Hazell, 43, is in his second semester in the nursing program at Wichita State. He decided to return to school to make a few changes in his life. Because he was working in New York City managing an eclectic retail Web site, he was frequently away from his family. He wanted to return to Kansas and spend more time with his wife, Kathy, and their two children, Chelsea, 16 and Tyler, 14.

 

Hazell had already graduated from WSU with a communication degree with an emphasis in marketing. When considering what area of education to go into this time, Hazell had a little help from his wife, Kathy, who is a registered nurse. She suggested that he look into the health profession. Hazell considered the advice. He thought back to good and bad experiences as a patient in hospitals and figured if he had the training, he could perform well in that field.

 

Once he had chosen what career he wanted to work toward, Hazell decided that WSU would best help him get there. He not only considered the location and convenience the university offers, but he also felt a connection with WSU.

 

“I’ve always been a Shocker and wanted to remain a Shocker,” said Hazell.

 

Since returning to college, Hazell said he has performed well despite coming back from a long break. In addition to his position as a nurse technician at Wesley Medical Center and school and family life, Hazell was also elected class president in the nursing program. A couple of issues he has taken on in this position are helping develop more leadership among the younger students and initiating study groups. He said he is grateful for this opportunity.   

 

“It has allowed me to interact more with a diverse group of people,” Hazell said.

 

While attending WSU for a second time, Hazell also expressed how well supported he felt by the professors and faculty members. He said he received great encouragement from Wendell Leavitt, who was one of his professors in the biology area.

 

“He was a good confidant. I enjoyed his teaching style,” Hazell said.

 

Leavitt told him about the great demand in the health care field. He said because there have been many changes in health care, it has made for a lot of employment opportunities.

 

Hazell said one of the most exciting aspects of being at WSU is being a Shocker fan. He frequently attends the baseball games, but also looks forward to branching out and making new memories along the way. 

 

“I anticipate my most memorable moments are yet to come,” Hazell said. 

 

For anyone considering attending WSU, Hazell offered a piece of advice: “If you are eager and enthusiastic about learning and applying yourself, the faculty is willing to take the time to nurture you along your path. If you can identify a goal, everyone I’ve encountered has been willing to help get me there. You can’t dance if you don’t ask,” he said. “They admire someone who’s ready to do the work and make it happen.”

 

Hazell is planning to graduate from the nursing program in May 2009 and go on to gain experience in the intensive care unit for one year. He then hopes to enter a two-year anesthesiology program.