Growing up in Worcester after emigrating from Kenya, Roy Karanja ’27 watched his parents build a life for their family as certified nursing assistants. Even at an early age, he understood the work his parents were doing was about more than a paycheck. They were doing good in their community, and Karanja found inspiration in that. In fact, it was his parents’ dedication to caring for others that sparked his own interest in healthcare.

On any given day, senior Mia Haynes might be found driving to the hoop as a starting guard on Worcester State’s women’s basketball team. If not in the gym, she might be organizing faith-based fun on campus as president of the Christian Fellowship Club. When she’s not fulfilling her duties as either an athlete or club leader, she’s most likely deep in reading, as required of any English major with aspirations of becoming an educator. 

In September 2001, the Worcester State University nursing community lost one of its brightest stars. Jill Ann Bilodeau was a junior in the nursing program, known by peers and faculty alike for her fierce determination and an unwavering career goal: she was going to wear the uniform of a Life Flight nurse, saving lives aboard the UMass/Memorial emergency helicopter.

When Emily Spearin graduated from Worcester State University’s nursing program in spring 2026, she took with her more than memories, friendships, and a hard-earned degree. She also left something behind: a legacy of support that will empower future nursing students for years to come.

For many Worcester State University students, experiential learning opportunities—such as internships, student teaching placements, practicums, and community-based learning experiences—serve as a bridge between the classroom and a future career. These hands-on experiences allow students to apply what they have learned, build professional networks, and gain confidence in their chosen fields.