Student Ambassadors
Meet UC College of Nursing's student ambassadors. This select group of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students represent the college at various events and in other ways throughout the academic year.
Haley Achs '27
Hometown: Greenwood, Indiana
Why did you choose UC?
Because of all of the great career opportunities nearby. Getting experience at the best-rated hospitals was so important when making my decision!
What are your career goals?
I want to graduate and go into some sort of pediatric critical care role—I'm very open to everything. I also want to go back to school eventually for an advanced practice degree.
What is a fun fact about you?
I lived through a category 3 hurricane on vacation last summer!
Jordyn Bailey '26
Hometown: Toledo, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
UC affirmed to me that they had all the resources, support and opportunities to help me grow into a confident, passionate, nurse leader!
What are your career goals?
Earn my DNP, so that I can not only practice within by desired specialty of maternal health, but teach future nurses as well.
What is a fun fact about you?
I'm left-handed!
Alexis Bende '27
Hometown: Downers Grove, Illinoids
Why did you choose UC?
Because it has an amazing nursing program that includes the opportunity to have clinical rotations at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. I also fell in love with the campus and the student environment when I toured UC!
What are your career goals?
I hope to be a postpartum nurse after I graduate with my BSN.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have four younger siblings.
Kevin Bittaker '26
Hometown: Seville, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Due to the endless opportunities the campus presents itself with. There are so many different ways to get involved to help build your career and to help you engage in a new unique and diverse environment. UC is a home away from home for me and I absolutely love it here.
What are your career goals?
My career goals are to continue to learn, there is such much to explore in the field of nursing! I would love to become a ICU Nurse eventually and make my way back to graduate school to become a professor.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have been to Hawaii five times.
Rachel Booher '26
Hometown: Kent, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of all the opportunities the College of Nursing offers, including clinical experiences, co-ops and the chance to grow both professionally and personally. From the first time I stepped on campus, I loved the atmosphere. Over time, UC has become so much more than just a school to me—it’s become a second home. The community, the friendships I’ve built and the support I’ve felt here have all made UC a place where I truly feel I belong.
What are your career goals?
I’ve really enjoyed working as a PCA and now as a co-op student in the emergency department. I hope to become a pediatric nurse and eventually return to school to become a nurse practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a twin sister and I’m left-handed!
Ella Bowles '27
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Being from Cincinnati and having two older brothers that went to UC, I was always familiar with the school. Once I decided I was going to become a nursing major and explored the UC nursing program, the decision became easy for me and I quickly saw that UC was the school for me.
What are your career goals?
I hope to either be a labor and delivery nurse or work at Children’s Hospital.
What is a fun fact about you?
I learned how to surf in California two years ago!
Gianna Casanta '27
Hometown: Kings Mills, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the welcoming environment and UC’s community spirit. My dad is an alum, so I grew up attending UC’s football games and exploring the campus. It was easy for me to choose UC due to all of the opportunities the nursing college provides and the direct admission into the program.
What are your career goals?
My current career goals are to work in the NICU at Cincinnati Children’s and eventually return to schooling for further education.
What is a fun fact about you?
I can eat really spicy foods or peppers without breaking a sweat!
Teresa Chau '27
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of all the opportunities the College of Nursing provided compared to other schools. With amazing hospitals around campus and a top tier co-op program, UC was the obvious choice.
What are your career goals?
I'm not sure but leaning towards something with cardiology.
What is a fun fact about you?
I'm a black belt in Tae Kwon Do!
Caitlyn Choal '27
Hometown: Leawood, Kansas
Why did you choose UC?
Because it had everything that I was looking for in a school between the location, program and campus. So it was really a perfect fit for me!
What are your career goals?
I'm interested in either pediatrics or the OR.
What is a fun fact about you?
I was born in Phoenix, Arizona.
Alexis Clark '27
Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the amazing hospitals within walking distance, the co-op program and the amount of support available for students.
What are your career goals?
My goal is to work in either the ICU or ER at University of Cincinnati Medical Center or at Cincinnati Children’s.
What is a fun fact about you?
I will be working in the PCU at Mercy West in the summer of 2025.
Kaitlyn Dallas '26
Hometown: Wadsworth, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because it was the best option for both my personal and professional goals. When I was touring UC, I fell in love with the campus and it instantly felt like home. UC also has a great nursing program with so many nearby hospitals and I couldn't have imagined going anywhere else for college.
