"³ûÄñÊÓƵ has taught me the importance of clinical based research and I hope to someday apply this insight to finding the best suited treatment therapies for my patients."
The following is an interview from when Christianna was a student in the College of Graduate Studies at ³ûÄñÊÓƵ.
Hometown:
East St. Louis, Illinois
Undergraduate Degree:
Spelman College, B.S. in Biology
What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?
I have always loved animals, and as a kid I had hoped to be a veterinarian someday. It wasn't until my father was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease that I believed I could be a physician and help people. That was my first introduction to a hands-on, medical-related experience. After my father’s kidney transplant, I was able to record my father's vitals and tend to his surgical wounds. Seeing my father heal with my help is what inspired me to pursue a healthcare career.
How did your background and history factor into your career choice?
I am the first in my family to pursue a healthcare degree. Growing up in an impoverished area, in conjunction with a family history of illness, has helped outline my career choice.
Why did you decide to attend ³ûÄñÊÓƵ?
I decided to attend ³ûÄñÊÓƵ to enhance my medical school application by adding research experience to my resume. The University is also a short, four-hour drive away from home.
What about a ³ûÄñÊÓƵ education do you want to carry forward in your career?
³ûÄñÊÓƵ has taught me the importance of clinical based research and I hope to someday apply this insight to finding the best suited treatment therapies for my patients.
