Stephanie Chand

My name is Stephanie Jotika Chand. I was born and raised in San Jose, California. My roots and heritage comes from the tropical Islands of Fiji where my parents and great grandparents were born. I also come from a very traditional Hindu family where culture, family values, and education are highly honored. I speak both English and Hindi fluently while practicing to refine and learn more Spanish. I am a student at San Jose State University studying to get my bachelors degree in Health Science concentration in Administration.

I have done volunteer work at children's and family shelters and Kiwanis Special Games. Many of these opportunities and activities that I have attended have changed my perspective in life and the way I interact with people today. I have embraced life in a positive outlook by sharing and spending time with children and students that have come from differing communities. I spent time reading with young children in shelters, preparing food, and assisting students in wheelchairs in annual games. These experiences made me realize that people come from different environments, families, homes, and upbringings but we all share a commonality and that is as humans we are weakened by infectious health. It is important to learn and know how to take care of ourselves to live stronger and longer lives. I come from a health conscious family where exercise and a nutritious diet are imperative; therefore, I try to use this to educate others.

I have also committed working at the Good Samaritan Hospital to gain experience and familiarize myself with the settings and workings of medical professionals. I plan to work in a similar environment; therefore, I decided to get hands on experiment with taking care of patients and interacting with nurses and doctors. I want to take my organizational and leadership skills to a higher level and plan to see myself working as a hospital coordinator or manager.

My parents are highly religious; therefore, they encourage good behavior and discipline at home. This will help guide and support me in my future work environments. Apart from the work at home and school, like my parents, I am a part of the Om Sai Ram Temple. I help my parents and other members organize events, festivities, and prayer sessions among my community.