Graduate Student Alumni Spotlight

Nursing PhD

Student Name: Carmon Weekes

Program: Nursing PhD

Graduated: Spring 2012

Employer: University of Detroit Mercy

Position: Assistant Professor

What attracted you to this field?

I love education and nursing research therefore I wanted to pursue a degree which would prepare me for a career in higher education where I can engage in both. The PhD in nursing prepared me for both.

Why did you choose UT Tyler?

Its published program focus which is "Focus on health in communities within the context of culture". This fit perfectly with my vision of nursing practice.

What do you like most about UT Tyler?

The caring and knowledgeable faculty in the nursing PhD program.

What are your career aspirations?

My career aspirations are to continue educating future nurses and to continue in my program of research related to health literacy and underserved populations. I have achieved one of my career goals since graduation which was to become tenured.

What's your work experience?

Varied clinical positions in Nursing focusing on adult health care in the hospital and community settings. I am currently teaching nursing students in an undergraduate program.

Do you have any advice to pass along to other students interested in this program?

Make no assumptions; if you have a question ask it. Keep focused and organized; it will allow you to finish in three years as the program is designed to do. Know that your faculty is there for you but you must make your needs be known. Lastly, develop relationships with members of your cohort as they will be the shoulder you will need to lean on during the program.

Find out more about our Nursing PhD