Background

Passionate about bridging gaps in healthcare, I am a driven professional inspired by my experiences in both clinical practice and academia to expand access to care and improve population health. During my doctorate in the realm of applied health sciences, I discovered the transformative potential of scalable, innovative project management to improve healthcare delivery and access My journey began with a deep commitment to underserved populations, leading me to establish and manage a nonprofit clinic that provides rehabilitation and chronic disease management for underinsured communities. This hands-on experience, coupled with my background in direct patient care, gave me profound insight into the barriers many patients face in accessing quality care. I’ve worked across a wide range of health and research domains, including oncology, cardiovascular disease, neuromuscular disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/POTS), diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), pulmonary diseases, and more. This diverse expertise, combined with my educational foundation—a Bachelor’s degree in public health and human sciences from Cal Poly, a Master’s from Seattle University, and now a Doctorate from UIC—has equipped me with a unique perspective on healthcare systems and policies. Motivated by the success and challenges of my managerial and nonprofit work, I am now focused on pursuing scalable project management roles that leverage medicine, technology, and innovative programs to create downstream impacts on population health. My goal is to design and implement solutions that not only address immediate needs but also pave the way for long-term, equitable access to care for all.

Education

• University of Illinois at Chicago
  Professional Doctorate
  

  2023 - 2024

  Grade: 4.0
  
  Activities and societies: Research
  
  This accelerated program equipped me with advanced skills to prevent and manage chronic diseases through medical and lifestyle interventions. It focused on the relationship between physiology, evidence-based care, and healthcare policy, preparing me for roles in patient advocacy and administration.
  
  This program enhanced my expertise in rehabilitation science and the care of complex medical conditions. I developed proficiency in diagnostic tools such as cardiopulmonary exercise testing and point-of-care ultrasound and gained valuable knowledge and experience in leadership within healthcare systems, policy advocacy, and community health initiatives.
  
  This experience shaped my career goal of advocating for equitable access to chronic disease management and healthcare services. The training equipped me with essential skills and fueled my passion for driving positive change in healthcare equity, particularly in underserved populations and those affected by chronic diseases.
• Seattle University
  Kinesiology and Public Health
  

  2021 - 2023

  Master of Science - MS, Public Health and Kinesiology
  Grade: 4.0
  Activities and societies: National Honors Society
  
  This program offered advanced education in public health and human movement science, focusing on the intersection of exercise physiology, motor behavior, epidemiology, and research methods. It emphasized a multidisciplinary approach, combining foundational kinesiology principles with practical rehabilitation and health promotion applications.
  
  In this degree, I gained expertise in research, designing evidence-based rehabilitation programs, and understanding complex pathophysiological concepts to enhance therapeutic interventions and health outcomes in clinical populations. The program also ignited my passion for using recreation and sport as engaging and enjoyable therapies to enhance population health and promote well-being.
  
  This education, which emphasized leadership in healthcare, program development, and equity-driven initiatives, prepared me to advocate for accessible and effective interventions that inspire healthier communities through modifiable health behaviors.
• California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
  Kinesiology and Public Health
  

  2017 - 2021

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Public Health and Kinesiology
  Grade: 3.7
  Activities and societies: Research, National Honors Society
  
  At Cal Poly, I developed a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology and a passion for using movement, sport, and recreation as tools to promote health and wellness in community and clinical settings. My studies included exploring healthcare trends, disability studies, and the role of health initiatives in improving accessibility and equity for diverse populations, particularly in aging populations.
  
  The program's "Learn by Doing" philosophy instilled in me a commitment to practical, evidence-based solutions for improving population health and inspired my dedication to fostering healthier communities through innovative and enjoyable interventions.