Undergraduate Degree:

B.A. in Advertising/ Public Relations from Loyola University, Chicago

Hometown:

La Grange Park, IL

What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?

I spent many years as a personal trainer. At the same time, I had a career in the entertainment industry working for a large media company in downtown Chicago. I had a client I trained who required care from a physical therapist. When my client asked me to shadow him to learn more about how to best work with him, I was able to witness how fitness and healthcare fused together to bring about change. I was inspired by the intelligence and ability of the physical therapist to slow the progression of this gentleman’s chronic illness and the ability to help him be more mobile in his everyday activity. I found myself looking up physical therapy exercises and treatment, and that’s when I knew where my heart truly was. I researched the process, quit my full-time job, and dove back into school at age 27 to take pre-requisites and pursue physical therapy school admissions. A daunting task, but worth the long five years to get my degree!

How did your background and history factor into your career choice?

My mom is a nurse, so growing up I spent a lot of time at Good Samaritan hospital visiting her. I was around medical professionals often and always respected their professionalism and intelligence. I never thought I would end up one myself, but I think life experiences and personal development drew me to pursue healthcare and I'm so grateful for the journey that has brought me here.

Why did you decide to attend Midwestern University?

I am local to the area and drove by MWU countless times. That is what drew me to apply, but the physical therapy faculty is what kept my interest. At the interview I had at Midwestern University, I met two of my future favorite professors, and the conversation we had flowed so naturally and was so fun, I felt at home. Walking out of the interview that day I felt so comfortable and "at home". I knew this was the next step for me.

What about a Midwestern University education do you want to carry forward in your career?

From the moment I went on my first clinical, I heard from many clinicians that students from Midwestern University are well prepared in terms of knowledge base and stand out for their professional behavior. I pride myself in confidently knowing I have the education and practice to succeed and that all the hard work and dedication I devoted myself to over the last three years prepared me to deliver the best quality care to my patients.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I was able to involve myself with student life on the Downers Grove Campus as President of the D.P.T. class of 2022. I had never been involved in student council in high school or my undergraduate career, so I was eager to see what it would be like at a graduate school level. Midwestern University offers so many opportunities for student involvement and life outside the classroom, encouraging fundraising, cross-cohort interaction, as well as unique events often involving the greater Midwestern University neighborhood. I was impressed with how involved student life can be, and your time at Midwestern University can be super interactive if that is also something you're looking for!