Carlos Woods is a 2017 WES graduate. After WES, Carlos attended Walden School, graduating in 2021. While at Walden, Carlos played on the school’s basketball team. Carlos is attending the University of Kentucky (Class of 2026), where he studies Kinesiology/Exercise Science and on the Pre-Physician Assistant (Pre-PA) track. His goal is to attend PA school after graduation and specialize in cardiology, focusing on assisting in cardiothoracic 
surgeries. Carlos describes his career goals as “building a career where I can make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives through specialized care. I aim to be a healthcare provider who inspires healthy habits within my community and rebuilds trust in the
healthcare system, striving to improve the well-being of those around me. “ While at university, Carlos works as a security guard.

While his career is in its beginning stages, Carlos counts earning his CNA licence as his greatest professional accomplishment to date and looks forward to many great opportunities in the future. Carlos states that his greatest personal achievement is overcoming the challenges of his upbringing and successfully navigating college independently. Being his own parent, support system, and guide has shaped him into the resilient and determined person he is today.

When asked who influenced him the most during his time at West End and why, Carlos stated, “Mr. Blair influenced me the most during my time at West End School. He instilled in me a sense of discipline and a deep understanding of life that I never expected to gain at such a young age. He encouraged us to see beyond ourselves and focus on the bigger picture—becoming well-rounded young men who could bring our community together and build strength through unity and purpose.”

During his time at WES, Carlos and his classmates had the opportunity to meet Muhammad Ali, a memorythat Carlos will always treasure. As an alumnus, Carlos and a few of his other 2017 classmates won theinaugural Alumni 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, holding his own place in WES’s sports history.

When asked what advice he would give to current WES students, Carlos said he would tell them, “Take timeto listen—it’ll teach you more than talking ever could. Believe in yourself and stay true to who you are, nomatter what others think. Enjoy the present, but also keep an eye on the future because the choices youmake today shape the life you’ll have tomorrow.” When asked what advice he would give to current collegestudents interested in pursuing a PA career, Carlos stated, “Discipline and consistency are key. Don’tcompare yourself to others or fear being different; focus on your goals. Skip distractions and embrace hardwork. Imagine the future you want and start living as that person today. Stay driven; one achievement isgood to acknowledge, but the job’s not done. Lastly, don’t hope, but be certain of your future. You are thecreator of your future and will achieve what you want if you are certain it is in your power to do so.”

We are proud of you, Carlos, and look forward to the amazing things you will accomplish as a Physician’s Assistant A!
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