Previous Spotlights
Cannie Cui, School of Dentistry | IP Student Program Assistant
What drew you to the University of Minnesota?
As an international freshman, I was initially apprehensive about adjusting to college life facing language and culture barriers. The warm and welcoming community at the University of Minnesota played a crucial role in my personal development. The encouragement and guidance I received from my professors and classmates enabled me to adapt to the new culture and thrive academically. Through their support, I was able to grow both intellectually and personally. The relationships I formed with my professors, classmates, and the community have been invaluable, and I am grateful for the opportunities and support that I received during my time there.
What school/program are you in at the UMN? And how many years have you been in that school/program?
I’m currently a first-year student at the School of Dentistry.
What’s your title/position at CHIP?
I’m an IP Student Program Assistant (DEI focused).
Why did you want to become engaged with CHIP?
I am excited about the opportunity to engage with CHIP and contribute to its mission of promoting equality, diversity, and respect within the healthcare profession. The values that CHIP represents align closely with my personal beliefs, and I am eager to help further this cause. Specifically, I am interested in contributing to CHIP by assisting with program planning for events that promote fun, education, and well-being. I believe that engaging in such events can help foster a sense of community and collaboration within the healthcare profession, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.
What is something you are looking forward to within your role at CHIP?
As a member of CHIP, I am currently working with other members to finalize our DEI statement. Additionally, there is a student organization in the works that will be dedicated to promoting the career development of international healthcare students. As someone who is passionate about promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), I am excited about the opportunity to help bring more underrepresented healthcare students to these extracurricular activities. I believe that creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students is essential for promoting academic success and personal growth.
What resource or service has been essential to your academic and professional success?
CHIP is an invaluable resource for healthcare students, providing a wide range of support and opportunities to help students succeed academically and professionally. One of the unique strengths of CHIP is its commitment to listening to and incorporating the voices of students, making efforts to ensure that their wishes are heard and their needs are met.
In addition to the resources provided by school resource centers, I encourage students to actively participate in student organizations both within and outside of their colleges. These organizations offer a wealth of opportunities to build connections with senior students, interprofessional students, faculty members, and alumni, all of whom can provide valuable guidance and support.
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
Personally, I find that spending time with my cat is a great way to unwind and reduce stress. His presence always brightens my day and helps me to relax. I also enjoy baking, dancing, and playing games with friends, which allow me to socialize and indulge in a creative activity outside of school. In addition to engaging in hobbies and activities, I believe that prioritizing our overall wellbeing is essential for managing stress. This means eating well, getting enough sleep, and taking care of our physical and mental health. By finding ways to manage stress and prioritize our wellbeing, we can better navigate the demands of our coursework and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
What is something that you’ve learned (or are learning) that’s made a difference to you?
One of the most important lessons I have learned is the value of living in the present moment. As healthcare students, we are constantly facing challenges and striving to achieve our long-term goals. However, it is important to remember that life is a journey, and we do not need to rush to reach our destination. Instead of solely focusing on our long-term goals, we should take time to appreciate the everyday moments and experiences that make life meaningful and joyful. Of course, achieving our long-term goals requires persistent effort and dedication. By living in the present moment, we can cultivate a sense of gratitude and fulfillment that helps us stay motivated and resilient in the face of challenges.
Interprofessional Student Garden
Tell us about your group!
The Health Sciences Interprofessional (IP) Student Garden is a student-led garden located on the east bank campus. The garden is managed by the students on the IP Student Garden Advisory Board, who are in charge of creating and designing the garden, planting, and hosting garden events. The garden aims to provide an outlet for health professional students, promoting wellness and organic relationships across disciplines.
The IP Student Garden was established by the health interprofessional well- being initiative, BeWELL, in conjunction with CHIP, after gardening was identified by students as a top preference for well-being programming.
Why did you join/what motivated you to get involved with the IP Student Garden?
Many of the students on the advisory board joined the IP Student Garden because they love gardening and wanted to connect with students from other schools and programs. Some of us joined after attending IP Student Garden events and seeing how fun it is to manage a garden and create a community space on campus. All of us are motivated to make positive impacts on our campus community!
