08/26/2026
🌟 From Nursing Student to Future Family Nurse Practitioner! 🌟
One of the most rewarding parts of nursing education is watching our students grow—not only into excellent nurses, but into the healthcare professionals they dreamed of becoming. Today, we are proud to highlight the journey of a PennWest Somerset Nursing graduate who continues to reach new goals right here at PennWest! 💙
After graduating from our nursing program several years ago, Allison King went on to earn her BSN from PennWest and is now continuing her education in our Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program.
Reflecting on her undergraduate experience, she shared:
“I chose the Penn West nursing program for its ability to provide quality education that was affordable, accelerated, included hands-on patient care experiences starting in the first semester, and was close to home.”
She also remembers the faculty who supported her along the way:
“All the nursing professors created a supportive learning environment by being approachable and patient, wanting everyone to succeed, and embodying the qualities of a proficient nurse.”
Her journey doesn't stop in the classroom. This fall marks five years of nursing practice at Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center, where she has worked in both the medical-surgical and emergency departments. She also serves as a substitute school nurse at Rockwood Area School District.
She beautifully described what nursing has meant to her:
“Working as a nurse in the community, I have built meaningful relationships and seen the impact you can have during some of the most difficult times in a person's life; no two days are the same, and I always have the opportunity to keep learning.”
Her time at PennWest Somerset helped her take the first steps toward a goal she had for herself—becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner. Today, she is continuing that journey as an FNP student at the university that helped launch her nursing career.
We couldn't be more proud to see one of our graduates come full circle—from nursing student, to BSN graduate, to experienced RN, and now future FNP. 💙🩺
Allison, we are so proud to call you a PennWest Nursing graduate and even prouder to watch where your journey takes you next! Congratulations on all you have accomplished! 🎓👏
