Yasith Weerasuriya is the President of Stanbridge University is an award-winning institution that offers programs in Nursing and Allied Health. Campuses in Orange County, Los Angeles, and Riverside provide innovative technology and hands-on learning opportunities. Stanbridge University offers Master, Bachelor, and Associate of Science degrees and diploma programs in Nursing and Allied Health in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, and online. It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
What is the background of Stanbridge University?
Stanbridge has been around for almost 40 years. As an institution, we are committed to professional development for nurses and healthcare professionals. Our mission is to allow students to enhance their skills to achieve their career goals while living the life they want.
What do you like about your job?
I like the fact that I get to give back by helping people pursue their dreams. In addition, I get to interact with students from all walks of life, and it is a great feeling working with them and seeing their success.
What are some changes you have seen in your field? In what direction do you see the industry going?
There have been significant changes in healthcare over the past four decades since we first started offering our programs. Of course, the most significant change is in the area of technology, but perhaps more importantly, it has changed the world of nursing and healthcare professions in general. People live longer; they are healthier; there has been an enormous emphasis on preventative care rather than reactionary care. We have gone from reactive medicine to proactive medicine, where we try to take care of people to prevent them from getting sick in the first place.
What advice would you give someone considering the Allied Health field?
It is essential for individuals considering this career path to research and know what career options are available and what career fields match their personality and interests. This sounds like common sense, but we often see students majoring in a specific area because it sounds exciting, and then they realize that what they have been studying is not the right fit for them. The key to success in this profession is to be passionate about your work, love coming into work each day, and enjoy helping people.
What skills are needed for a student entering your field?
In today’s healthcare environment, technology plays a vital role in the delivery of quality patient care. Students entering the field need to be proficient in using this technology while also understanding evidence-based practice and critical thinking skills. Additionally, an excellent level of communication is required to effectively interact with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals on all levels.
What do you find most rewarding about your job?
Helping students achieve their dreams and goals is extremely rewarding. As a career advisor, I see students who start with us unsure what they want to do and where they want to go. So we help them identify their interests; we provide them with guidance in selecting the right degree program, etc. Then the ultimate reward is to see them graduate and achieve their goals.
The most rewarding aspect of my job is seeing students achieve what they set out to do. It might sound cliche, but it comes down to helping people realize their dreams.