What’s your favorite event or activity in this group?
Of course, we love planting! The planting season is coming quickly, meaning we’ll start our weekly Plant & Chat events where we plant, weed, water, garden, and socialize! Our 2nd Annual Spring Garden Party is coming up on Thursday, April 27, from 12-1:30 pm. We will have lunch and fun garden- related activities. RSVP here to join us in celebrating the reopening of the garden!
How do students get involved in your group?
Students can fill out this interest form to get on our email list! Anyone can come to our events. If you want to join our advisory board, keep your eye out for open leadership positions this fall.
What’s one interesting thing that most people don’t know about your
group?
The raised garden beds were all built by hand by the students on the advisory board last year! With the help of our community partners, we created the design for the beds, bought the materials, built the beds, filled them with soil, and planted herbs and veggies. We’re looking forward to our second growing season this summer!
Abigail Speller, MA in Speech-Language Pathology | Graduate Program Assistant
What drew you to the University of Minnesota?
I was drawn to the University of Minnesota because I wanted to go to a big university that was diverse, reputable, and affordable.
Why did you want to become engaged with CHIP?
The mission of CHIP really spoke to me! I’ve personally experienced the benefits of interprofessional collaboration in healthcare. I was excited to be able to help students build those skills alongside other students before we enter the workforce. Another thing that drew me to CHIP was my interest in community and student engagement. I’ve loved bringing students together and meeting new people that I wouldn’t have otherwise met.
What resource or service has been essential to your academic and professional success?
I would say the entire HSEC building and CHIP community. Some days are really tough and I don’t want to keep studying. Having a welcoming, bright space with friendly people really keeps me going.
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
I like doing HIIT workouts. Whether it’s in the gym or my living room, I try to move my body 3 times a week.
What is something that you’ve learned (or are learning) that’s made a difference to you?
I’ve learned that I don’t need to be a perfectionist anymore. The journey to grad school in the health sciences is all about checking the boxes and doing everything perfectly. Thankfully the program I’m in now values critical thinking, life experiences, and culturally responsive care. As long as I’m putting my best foot forward and I’m open to feedback, I’m going to be okay!
Ivana Ndege, Psychology | Health Sciences Administrative & Service Assistant
Why did you become a Health Sciences Administrative & Service Assistant?
I joined the CHIP team a little over a year ago. I have always had an interest in healthcare and supporting communities around me. Within this role, I’ve been able to explore my interests as I support students, fellow staff, and organizations in efforts that inspire and support health professional students – outside of the classroom and in their future careers.
What drew you to the University of Minnesota?
The University of Minnesota has a great psychology program. I also liked that I could conduct research as part of my degree. Additionally, I grew up in the Minneapolis area. Despite the cold winters, I love the community that surrounds me.
What resource or service has been essential to your academic and professional success?
Both academically and professionally, one of the best resources has been other students, staff, and faculty. I love learning from others. Getting to know their experiences with things that interest us similarly has been very helpful.
Why do you believe interprofessionalism is an invaluable component of healthcare?
Interprofessionalism is essential in providing optimal patient care. When future health professionals have space to learn from each other and understand how their individual roles contribute to the greater outcome, health professionals are better equipped to help their patients. Being able to collaborate, learn from, and support different health professionals improves the quality of care patients receive.
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
I enjoy listening to music, writing, and spending time with friends and family. Recently, I started doing at-home pilates and yoga, and it’s been a great way to unwind after a busy day!
Anna Van Deelen, Medical School
Why did you choose the U and your program?
Choosing the University of Minnesota for medical school was an easy choice. Growing up in Minnesota, it feels most like home here, and I wanted to start my medical career in this community. Plus, I knew I would receive great training.
What resources or services have been essential to your academic success?
The people are what make this school great. Whether it is asking a question of an advisor or working with CHIP staff to plan an event, my experience interacting with the people at UMN has been nothing but positive and supportive!
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
I spend a lot of time running or walking in the warmer months and cross country skiing in the winter – though I will really take any excuse to get outside!
Where is your favorite place to study on campus?
The CHIP lounge
What is something that you’ve learned (or are learning) that’s made a difference to you?
