Rockhurst University

Stories of Impact

Representing Rockhurst: Nursing Major Proud to be Part of RU Tradition

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Many students enter college without an idea of where their career interests lie. Emma Unoski knew her passion long before setting foot on the Rockhurst University campus. A nursing major from Colorado, Emma chose her path after watching her father receive treatment for Bronchialitis Obliterans, a rare and often life-threatening lung disease.

"There were a couple of nights my dad was in the ER and nurses were the ones who actually came in and checked on my dad, because the doctors were either called in or not around," Emma says. "Nurses are the first line in helping you feel better. It can be something as simple as smiling and saying hi. It makes such a huge difference."

Emma's father was diagnosed in 2004 and, at the time, was given two years to live. In 2014, he's still going strong while Emma has also flourished. A sophomore on academic scholarship, Emma receives financial assistance from Rockhurst based on her grades, test scores and high school academic performance. She also works 5–6 hours a week in the Rockhurst Office of Advancement, getting a first-hand look at how support from RU alumni helps impact the university.

"Giving back is something I want to do," Emma says. "Giving back to something you know will help flourish and help others is the best thing to give back to. Rockhurst is a place that has made me who I am and has helped prepare me for a future and given me the best education I could possibly ask for."

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In addition, Emma is a defensive specialist on the Rockhurst University volleyball team, helping the Hawks to a 26-7 record this year and the West Division title in Great Lakes Valley Conference. It's an opportunity Emma doesn't take lightly.

"It's an honor to be able to step out and say, 'I am the face of Rockhurst,'" Emma says. "I am someone who is representing a place that I love. I consider that an honor. Some people think I just play a sport here; it's no big deal. But, I consider that an honor. You step onto that field or that court, you represent Rockhurst."

Learn How You Can Help

If you would like to help more students like Emma receive a Rockhurst education, consider making a planned gift through your estate. There are many ways to give and many gifts can benefit you as well. Contact Chris McCoy, Ph.D. at 816-501-4199 or Chris.McCoy@rockhurst.edu today, to learn more.

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