Belhaven Alumna Emily Easterling Excels as NICU Nurse and Soccer Enthusiast

Emily Easterling is a registered nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit at Children’s of Mississippi. She credits her time at Belhaven University with preparing her for her current role, highlighting teamwork, attention to detail, and focus under pressure as key skills developed during her studies and soccer career.

“Playing soccer and going through the nursing program taught me the importance of teamwork,” Easterling said. “In the NICU, I work with an interdisciplinary team to provide the best care for our tiniest patients. The experience also sharpened my attention to detail, discipline, and ability to stay focused in high-stress environments.”

She chose Belhaven for its balance of academics, athletics, and spiritual growth. “I was able to pursue my goal of playing soccer at a competitive level while also going through nursing school. The community at Belhaven allowed me to build meaningful friendships and deepen my faith,” she said.

Easterling fondly remembers her time at Belhaven, from celebrating victories to smaller moments like spending time in the student center or rushing from clinicals to game days. “I miss the energy of game days and the thrill of competing every day,” she added.

Today, she remains involved with soccer by supporting the men’s and women’s teams through alumni events and tournaments. She enjoys reconnecting with former teammates and fellow alumni during these gatherings. “Reunions and alumni games are a great way to see familiar faces and relive those special moments,” Easterling said.

She also praises Julianne Wilson, a former teammate and goalkeeper, as the best player she played with during her time at Belhaven. “Having Julianne behind me gave me the confidence to push forward as a center back and make runs up the field,” Easterling noted.

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