It’s really important to hold onto the relationships and activities that bring me joy. Whether it is going for a walk with a friend or trying a new recipe, that time is well worth it, and my schoolwork is always here when I get back.
Tell us about your experiences at the 6th annual Health Professional Student Leadership Conference
It was a great experience. I learned about how interprofessional collaboration is important in my future career and was able to discuss challenging health topics with people from other programs. I highly recommend the leadership conference!
What student activities are you involved in?
Addiction Medicine Interest Group, Partners in Dementia, Med Student Council, and Public Health Advocacy Student Alliance
Tell us about your group (purpose, mission, etc)
Public Health Advocacy Student Alliance (PHASA) is an interprofessional student group that aims to decrease health inequity. We are a group of students, representing a variety of backgrounds and experiences, learning about and advocating for the health policy that works best for our communities!
How do students get involved in your group?
Email me at [email protected]. I love to talk to people about this great group!
Jacob Ford, School of Public Health / MHA
Why did you choose the U and your program?
One of the biggest draws to me to come to the University of Minnesota for my program was the incredible alumni network. There are many alumni from a wide array of backgrounds who want to be involved and help us as students to succeed in our careers. This additional source of knowledge appealed to me.
What resources or services have been essential to your academic success?
SPH career services are a great resource that have helped me improve my writing skills and prepare for the future. Classmates and faculty members are also a needed source of support.
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
I enjoy spending time outside running along the river (before it gets too cold). A good burger occasionally helps maintain my wellbeing as well!
Where is your favorite place to study on campus?
The pods in the quiet study room on the 5th floor in HSEC.
What is something that you’ve learned (or are learning) that’s made a difference to you?
I’ve learned, and am still learning, to rely on those around me. There are so many people at the University who want us as students to succeed. Sometimes being a student can feel lonely and difficult. It makes a huge difference to me when I remember that there are people who want me to succeed and that these people are available and willing to help with any challenge we face as students.
What student activities are you involved in?
CLARION!
Tell us about your group (purpose, mission, etc) OR What is a highlight of your group so far or what are you looking forward to?
I am looking forward to the CLARION Local Case Competition in February. The competition allows for students from many different health professions work in collaboration to solve a real-world challenge. The solutions are presented to a panel of judges with cash prizes on the line!
How do students get involved in your group? OR How does your group impact students who are involved?
Visit the CLARION website here https://www.chip.umn.edu/clarion to learn more about the local and national case competition. We will be coming out with more information on the sign-up soon!
Shehrose Charania, MPH in Public Health Administration and Policy
Why did you choose the U and your program?
The University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health mission of health being a human right spoke volume to my own personal mission, value and goals. As a first-generation college student and the daughter of immigrants, my main purpose in life is to increase access to healthcare and alleviate health disparities for underserved communities. I am originally from Chicago, but Minneapolis has definitely grown on me for me to call home.
What resources or services have been essential to your academic success?
Honestly, the friends I have made have been essential to my academic success and development as a student and individual. I have definitely found a support system in my peers. In addition to my community, I have found support from my professors and the SPH Career Services.
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
I love to visit new places and coffee houses in Minneapolis (open to recommendations!). I also like to go for runs and workout to maintain my wellbeing.
Where is your favorite place to study on campus?
CHIP Interprofessional Lounge or the Starbucks across the street (the similarity in both these spaces is that there is coffee!)
What is something that you’ve learned (or are learning) that’s made a difference to you?
Set boundaries for yourself. Put yourself first. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. The commonality in these three phrases is “yourself.” It is okay to take a step back and take time for your mental health and wellbeing. As upcoming healthcare and public health professionals, we want to take care of others but it is essential that we practice taking care of ourselves first.
What student activities are you involved in?
CLARION!
Tell us about your group (purpose, mission, etc)
CLARION is an organization that focuses on interprofessional collaboration between healthcare professionals. We host events throughout the school year that focus on how interprofessional collaboration can be beneficial to the health of all individuals in our community. Our main event is hosting a local and national case competition!
How do students get involved in your group?
