After taking an HR course I developed an interest in it. I find human resources interesting because a lot of people assume it’s just about hiring, firing, or being the department you go to when there’s a complaint but it’s so much more than that. HR plays a key role in shaping the employee experience, from onboarding and training to workplace culture, benefits, and even professional development. They’re often the ones making sure policies are fair, communication is clear, and that employees feel supported and valued. I appreciate how HR professionals balance both the business side and the human side of an organization, and I think that’s what makes the field so unique and important.

I found Health IT really interesting after taking a class that explained its importance in today’s healthcare system. But what really made it click for me was watching a documentary about Hurricane Katrina called When the Levees Broke. It showed how devastating it was when hospitals and clinics lost access to patient records because everything was still done on paper at the time. After the storm, many people couldn’t get the right treatment because their medical histories were gone. Some didn’t know the names of their medications, others couldn’t remember past diagnoses, and doctors had no records to guide them. That moment helped me truly understand how vital health information technology is, not just for efficiency but for saving lives. It made me realize that systems like electronic health records and secure data backups aren’t just technical tools they’re critical to patient safety, continuity of care, and disaster preparedness.

I find nonprofit organizations incredibly important, especially when it comes to addressing health issues that often get overlooked or stigmatized. In one of my favorite classes, High-Risk Health Behaviors and Harm Reduction, we explored how certain health behaviors like drug use can lead to serious consequences if not addressed properly. One topic that really stood out to me was the rise in HIV cases in a county in Indiana, particularly among people who inject drugs. Many of these individuals weren’t receiving the care they needed and, as a result, were dying from preventable complications. To address this crisis, a syringe exchange program was created to reduce harm and prevent the spread of HIV. The project was incredibly effective and helped save lives by connecting people with clean supplies and healthcare resources. Unfortunately, because of the controversy and stigma surrounding drug use, the program was eventually shut down despite its success. That experience really opened my eyes to the role nonprofits play in stepping up where traditional systems fall short. They often lead the way in harm reduction, education, and advocacy for vulnerable communities. It made me even more passionate about being involved in this kind of work and supporting organizations that fight for people’s health, safety, and dignity especially when others won’t.