MARIETTA, OHIO — Drawn to nursing because of her passion for helping others, Jessica Evanoff chose Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) for its affordability, convenience, and proximity to home. Throughout her time in the Associate Degree Nursing program, she has balanced the demands of school, family, and work while staying focused on her goals.
Currently, she works at Marietta Memorial Hospital as a night shift nurse technician and health unit coordinator, gaining valuable hands-on experience as she prepares to launch her career.
Like many students, she has faced challenges—managing finances, scheduling, and raising two children, one in middle school and one in high school. But with strong organizational skills and a commitment to planning, she has overcome these obstacles. “I dedicate one day just for schoolwork and plan everything in advance,” she explained. “Organization is my biggest strength, in my opinion.”
Jessica’s perseverance has not gone unnoticed. “She is an excellent student who has worked tirelessly to improve her life for herself and her family,” said Student Success Coach Amanda Stilgenbauer. “Despite facing struggles outside the classroom that could have easily derailed her path, Jessica has remained steadfast and continued to push forward. Her determination is truly inspiring.”
Despite the challenges, she has found joy in her program. “The best part is seeing all the different patients and their backgrounds—getting to see their lives through their eyes,” she shared. Evanoff is set to graduate from WSCO this December. After graduation, she plans to continue her work at Marietta Memorial before relocating to Georgia in the future.
She also expressed gratitude for the WSCO faculty who have guided her journey. In particular, she credited Anatomy and Physiology professor Paula Johnson for her support and dedication. “You can tell that Paula really cares about her students and wants them to succeed. She was made to be a teacher,” shared Evanoff.
When asked for advice to future students, her response was simple yet powerful: “Don’t give up.” Her words reflect her own story of perseverance, organization, and determination, and serve as a reminder of the supportive community students can find at WSCO.
