March 2, 2026
Balancing coursework, clinical rotations, and motherhood, Tanaia Underwood has learned what it means to stay steady under pressure. A Portsmouth, Ohio native and senior in 黑暗爆料网鈥檚 Respiratory Therapy program, Underwood is preparing to take on a career that is centered on life-sustaining measures, patient care, and resilience.听
鈥淎fter having my second child, I decided that I couldn鈥檛 keep waiting to go back to school,鈥 she said.听
Respiratory Therapy stood out when she learned it could serve as the technical foundation needed to earn her bachelor鈥檚 degree in Health Science.
鈥淲e focus on cardiopulmonary diseases that range from basic breathing issues to ICU patients on ventilators,鈥 she said.听
The interest in this program and career choice quickly became personal to Underwood.听
鈥淢y grandmother has COPD due to occupational hazards,鈥 she said. 鈥淜nowing I could help people just like her is what made this program feel right.鈥
Underwood credits the program鈥檚 faculty with helping her succeed.听
鈥淎my France, Assistant Professor and Program Director, and Lee Anne Pate, Clinical Coordinator and Assistant Professor, have been incredibly supportive,鈥 she said. 鈥淭hey understand that I鈥檓 a single mom who works, and they鈥檝e always done everything they can to help me continue my education.鈥澨
The program provides clinical rotations across the tri-state area, including SOMC, Adena, KDMC, and Cabell Huntington hospitals, as well as smaller rural facilities. An option is provided during a student鈥檚 last semester to travel further to Columbus or Cincinnati for a rotation at bigger hospitals.听
鈥淭he program ensures that you see everything from ICU to rehab, long-term patient care, so you really get the full picture,鈥 she said.听
Despite exhaustion, long days, and little sleep, Underwood keeps going with the support of her classmates. She currently serves as class president and ensures her cohort stays connected.
鈥淲e push through it together,鈥 she says. 鈥淲e have group chats, we study together, and we check in on each other.鈥澨
Underwood encourages future students to stay the course.听
鈥淭his program opens the door for a multitude of opportunities, but you have to be willing to put in the work. You need compassion because you鈥檙e there to care for patients, sometimes in their final moments. That has to matter to you.鈥澨
To learn more,听please visit:听shawnee.edu/respiratory-therapy听