Nursing

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.

Headshot of Haley Achs '27

Haley Achs '27

Hometown: Greenwood, Indiana

Why did you choose UC?
Because of all 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 eventually go back to school for an advanced practice degree.

What is a fun fact about you?
I lived through a Category 3 hurricane while on vacation last summer!


Headshot of Elise Abraham '29

Elise Abraham '29

Hometown: Beavercreek, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Both of my parents went to UC, and they have a great nursing program.

What are your career goals?
To become a nurse at the VA hospital.

What is a fun fact about you?
I’ve never broken a bone.


Headshot of Kiersten Achs '29

Kiersten Achs '29

Hometown: Greenwood, Indiana

Why did you choose UC?
I chose to study at this amazing school because it offers so many opportunities that other schools don’t. I love that we are close to one of the best—if not the best—children’s hospitals in the country. It is great to get that hands-on experience so early on.

What are your career goals?
I want to graduate and possibly specialize in oncology or labor and delivery. However, I am still undecided, so I am open to all fields! In the future, I plan to return to school to become a nurse practitioner.

What is a fun fact about you?
I have the same birthday as Elvis Presley! 


Headshot of Alexis Bende '27

Alexis Bende '27

Hometown: Downers Grove, Illinois

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 become a postpartum nurse after I graduate with my BSN.

What is a fun fact about you?
I have four younger siblings.


Headshot of Ella Bowles '27

Ella Bowles '27

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Being from Cincinnati and having two older brothers who went to UC, I was always familiar with the school. Once I decided I was going to major in nursing 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!


Headshot of Kurt Browning '28

Kurt Browning '28

Hometown: Trenton, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC because of the area hospitals within a short distance.

What are your career goals?
My goal is to become an emergency department RN.

What is a fun fact about you?
I like cats.


Headshot of Norah Brownlee '29

Norah Brownlee '29

Hometown: Bath, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I felt like UC had a great nursing program with great hospitals nearby, but I also just love Cincy and everything the city has to offer.

What are your career goals?
Right now, I am interested in becoming a geriatric nurse practitioner, but I truly just want to bring comfort and quality care to people. Helping people is the main goal.

What is a fun fact about you?
I love to read, craft, and scrapbook!


Headshot of Gianna Casanta '27

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 football games and exploring the campus. It was easy for me to choose UC because of all the opportunities the College of Nursing 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 school for further education.

What is a fun fact about you?
I can eat really spicy foods and peppers without breaking a sweat!


Headshot of Teresa Chau '27

Teresa Chau '27

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Because of all the opportunities the College of Nursing provides 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 yet, but I’m leaning toward something in cardiology.

What is a fun fact about you?
I’m a black belt in Tae Kwon Do!


Headshot of Caitlyn Choal '27

Caitlyn Choal '27

Hometown: Leawood, Kansas

Why did you choose UC?
Because it had everything I was looking for in a school, including 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.


Headshot of Alexis Clark '27

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 to students.

What are your career goals?
My goal is to work in either the ICU or ER at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center or Cincinnati Children’s.

What is a fun fact about you?
I will be worked in the PCU at Mercy West in the summer of 2025.


Headshot of Alaina Dorto '29

Alaina Dorto '29

Hometown: Columbus, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Because of the environment and campus that I fell in love with. Direct admission into nursing and co-op opportunities made UC stand out from every other school!

What are your career goals?
My goal is to begin my nursing career at Cincinnati Children’s, working in either pediatrics or the NICU. After gaining experience, I’d love the opportunity to become a travel nurse!

What is a fun fact about you?
I was a competitive dancer for 15 years!


Headshot of Sylvan Evard '28

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!


Headshot of Uzoma Fah '27

Uzoma Fah '27

Hometown: Columbus, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Because of the accredited nursing program and the scholarships I received.

What are your career goals?
I want to become either a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist. I’m interested in any career path that requires advanced education.

What is a fun fact about you?
I’m Ghanaian and Nigerian!


Headshot of Catherine Forbis '28

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 placements 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.


Headshot of Channing Fox '28

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 receive 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!


Headshot of Mia Garcia '28

Mia Garcia '28

Hometown: Maineville, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I loved the campus because it combines a big-city feel while still having lots of green space. Everyone was always so inclusive.

What are your career goals?
I hope to work at Children’s Hospital.

What is a fun fact about you?
I did gymnastics for 14 years.


Headshot of Grace Germano '27

Grace Germano '27

Hometown: Loveland, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I loved the opportunities I would have to get involved on campus and through the College of Nursing! My dream is to work at Cincinnati Children’s, and I knew I would make great connections.

What are your career goals?
To become a pediatric hematology/oncology nurse practitioner.

What is a fun fact about you?
My family sells pasta sauce and olive oil.