What are your career goals?
I would love to work in the PICU for a few years and then go back to school to become a CRNA.
What is a fun fact about you?
I completed my Community Clinical hours across the world in Tanzania!
Madison Didyk '26
Hometown: Uniontown, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the incredible opportunities that other universities did not have, including the paid co-op program, clinical at the best children’s hospital in the country and travel abroad options. I was also excited to see how important school spirit was to the students on campus. UC has an amazing marching band that I am proud to be a member of in the color guard. Finally, UC was the only college that I toured where the advisors and professors seemed to actually care about their students and their success in the rigorous nursing program.
What are your career goals?
I would like to become a pediatric nurse after graduation. I am interested in the Emergency Department and the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. I would love to go back to school in the future to obtain my CRNA and become a Nurse Anesthetist.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a tabby cat named Nala from The Lion King and an orange kitten named Nemo from Finding Nemo.
Clara Doyle '26
Hometown: New Albany, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the College of Nursing's incredible reputation, expansive opportunities, direct-admit program and commitment to our success.
What are your career goals?
I hope to work as a pediatric nurse and, after gaining experience, potentially go back to school to become a nurse practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have two dogs!
Heather Esau '26
Hometown: Monroe, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the direct admission to the nursing program, the many hospitals nearby and the amazing opportunities it offered such as the co-op and DEU programs. I also love UC for the location, there are always things to do around campus or in the city like grabbing coffee with friends at The 86 or visiting the Cincinnati Zoo.
What are your career goals?
I would like to work in women's health and eventually become a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a Goldador (Golden + Labrador Retriever) named Finn, he is a crazy furball.
Sylvan Evard '28
Hometown: Greenwood, Indiana
Why did you choose UC?
I fell in love with the campus and the energy of Cincinnati. With a great nursing program and tons of opportunities, UC was the obvious choice for me.
What are your career goals?
I hope to work in a trauma ICU and eventually return to school to become a CRNA.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’ve been a scuba diver since I was 10!
Uzoma Fah '27
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the accredited nursing program and my scholarships.
What are your career goals?
I want to become either a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthesiologist, anything that requires higher education I am interested in.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’m Ghanaian and Nigerian!
Fardus Faqi '26
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Direct admission to nursing program, proximity to hospital systems, Cincinnati Children's.
What are your career goals?
Pediatric ICU RN, research and anesthesia.
What is a fun fact about you?
I love traveling and trying restaurants in new places.
Catherine Forbis '28
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because UC presented opportunities and resources that no other school had. Opportunities like co-op and clinical placement at top hospitals, along with seasoned faculty and exciting courses made my decision to attend UC clear.
What are your career goals?
I would like to be an ER or ICU Nurse, and would eventually like to go back to school to step into a greater role as an NP or CRNA.
What is a fun fact about you?
I used to race go-karts.
Channing Fox '28
Hometown: Warren, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because the nursing program is amazing and offers many unique learning experiences, such as the co-op program, Dedicated Education Units and international clinical opportunities. All of the professors and faculty members are also genuinely committed to supporting and helping us succeed. I feel very valued as a nursing student at UC. Since UC is also surrounded by several major hospitals, I knew I would be receiving excellent experience during my clinical rotations.
What are your career goals?
After graduation, I hope to work as a labor and delivery nurse. Eventually, I would like to become a certified nurse-midwife.
What is a fun fact about you?
I love traveling! In the summer of 2024, I traveled around Italy with my friend, Miriam, who was a foreign exchange student at my high school. My two favorite cities are London and Venice!
Mia Garcia '28
Hometown: Maineville, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
I loved the campus for how it combined big city feel while still having lots of green space. Everyone was always so inclusive.
What are your career goals?
Work at Children’s hospital.
What is a fun fact about you?
I did gymnastics for 14 years.
Grace Germano '27
Hometown: Loveland, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
I loved the opportunities I would get to be involved on campus and through the nursing college! My dream is Cincinnati Children’s and I knew I would make great connections.
What are your career goals?
Pediatric hematology/oncology NP
What is a fun fact about you?
My family sells pasta sauce and olive oil.