We are hoping to get students involved in taking part in our case competition. It is a great way to get to know students in other health professional programs. Visit the CLARION website here https://www.chip.umn.edu/clarion to learn more about the local and national case competition. We will be coming out with more information on the sign-up soon!
Raeesa Kabir, School of Medicine
Why did you choose the U and your program?
I went to the U for my undergraduate degree and have always felt at home in this community. With my family living in the Twin Cities suburbs, my familiarity with the campus, and the quality of medical education here, choosing the U was easy.
What resources or services have been essential to your academic success?
The support from the Office of Learner Development (OLD) has been essential in my academic and personal growth. Their individual/personal counseling services and academic counseling have been valuable resources for me.
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
Journaling, traveling, cooking, spending time outside and with family and friends.
Where is your favorite place to study on campus?
CHIP Interprofessional Lounge!
What is something that you’ve learned (or are learning) that’s made a difference to you?
I have learned and am still learning to say yes to things that aligns with my purpose. It is easy for me to say yes to everything. But I have been practicing being intentional about my decision to commit to things.
What student activities are you involved in?
BIPOC Health Professional Student Collective
Tell us about your group (purpose, mission, etc)
The BIPOC Health Professional Student Collective is a student-led organization that started Spring 2021. Our goals are to identify the needs, and strengths of the BIPOC health professional community at UMN, develop an interprofessional community building space for BIPOC students, and provide relevant resources and support.
How do students get involved in your group?
Students can email us at [email protected] or fill out this interest form linked here. We are also currently accepting application for board members, which can be found at this link. We are looking forward to growing our group and connecting with health professional students at the UMN!
Natalie Platt, Student Engagement Coordinator
What drew you to the University of Minnesota?
I was initially drawn to Minnesota from my hometown in Colorado to attend undergraduate school at Macalester College. While I was an undergraduate student, I fell in love with the Twin Cities and explored what I wanted to do professionally after graduation. Long story short, I worked for a bit and then ended up pursuing a Master of Social Work degree and applied to the U of M and Augsburg so that I could stay in the Cities. Ultimately, I found that the U's MSW program was the better option for me due to their concentration options and expansive curriculum.
Why did you want to become engaged with CHIP?
During my first year in the MSW program at the U, I did my field placement at CHIP, so I interned here about 16 hours per week. At that time, I worked mostly with the Interprofessional Student Parent Community. During my second year in the MSW program, I interned at the University of MN Women's Center about 20 hours per week. Throughout those two years, I realized how much I value the academic, professional, and personal growth that higher education has the potential to add to people's lives. I realized I wanted to continue to bring my social work ethics and values to the world of higher education to make it accessible, equitable, and enjoyable for anyone who wants to pursue it. I also spent the last year working as a healthcare social worker, so I felt that CHIP would give me the unique opportunity to combine my passion for higher education with my experience in healthcare.
What is something you are looking forward to within your role at CHIP?
I am really excited to work with and learn from all the student groups and leaders. The time I spent at the U as a student/intern was during peak pandemic time, so I really didn't get to interact with many students, staff, or faculty outside of the social work program. Prior to starting at CHIP, I worked in long-term care as part of an interdisciplinary team, so I am looking forward to implementing that interdisciplinary work into a higher education context.
What or who has made a great impact in guiding you through your academic and/or professional success?
I would say one of my co-workers from my last job has been instrumental to getting me to where I am now. She not only taught me so many new social work skills that I'll bring into all my future jobs, but she always supported my passions and happiness, which is ultimately why I ended up applying to this position. I've only been here a short time, but I really value the programming that CHIP supports/facilitates and I'm happy to come to work, which really goes a long way for promoting your wellbeing!
What is something you wish you knew before starting your career?
I wish I knew that the majority of people will likely go through a bunch of different phases in their lives that will ultimately lead them to where they want to/should be. I think my professional goals and aspirations have changed and evolved a lot over the past five years or so, and I finally feel really content with where I am.
What is something you enjoy doing to maintain your wellbeing?
I love walking around the lakes! I live in Loring Park, which is fairly close to Lake of the Isles. Lake of the Isles is my happy place - I usually go several times per week. An evening walk around it always calms me down and gives me the opportunity to listen to music, call a friend or family member, people watch, or just think. I also like looking for turtles and muskrats!
