Graduate Student Spotlight

Nursing PhD

Student Name: Cindy Mendez

Program: Nursing BSN to PhD

Hometown: Holland, MI

Undergraduate Institution: AAS from Muskegon Community College, Muskegon, MI; BSN from Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, Loyola University Chicago, IL

Graduation Year: 2010; 2016

Why did you choose to attend UT Tyler?

While researching PhD programs I found many schools that offered online programs, which is what I needed. As a mother of three and full-time nurse I was looking for convenience. I had narrowed my choices down to three schools and emailed the program directors for further information. Dr. Chilton was the only of the three directors that personally replied to my request and invited further contact. I immediately knew the UT Tyler PhD program was the right choice for me. Aside from being convenient, UT Tyler is student friendly.

What are your career goals and how does your graduate program support them?

My career goals are to teach at the university level and perform research. My assigned faculty advisor has taken time to plan my curriculum to set me up for success.

What do you like most about UT Tyler?

There are several things I like about UT Tyler. First is the reason I chose UT Tyler; they are student friendly and supportive. The faculty and staff have been very encouraging and readily available when needed. Second, the UT Tyler nursing faculty and staff have created an environment that promotes personal and professional growth.

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