I am a full-time student and an employee, living in Seattle, WA. My working experiences range from education of early childhood and to life enrichment of elderly populations. I have worked as a teacher assistant and a school-age counselor. On the other hand, I have four years of experience, working as a dietary aide in a nursing home and a server in a retirement home. Moreover, I also have five years of experience in customer service, working as a sales associate at Macy’s.

I earned my Associate of Art degree at North Seattle College. Then, I transferred to University of Washington Bothell to earn my bachelors degree. This is my senior year in the Health Studies program. I chose this path because of my passion in finding preventive measures and promoting healthier communities.

I was also inspired to go into health studies after witnessing many poor health choices and habits; and the limited access to services in the Philippines. First, there was a lack of health education especially with the importance of a healthy diet and exercise. Second, the doctor to patient ratio was very low. Lastly, their apparatus and equipment in hospitals were outdated. As a result, the quality of care declined.

I am here to make a difference worldwide through the knowledge and skills I acquire in the Health Studies program. This program is my bridge in fulfilling my agenda of serving the world.

Outside of class, I am involved in Filipino American Student Association club. As the cultural chair, my job is to educate the members about the culture and heritage of Filipino-American. With this position, I’ve learned that culture consists of multiple dimensions. Culture is not only what you grew up doing. This is an on-going creation of values, beliefs and behaviors. We all experience new culture when we’re in a different space or placed with different groups of people. Ultimately, we all learn from each other.

My interests range from food to travel. Last winter break, I went to the Philippines, Indonesia and Korea. I love emerging myself to a new culture and trying other cuisines.