Brooke Offenhauser, School of Public Health
Why did you choose the U and your program?
I’m a Minnesota native, so I wanted to stay local. The Twin Cities is such a vibrant place full of so many opportunities for connection and experience! Plus, the School of Public Health is one of the top-ranked public health institutions in the country. I chose public health because when I worked as a health promotion peer educator during my undergrad at Macalester College, I fell in love with the idea of promoting health and preventing disease. Public health and specifically community health promotion seemed like the perfect match for my past experiences, my passions, and my plans for the future.
What is something you wish you knew before you started your program?
Get involved and reach out early! An MPH is only a two-year degree, and those two years will go by really fast. I did my best to make the most of my first year, but I have so much I still want to do with my one remaining year.
What resources or services have been essential to your academic success?
I can’t speak enough praises of the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health! They have provided extensive resources, especially for new students, and they support you through every step of your degree. They are an invaluable resource for students in my program!
What are your career goals after finishing your degree?
After I finish my MPH, I want to work as a health promotion specialist on a college campus, working with students who are peer educators.
What is your favorite place on campus and why?
My favorite place on campus is the CHIP Interprofessional Student Lounge on the 7th floor of HSEC. Specifically, I love sitting in one of the booths early in the morning when it is quiet, and sunshine is pouring into the space. It is so peaceful and ideal for studying!
Melanie Quick, School of Medicine
Why did you choose the U and your program?
I’m originally from MN but ended up moving away for college and work. I was excited to move home to be closer to family and enjoy living in Minneapolis for the first time. The medical students I spoke to during the interviewing process emphasized the great community and support system here, which influenced my decision too.
What is something you wish you knew before you started your program?
Figure out how to navigate the Gopher Way before it’s -25 F and you’re late for an 8 am lecture
What resources or services have been essential to your academic success?
Fellow students have been really helpful – everyone is so willing to share flashcards, study guides, and helpful resources. It just ties back to having a community where everyone is invested in succeeding together
What are your career goals after finishing your degree?
Next up is residency, although which specialty is still undecided. My interests seem to change day to day!
What is your favorite place on campus and why?
The outdoor space behind HSEC and PWB is great (when it’s nice out) and will be even better when the Interprofessional Garden is in full bloom!
Alli Weidman, MHA
Why did you choose the U and your program?
I chose the U and my program because when I came to campus to interview it immediately felt like a family. I could tell that the cohorts were close and students got to know the professors well. The program does a lot to support the students in a holistic way, which I really appreciate. On top of that, the MHA program is well-respected among healthcare leaders and there is a large and engaged alumni group that I knew would be beneficial to me throughout my career.
What is something you wish you knew before you started your program?
One thing I wish I knew before I started my program was the importance of self-care during graduate school. With so many organizations and activities to get involved in and putting pressure on myself to figure out what I wanted to do after the program, I found myself getting very burned out during my first year. I’ve learned that if I don’t take care of myself first, then I can’t put in 100% effort into anything I do. Fortunately, during my second year I’ve figured out how to balance school and extracurricular activities with more self-care activities.
What resources or services have been essential to your academic success?
The SPH Alumni Mentor Program has been essential to my academic success. I was paired with a mentor during my first year who was an alumna of the MHA program and she helped me in numerous ways, from helping me resthink my resume to helping me work through some challenges during my summer internship. I know she’ll continue to be a resource to me even after I graduate and I’m very grateful that I was connected to her through this program.
What are your career goals after finishing your degree?
After graduating, I will be doing an Administrative Fellowship at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital just outside of Denver. From there I’m hoping to work in ambulatory operations to learn the ins and outs of managing a clinic. I’m really passionate about health equity, so ultimately in my career I’d like to work on improving access to care and care coordination between social services and health care.
What is your favorite place on campus and why?
While I haven’t gotten to explore campus too much because of COVID-19, I would say my favorite place is the CHIP Lounge in HSEC. I like this as a place to study because of all the natural light and it’s fun to have students from all professions around.