoming!”
Name: Taylor Vonallmen
Academic Program: Associate of Science Nursing
What is your hometown? West Plains, MO
Why did you choose to attend Missouri State-West Plains?
There were many benefits to choosing MSU-WP, including being close to home, significant price differences from other universities, being able to be with my family more often, and being able to stay at the church I attend.
How would you describe your experience here?
The atmosphere, especially now that I have been in the nursing program and settled in to MSU-WP, is so welcoming and warm. Staff and students make me feel like I am right at home, and the professors make a point to let you know you are a valued part of the program/university.
What has been your favorite thing about Missouri State-West Plains?
I love the friends I have made along the way. I also love the trees around campus and walking around during autumn when the leaves are beginning to fall.
What has been your favorite course, and why?
My favorite course would have to be Nursing 101 (Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing). I loved the way my professor, Mrs. Rather, threw us right into the information and new territory, but she also was there every step of the way with love and support. The class itself is the entire basis of nursing and is so important in the day-to-day life of working in healthcare as a nurse.
How have faculty and staff helped you during your time at Missouri State-West Plains?
The faculty and staff have been wonderful and have helped me with anything I need academically. Now that I have been involved in a program, seeing and working with many of the same professors and administration, has made college much more familiar and more comfortable than just knowing a professor for one or half of a semester and then never seeing them again. Before joining the nursing program, the other professors were still always one email away from providing help when I needed it.
How did you choose your major?
I felt led to this field and have always had an interest in healthcare. I looked into the program during high school and before I began college and ultimately decided nursing was for me.
What have you learned from your time in the nursing program that will help you succeed in your education, career or life?
Expressing and showing empathy is a crucial part of life, whether it is displayed in personal relationships, professional relationships, or patient-nurse relationships. This one idea can change your perspective of someone else’s struggle. You want to let them know that they are seen and heard.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to work in West Plains at Ozarks Healthcare as an RN and continue my education to receive my bachelor’s and eventually my master’s as a nurse practitioner.