Tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Cambria County in Carrolltown, PA; I graduated from Cambria Heights High school in 2018. While in high school I was a member of the girls’ soccer team, marching band majorette, highsteppers majorettes, SADD, and ski club. I just recently graduated from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania in May with my undergraduate degree in Health Science with a concentration in Community and Public Health and a minor in Psychology. I enjoy hunting, fishing, twirling, and going to motocross races.
What drew you to the CHW position in the first place? Do you have any experiences that have helped and/or prepared you for this role?
What drew me to the position was that it directly related to my field of study and when searching for a job, I read the CHW job description and realized this is what I want to do and I want to help as many people as possible. I interned at Penn State Extension in Clinton County under Laurie Weinreb-Welch, where we did community outreach programs and assisted on wellness teams for other programs.
What does being a community health worker mean to you?
A community health worker to me means being that support system for someone who is unsure of how to navigate through life alone. We are the lifeline and a friend to these individuals as we help them become more independent and while living long and healthy lives.
What is the most challenging/difficult part of being a CHW so far?
Being so new to the position and not knowing all of the different resources we have available in the area. I have let my participants know I am very new but I will work with them and we will learn through the process together.
If you could help people understand one thing about the clients you’re working with, what would it be?
They are not afraid to ask for help. Everyone needs help in their life no matter who you are and these participants are brave and willing to accept the help while embracing the program and what it has to offer.