Tragedy Builds Self-esteem for BC’s Charnice White

Charnice White, a sports medicine and biology major at Bluefield College, has overcome many challenges throughout the course of her life. But one in particular changed her life.

“At the age of four I had a tragic accident,” said White, “that led me to being in a wheelchair for a year.”

The experience, she said, developed in her a desire to become a doctor so that she could help others like she had been helped. From that point on she approached life in a different way.

“I want to be a doctor to help others in a way that doctors don’t normally do,” White said. “My whole life I took joy in helping people.”

When she was in high school White worked as an emergency medical technician (EMT).

“It was an exciting experience!” said White about the opportunity to serve as an EMT. “The accident changed my life because it led me on the path of wanting to become a doctor.”

White said she chose Bluefield College to begin her education to become a doctor because BC seemed like “a good fit.”

“The one thing I enjoy the most about Bluefield College is the fact that how small it is,” White said. “It doesn’t make me feel overwhelmed.”

White said she also enjoys being involved in extracurricular activities on campus. She works for the Student Development Office, where she helps with activities and events for Bluefield College. She is also a tele-counselor for the BC Admissions Office, where she contacts prospective students to give them helpful information about the college. 

Although White isn’t quite where she wants to be someday, she says that life is “funny” when it comes to timing. She doesn’t know what medical school she wants to attend, but says she will attend one for sure. She said she also believes that when the time is right, God will lead her to the right school so she can fulfill her dreams to inspire other young people who want to be doctors.