Motivated by Healing Journey, Valedictorian Focuses on Helping Others

Keiser University Lakeland Campus Valedictorian Candice Wallace recently shared details of the experience that dramatically altered her educational focus.

“My cancer journey led me to want to treat cancer patients and give them hope,” said Wallace, who decided to pursue a career in healthcare after being diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2016, eight weeks after the birth of her youngest son, and bladder cancer in 2018. Thankful for the care she received and for her recovery, Wallace shared that the experience ignited a strong desire to help lead others facing similar challenges, so after learning more about Keiser University from members of her healthcare team, she enrolled at Keiser University’s Lakeland campus.

“The small class size allowed each student to get the attention needed, and I appreciated that the classes were solely dedicated to what to expect in our day-to-day lives in our careers,” recalled Wallace, who shared that the experience was challenging but made possible thanks to support from her loving family, as well as Keiser University faculty and staff.

Wallace, who earned her Associate of Science degree in Radiation Therapy in 2021 and her Bachelor of Science degree in Imaging Science in 2025 and is now a Radiation Therapist at The Renaissance Institute of Precision Oncology and Radiosurgery in Winter Park, Florida, says she’s consistently reminded that she made the right career choice.

“Where do I even begin? I have never felt so fulfilled. Even a bad day is a good day when you know that you’re providing quality, skilled, loving patient care. I have had so many patients who want to keep in touch even after their treatment is over, and that means the world to me. I told my daughter that if I knew I could have a well-paid career after getting a two-year degree, I would have done it right out of high school. I would have 24 years under my belt by now! I say that in jest because my sickness led me to this road. God directed my path, and I am so happy that my trials and tribulations brought me to where I am today,” she said.

Wallace added that she’s thankful for the opportunities to broaden her outreach while remaining focused on patient care and advocacy.

“I have worked on some very cool machines, traveled all over the U.S., and learned so much in my four years as a licensed therapist. I always thought I would just want to rank up into a ‘Lead’ and then a ‘Chief’ position, but my dream would be to create my path to ensure that patients are getting everything they need to be completely healed, and if not, provided with the utmost comforting care in their last days,” she said.

Wallace stressed the importance of starting with inner reflection when asked what she’d recommend to others who are mapping their education and career paths.

“People always say, ‘When you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life,’ and I’ve learned that for myself. The field of oncology is so interesting, and putting a smile on someone’s face when they are facing such a dark battle is such a gift to me. I look forward to the hugs when they ring that bell at the end of their treatment. All my life, I wanted to be a teacher and never thought I would work in healthcare. Sometimes it takes something in your life to lead you in a completely different direction. You have to find your ‘why,’ and then you can focus on the ‘how.’ Keiser was how I got to where I am today,” she said.

About Keiser University’s Radiation Therapy Program

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Radiation Therapy prepares students for entry-level positions in the profession, using ionizing-radiation producing equipment to administer therapeutic doses of radiation as prescribed by physicians for treatment of disease, generally cancer.  The program’s graduates are eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and are eligible for licensure by the State of Florida to practice Radiation Therapy. The Radiation Therapy program strives to instill the values and concepts of lifelong learning in its graduates.

About Keiser University’s Imaging Sciences Program

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences degree program develops the administrative and/or clinical knowledge of technologists, providing the educational foundation for advanced certifications and career growth.  Students may choose from concentrations in imaging administration or clinical imaging, depending on the student’s area of interest and career pathway.  The program offers technologists advanced coursework toward a bachelor’s degree completion and at least partial fulfillment of post-primary certification eligibility requirements.  The program curriculum provides foundational courses in current interdisciplinary and administrative aspects of an imaging department.  Additionally, the program allows for a more focused study of leadership and of advanced technological or clinical aspects of the imaging sciences through a specific concentration choice.

Transform Your Future at Keiser University

Since 1977, Keiser University has been empowering students like you to achieve their career dreams. As one of Florida’s largest private, non-profit institutions, founded by Dr. Arthur Keiser and Evelyn Keiser, we’re committed to your success with:

  • Over 100 degree programs from associate to doctoral level
  • Recognition as the No. 1 university in the U.S. for Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report (2023)
  • Proud membership in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities
  • A legacy of excellence in education spanning more than 45 years

Don’t wait to start building your future. Contact Keiser University today and take the first step toward your dream career. Call Toll-Free: 888-KEISER-9  or Contact a Keiser Campus near you. Schedule your campus tour and learn more about our flexible programs, financial aid options, and career services support.

radiation therapy - cancer - imaging science - candice wallace

A cancer survivor, Keiser University Lakeland campus Valedictorian Candice Wallace finds her position as a Radiation Therapist very rewarding.

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