Josie Hawk '28
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
The nursing school is exceptional and will provide me with the best opportunities to become an amazing nurse one day.
What are your career goals?
Work at Children’s Hospital in the NICU
What is a fun fact about you?
I work at Children’s Hospital as a nurse tech on the Pulmonary and Endocrine Floor.
Sophia Heise '28
Hometown: Dublin, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the numerous clinical sites and opportunities, like co-op, DEU and study abroads. Additionally, I love that the program is direct-admit!
What are your career goals?
I am exploring options as a labor and delivery, NICU, or OR nurse. Eventually, I would like to receive my MSN or DNP degree and become a nurse practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am the oldest of six children!
Larissa Hemker '27
Hometown: Marysville, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the feeling of home I got when stepping onto both main and medical campus. The environment and community here is a feeling I could never put into words. The opportunities UC CoN could offer me were impossible to pass up!
What are your career goals?
I hope to work as a pediatric oncology nurse with plans to return to school to earn a DNP.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have been to 36 national parks!
Gracie Hicks '28
Hometown: Mason, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
I loved the opportunities it gave me as a nursing student with all the amazing hospitals in the area. UC allows students to take advantage of opportunities like co-ops and amazing clinical experiences.
What are your career goals?
I would love to be a pediatric nurse, and potentially go on to be a nurse practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I love to wake surf!
Sarah Holdread '27
Hometown: Fishers, Indiana
Why did you choose UC?
The nursing program and community! I wanted to go to a school out of state, but not too far from home. The city is full of things to do and endless opportunities!
What are your career goals?
I hope to be a pediatric, NICU, or labor and delivery nurse!
What is a fun fact about you?
I love cats and have five of them!
Avery Jensen '28
Hometown: Bloomington, Illinois
Why did you choose UC?
When I first toured UC, I knew right away that this was the place for me. Everyone in the CoN made me feel extremely supported and welcomed as an out-of-state student. I knew from day one that I wanted to be apart of an amazing program like the UC College of Nursing!
What are your career goals?
My future goal is to become a labor and delivery nurse.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have lived in the same place my entire life!
Maddy King '28
Hometown: Hilliard, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC for the campus, which I adored, and the nursing program. We have so many opportunities at UC with all of the surrounding hospitals and I love the direct-admit aspect.
What are your career goals?
I hope to be a pediatric nurse, possibly in the NICU.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have three tattoos!
Kaylee Kronenthal '28
Hometown: Crestwood, Kentucky
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the nursing program and the campus's proximity to Cincinnati's top hospitals. I knew that by coming to UC as a nursing student, I would get the opportunities necessary to help me reach my future goals. I also loved how compact the campus felt while still feeling like it was in the city!
What are your career goals?
I want to be a pediatric oncology nurse and later do travel nursing. I also want to go back to school to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I worked at a Graeter's in Louisville, KY for a year and a half and my favorite flavor was midnight snack.
Carlyanne Mayer '26
Hometown: Granville, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because it allows me to experience a larger university atmosphere while receiving my education in a close-knit and supportive community. I truly believe that no professors want you to succeed like the ones at UC's College of Nursing! UC also has a lot of excellent opportunities for its nursing students, with the many hospitals around campus that support our education.
What are your career goals?
After I graduate I would love to work in the Emergency Department. After some time I plan to work my way into trauma where I will eventually get my Trauma Nurse Practitioner Certification.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have American Pygmy goats back home!
Julia Munday '26
Hometown: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Why did you choose UC?
Because I felt supported by all of the staff and faculty members before I even officially became a Bearcat! We have a great community at UC, which is critical to have in a field as teamwork-driven as nursing.
What are your career goals?
I would like to pursue a career as a Pediatric Emergency Medicine nurse and simultaneously work on completing many different critical care/trauma-based certifications to grow my knowledge and skill set!
What is a fun fact about you?
I love snowboarding!
Stella Ray '28
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the strength of both the academic and clinical components of the nursing college. I was also excited about the unique programs UC Nursing had to offer, such as co-op and international clinical. I also chose UC because of its proximity to major hospitals, including UC Medical Center and Cincinnati Children's. When I toured the college of nursing, I felt reassured that I was going to be well prepared as an RN and supported throughout the process.
What are your career goals?
