Eastside High School
Greer, South Carolina
Nursing 

 The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise.

-  Maya Angelou 

Impactful experience: 
I studied abroad in Seville, Spain where I lived with a lovely host family and attended all-Spanish classes at La Universidad de Sevilla. Even though my trip was cut short to due to the pandemic, I grew more in those short months than at any other time in my life. While I was there, I volunteered with an organization called Gotas de Leche where I prepared breakfast for and taught mini health lessons to elementary-aged children, including a lesson on the importance of hand hygiene just as COVID-19 was outbreaking in Spain. This experience changed how I view the importance of health education, especially in pediatric populations, which will continue into my future career as a registered nurse.  

Enjoy most as a TS: 
As a Top Scholar, I felt constantly supported by caring faculty and by a community of scholars who motivated me to reach for the stars and to pursue my dreams fearlessly. At the same time, when I did not have it all together and stumbled over my own feet, my scholar community uplifted me and leant me support when I could not stand alone. Through scholar events, I connected with people from all different majors and backgrounds, and I am endlessly grateful for the scholarly connections that have blossomed into lifelong friendships.  

Story: 
Two days before I began my first semester at UofSC, a final credit transferred, exempting me from taking an introductory course. I needed to add a different honors course to my schedule immediately, so I randomly registered for the last spot in ANTH388: Cultures, Pregnancy, and Birth with Dr. Luchok, as it was the only course I could find on such short notice. Little did I know, this class would open my eyes to the current state of maternal care in the U.S. and spark a passion within me to fight for our mothers. I did not know midwives still existed before this class, but now, I plan to become a certified nurse midwife to support and to empower women in pregnancy, birth, and beyond. 

Career goals/professional aspirations: 
I aspire to be a caring and competent registered nurse who advocates for her patients and provides them with support in their most vulnerable times. Ultimately, my goal is to make an impact in the world of women’s health as an advocate and a certified nurse midwife.