A native Kansan, Destanee Brigman-Reed has a long list of involvement during her career as a Shocker. She is a nursing major, Dance Team captain, Ambassador for Diversity and Inclusion, Office of Admissions social media intern, Delta Gamma member and Student Ambassador Society member among countless other things. Destanee definitely stays busy!

One of her interests is fitness. Besides being on the dance team, Destanee is also a boxing and HIIT instructor at the Steve Clark YMCA on campus.

“I love playing sports of any kind and always finding new ways to be active,” Destanee said.

She started out as an exercise science major, but knew it wasn’t 100% for her.

“I chose nursing because I want to be the bright spot in someone’s day when they are going through a scary situation,” Destanee said. “I also like that there is always something new and always new avenues for learning in this field.”

Her professor, Michelle Lamp, has had the biggest impact on her during her time at Wichita State.

“She greatly cares not only about how I am doing academically, but mentally and professionally as well," she said. "It is always great knowing that your professor truly wants the best for you, especially during something as difficult as nursing school."

Her time as a Shocker has impacted Destanee tremendously.

Her biggest piece of advice to incoming freshmen is to embrace being uncomfortable.

“Some of the greatest things in life come from the times when you allow yourself to be vulnerable and step outside of your comfort zone," Destanee said. "It is important to remember that everyone is starting fresh in college and you're never alone.”