I'm currently interested in oncology and possibly pediatrics. I eventually want to become a nurse practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have been ice climbing in Vermont!
Alexis Rose '27
Hometown: Ypsilanti, Michigan
Why did you choose UC?
Because of their amazing direct admit program and the fun city life!
What are your career goals?
I hope to eventually go back to school to be a nurse practitioner!
What is a fun fact about you?
I live with 10 girls in a YoungLife house!
Maile Schalm '26
Hometown: Dayton, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because I loved all of the opportunities that are offered to students here. From international clinicals to working 1:1 with a nurse during co-op, I saw UC as a place I could learn and thrive. I also loved the campus and all of the people I met here!
What are your career goals?
I plan to work as an RN for a few years and eventually return to school for my MSN or DNP. My end goal is to be a nurse practitioner (although I'm not sure which specialty) and hopefully get into teaching either at a hospital or university.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a yoga and pilates instructor!
Salimata Sissoko '27
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because it offers endless opportunities to learn, grow and make a real impact in the healthcare field. I knew it was a place where I could challenge myself and build a strong foundation for my future in nursing.
What are your career goals?
My ultimate career goal is to become a nurse practitioner, ideally specializing in pediatrics.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a twin sister!
Michael Smith '26
Hometown: Zanesville, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
UC offers opportunities you can’t find anywhere else from clinical at nationally ranked hospitals, co-ops for hands-on 1:1 nursing experience and international clinicals. The program offers opportunities to make the most out of your education.
What are your career goals?
I hope to a an ICU nurse.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a twin sister.
Rylie Spencer '27
Hometown: Normal, Illinois
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the direct admit nursing program with excellent local hospitals.
What are your career goals?
I want to work on an ICU unit! I also want to one day earn my master’s in nursing.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’m in the sorority Kappa Alpha Theta!
Alyssa Stanley '28
Hometown: Troy, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
The direct admit nursing program and the hospitals within close proximity and top learning experiences.
What are your career goals?
Become a nurse practitioner.
What is a fun fact about you?
I lived in Brazil for a month when I was 11 years old.
Harsha Suresh '26
Hometown: Mason, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
I loved how direct the program was and all that it offered like different clinical locations (which are provided to each student) and various international opportunities and co-ops.
What are your career goals?
I’m aiming to be a CRNA.
What is a fun fact about you?
I used to live in Vietnam.
Olivia Szoradi '28
Hometown: North Olmsted, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
I really enjoyed the campus when I first toured. Another factor of coming to UC was getting direct admission into the nursing program as well as the chance to gain experience at Cincinnati Children's Hospital which is one of the best in the country.
What are your career goals?
I wish to become a nurse practitioner in some pediatric field.
What is a fun fact about you?
My sister and I are Irish twins since we were born 364 days apart.
Emma Turner '27
Hometown: Burlington, Kentucky
Why did you choose UC?
For the amazing opportunities the CON offers like co-op, DEU and the chance to work at some of the best hospitals in the nation!
What are your career goals?
I plan to become either a labor and delivery or ICU nurse and then return to school or my NP.
What is a fun fact about you?
I was a competitive dancer for 15 years!
Jordan Webb '27
Hometown: Cleves, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Because of the many opportunities it provides. I love how close the college is to various hospitals such as UC Medical Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, VA Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital.
What are your career goals?
I want to be a CRNA after working in the MICU for a couple of years.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have two dogs, a Beagle-Corgi mix named Todd and an English Bulldog-Beagle mix named Nova.
Casey Wise '27
Hometown: West Chester, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
Growing up in Cincinnati, UC was always on my radar, especially for their competitive nursing program. Outside of that, UC’s campus life and environment is unparalleled- it’s a major college campus in the middle of a big city but still feels like a small, tight-knit community.
What are your career goals?
I hope to work in the ICU for the beginning of my career and eventually go back to school to get my DNP for nurse anesthesiology.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a picture with Travis Kelce!
Sumedha Wundavalli '26
Hometown: Troy, Ohio
Why did you choose UC?
For its co-op program, the access to a variety of hospitals with differing levels of acuity, the academic support and the campus!
What are your career goals?
Work in a Surgical ICU and attend CRNA school in a few years
What is a fun fact about you?
I won my 4th grade Spelling Bee!