Marisol Mora is a first-generation nursing student who said she found comfort at Midwestern State University through intimate class sizes and committed professors.

From Burkburnett, Mora was familiar with the area and chose to attend MSU Texas to remain close to her parents and sisters. She has known since a young age that she wanted to pursue a career in health care to make a difference in the lives of others, ultimately choosing nursing for the range of opportunities it provided.

That choice paid off. Mora earned President’s Honor Roll recognition each year and will graduate summa cum laude as part of the Spring 2026 Commencement on May 16 at D.L. Coliseum.

Mora appreciated the intimate educational experience she received in the MSU Texas nursing program, which helped her develop inspiring relationships with her professors, and that motivated her to work hard in class and strive for her greatest goals. She noted the inspiration and guidance she received from her pediatrics professor, Sandra Groth. “It’s really nice having that class connection in nursing school because it can be really hard,” Mora said.

Mora noted there were many times throughout her educational experience when she felt the pressure and stress of class expectations. At times it felt uncomfortable, she said, but she recognizes that enduring that struggle helped to prepare her for the field of nursing. During those times, when it’s hard for those outside the field to understand, Moran found an outlet by leaning on those friends and family who know her best.

After graduation, Mora plans to begin working in the pediatrics sector of United Regional in June. She said she was offered one of the only two residency positions at the hospital. Before she begins that job, she plans to use her free time to relax and recharge with some travel and concerts, too.

She has a vision for her future that, after a few years of nursing experience, she would like to elevate her role in the health field by going back to school to become a Nurse Practitioner. Mora would either focus on pediatrics or women’s health. She said women's health and children’s health are what she’s most passionate about.

To conclude her career, Mora said she eventually wants to return to MSU Texas to teach in the nursing program, creating a full circle story of her relationship with the MSU campus.

“I want to pour back into the program that helped me to become a nurse,” Mora said.