I come from a hardworking family of nurses, where a strong work ethic was instilled in me from an early age. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant. While I realized that direct patient care wasn't my ideal career path, the experience reinforced my desire to work in healthcare and contribute in a different way. My passion for working in healthcare remained strong. As I navigated my early career, my family supported me every step of the way.
In 2022, I transferred to the University of Illinois as a Public Health Major before switching to Community Health— a decision that shaped my academic and career path. Looking back, I wish I spent all four years of my undergraduate career at Illinois. Illinois instilled my passion to be a good person, love the world, and take care of myself. In addition to my major, I minored in business, which helped me pursue health administration after graduation.
A defining moment of my undergraduate experience was studying abroad in Italy for a month. The opportunity to connect with people over the similarities and differences within our healthcare systems was powerful. These conversations reinforced the role of future healthcare professionals in driving change in the industry and made me realize that the time and effort I was investing into my education could open doors to opportunities around the world.
Inside the classroom, Dr. Lynne Barnes was one of the most influential professors I had. From the first day of her health administration class, she made a lasting impression by sharing her journey—how her early experience flipping burgers in fast food laid the foundation for the executive position she held at Carle Hospital. Her ability to connect real-world experiences to the complexities of healthcare administration not only made the subject more engaging but also inspired me to recognize the value of every professional experience, no matter how small.
Pursuing a master’s degree was always part of my plan, but my experience at Illinois helped me identify the right path. I looked for a program that would support me both as a first-generation student and financially, while also providing strong alumni connections, hands-on experiences, and a supportive environment – all factors that were essential in shaping my decision. That’s how I chose the University of Iowa, where I’ve been able to apply the knowledge and skills I gained at Illinois. Through my graduate assistant role in strategic marketing and communications at the Teaching Hospital, I’ve had the chance to work alongside doctors and nurses, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. What I appreciate the most about my program is the alumni network. Connecting with them has been rewarding. As I further my career, I look forward to completing my program and receiving my Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) in May of 2026. Once I receive my MHA, I hope to work in a larger healthcare system focusing on pediatrics.
My advice to current Illinois students is to make every day count. Take advantage of every opportunity, step outside your comfort zone, and build meaningful connections— you never know how the people you meet might shape your journey. Above all, be kind to everyone. Throughout my college career, I was driven by the desire to make my parents proud. I firmly believe that with dedication and the right mindset, you can have it all if you really put your mind to it.