Back before I applied to the MEDEX program I was involved in Health Careers Opportunity Program at the University of Southern California, were Les Howard was very instrumental in shaping the professional I would one day become. Back then I really had no idea what "medically underserved" meant, even though I fell into that category for much of my life. My maternity care for my first child was at the Indian Health Service clinic in Wellpinit, WA, and I had a natural desire to return to the reservation as a healthcare practitioner one day. I had no idea of the impact the experiences I would encounter on my journey to becoming a PA.

I was a National Health Service Corps scholar. After I completed my education I stayed involved with the NHSC by volunteering as a panelist at the scholarship selection conferences in Seattle, and last year when I learned about the Ambassador program I signed up as a volunteer. I attended my first Ambassador conference in Memphis last summer, and was asked to participate in a round-table discussion to share my experience as a "new" Ambassador. This year they have invited me back and asked me to be one of the speakers addressing the roles of the Ambassador, as a community Ambassador serving the underserved.

I am so greatful to MEDEX for helping me become who I am today. MEDEX believed in a woman without a high school diploma who had a dream, and through hard work and with great role models who helped me achieve my dream! I am confident I am exactly where I'm supposed to be at Airway Heights Correction Center, and I embrace the niche I have found in my role as an Ambassador for the NHSC. Thank you" cannot express my gratitude.

Back to MEDEX Home