When Mishae Variste arrived at Alcorn State University from her small hometown of Greensburg, Louisiana, she was looking for more than just a degree. She sought a community that would support her dreams while feeling like home.

Four years later, the graduating senior achieved that and more — maintaining academic excellence, participating in campus life, and securing a full-time position as a registered nurse at North Oaks Medical Center.

“Being a part of a rural area, where opportunities felt limited motivated me to seek out a university that would not only support my academic goals, but also remind me of home,” said Variste.

Her journey to Alcorn began with inspiration from high school band directors who were university alumni.

“Mr. Jackson, Mr. Dorsey, and Mr. Frye were three great mentors that influenced my decision to attend Alcorn State University,” she said.

Balancing academics with her commitment to the university’s renowned Sounds of Dyn-O-mite marching band presented early challenges.

“Not being able to travel home during the peak of marching season started to make me feel homesick,” said Variste. “I overcame this challenge with the help of my band family and the pride I took in representing Alcorn on the field and in the classroom.”

The nursing program at Alcorn prepared Variste for her career through rigorous academic and clinical training. She credits nursing professor Dr. Ira Sewell with making a significant impact on her education.

“What made her stand out from every other professor was her ability to see past the surface,” Variste said. “I’ve always been more on the quiet side in class, and while some might have overlooked that, she didn’t.”

Variste found her calling during one of her first clinical experiences when caring for an anxious patient.

“I calmly assessed the situation and helped answer all the questions the patient had,” she said. “Later, the patient thanked me for just being present and kind during that difficult time. It was the first time I truly felt the impact a nurse can have on someone’s life beyond just medical care.”

Beyond academics, Variste embraced campus life through her two years with the marching band and membership in the Epsilon Tau Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Her proactive approach to professional development paid off when she applied for a nurse tech position at North Oaks Hospital while still a student.

“In that role, I worked directly under a Registered Nurse, which allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and build confidence,” she said. The hospital later offered her a full-time position post-graduation in the Ortho/Neuro/Trauma Unit.

Among her achievements, Variste is most proud of earning the Presidential Scholar sweater for maintaining a 4.0 GPA for two consecutive semesters.

“It wasn’t easy balancing school and extracurricular activities, but I stayed focused,” she said. “It was a symbol of my hard work, dedication, and ability to overcome challenges.”

To incoming students, Variste offers straightforward advice: “Get involved, stay focused, and never be afraid to ask for help.”

The university’s commencement ceremony will be held Saturday onthe main campus.