WWCC Nursing Graduate Balances School, Work, and Motherhood on Her Path to a Career in Labor and Delivery
Deyana Kirk will graduate from Walla Walla Community College – Clarkston campus on June 20, 2025, with her associate degree in nursing—a milestone that represents not only years of hard work, but also a powerful story of persistence, support, and self-discovery.
Deyana’s path to nursing started when she took a job at a medical clinic as a young mother. The experience opened her eyes to the world of healthcare and inspired her to take the next step.
“I really respected the people I worked with and I wanted to do the same kind of work,” she said. “Once I knew I wanted to be a nurse, I knew I needed to finish high school. I was about 90% done, and I was able to get my diploma through WWCC – Clarkston.”
Deyana chose WWCC not only because of her own strong ties to the college—her mother earned a Medical Assisting Certificate there and her uncle graduated from the nursing program—but also because of the support it offers to students balancing school with other life responsibilities.
“I started school when my son was two years old,” she said. “I was able to apply for childcare assistance, and that was a huge help. He goes to Tender Care right behind the college.”
Deyana completed her prerequisite coursework at WWCC and was accepted into the nursing program. She’s now finishing her clinical rotations at Gritman Medical Center in Moscow, Idaho, with her sights set on a career in labor and delivery.
“I’m really proud of myself for doing it,” she said. “It came with a lot of hard work, but I was able to balance school, work, and being a mom. I even made time for myself. That’s something to be proud of.”
Reflecting on her journey, Deyana says her biggest challenge wasn’t the material—it was self-doubt.
“I didn’t do that well in high school because I didn’t have a clear pathway,” she said. “I was worried about time management. But WWCC is so supportive, especially for students with families and jobs. That made a big difference.”
She credits her success not only to her instructors, who she says are deeply invested in student success, but also to her classmates.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out to people,” she said. “The support you get from your peers is amazing. You’re all in it together. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my classmates.”
Deyana plans to continue her education by transferring to a four-year institution to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She’s currently exploring options at Lewis-Clark State College and Western Governors University’s online program.
“That’s what I love about nursing,” she said. “There’s so much potential for growth and avenues you can take!”
Jodi Bice, WWCC Nursing advisor and instructor, believes Deyana will achieve whatever goal she sets her sights on. “Deyanna is one of those individuals who will go a long way in her career. She is driven and focused. She has strived for academic excellence in our nursing program. I have watched her grow and develop into a successful, future nurse. She has demonstrated compassion, dignity and the ability to provide patients with safe holistic care. She will make an exceptional nurse, and I would work beside her without doubt.”
As she looks ahead, Deyana is excited for what’s next.
“I’ve had a great experience in the program. The future feels really bright.”