Headshot of Emily Gougousis '29

Emily Gougousis '29

Hometown: Wayne, New Jersey

Why did you choose UC?
I picked UC for its amazing direct-admit nursing program and all the opportunities it provides, such as co-ops and global study-abroad programs!

What are your career goals?
I plan to work in either pediatrics or the NICU! I also hope to potentially further my education in nursing and become a nurse practitioner!

What is a fun fact about you?
I have a twin brother who goes to Penn State!


Headshot of Molly Grontkowski '29

Molly Grontkowski '29

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I grew up as a Bearcat fan, and when I decided to pursue nursing, I knew UC was the place for me! From an amazing BSN program to a great hospital system nearby for clinicals, I knew UC would set me up for success as a future nurse! Not only that, I have always loved the campus spirit and student life and knew I had to be a Bearcat myself to cheer on my favorite team!

What are your career goals?
My career goal is to become a NICU nurse and then go back to school to get my NP license and become a NICU NP!

What is a fun fact about you?
I was a competitive Irish dancer for 10 years!


Headshot of Josie Hawk '28

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. 


Headshot of Sophia Heise '28

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-abroad programs. 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 earn an MSN or DNP and become a nurse practitioner.

What is a fun fact about you?
I am the oldest of six children!


Headshot of Larissa Hemker '27

Larissa Hemker '27

Hometown: Marysville, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Because of the feeling of home I got when I stepped onto both the Main and Medical campuses. The environment and community here are something 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!


Headshot of Gracie Hicks '28

Gracie Hicks '28

Hometown: Mason, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I loved the opportunities it gives 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 become a nurse practitioner.

What is a fun fact about you?
I love to wake surf! 


Headshot of Sarah Holdread '27

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!


Headshot of Avery Jensen '28

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 a part 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!


Headshot of Maddy King '28

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!


Headshot of Kaylee Kronenthal '28

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 have 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 pursue 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.


Headshot of Marleigh LaVoie '29

Marleigh LaVoie '29

Hometown: New Albany, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I chose Cincinnati because of the beautiful campus, amazing people, endless opportunities, unique co-op experiences, and direct-admit nursing program. It had everything I was looking for and felt like the perfect fit from the start!

What are your career goals?
I plan to work as a CVICU travel nurse and later pursue CRNA school.

What is a fun fact about you?
The only bone I’ve ever broken is my skull!


Headshot of Kierstin Mitchell '28

Kierstin Mitchell '28

Hometown: Fishers, Indiana

Why did you choose UC?
I chose to attend UC because of the clinical and co-op opportunities provided by the College of Nursing. I also love the energy of the city and how it is closer to my hometown.

What are your career goals?
I want to start my nursing career in labor and delivery and eventually become a nurse practitioner specializing in women’s health.

What is a fun fact about you?
I foster service dogs!


Headshot of Ellie Mortenson '29

Ellie Mortenson '29

Hometown: Dayton, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC because of the direct-admit BSN program, the proximity to a great hospital network, and the learning communities.

What are your career goals?
After graduating with a BSN, I plan to go to graduate school and earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree as a nurse-midwife. I hope to work in an independent birthing center or OB/GYN practice as a midwife.

What is a fun fact about you?
I love to read, and my Kindle reading streak is currently 1,610 days!


Headshot of Sam Pascarella '29

Sam Pascarella '29

Hometown: Independence, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC for its direct-admit nursing program and co-op program, which set it apart from other nursing schools.

What are your career goals?
I would like to work in the Emergency Department and eventually earn a master’s degree in nursing education to become a nurse educator.

What is a fun fact about you?
My favorite thing to do is ski, and I have been a skier for over 10 years.


Headshot of Daniela Perdomo '29

Daniela Perdomo '29

Hometown: Houston, Texas

Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC for its direct-admit nursing program and amazing clinical locations.

What are your career goals?
My career goal is to earn my BSN, gain experience as a critical care nurse, and eventually return to graduate school to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist!

What is a fun fact about you?
I'm bilingual and speak both Spanish and English!


Headshot of Stella Ray '28

Stella Ray '28

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Because of the strength of both the academic and clinical components of the College of Nursing. I was also excited about the unique programs UC Nursing had to offer, such as co-op and international clinical opportunities. I 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!


Headshot of Madalynn Redinger '29

Madalynn Redinger '29

Hometown: Alliance, OH

Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC because the program was direct-admit and offered students so many opportunities, with many hospitals nearby.

What are your career goals?
I want to work at Cincinnati Children’s in an ICU or on their oncology floor as an RN, and hopefully go back to school eventually to become a nurse practitioner!

What is a fun fact about you?
I’ve been to four countries on my own or while traveling with strangers!


Headshot of Alexis Rose '27

Alexis Rose '27

Hometown: Ypsilanti, Michigan

Why did you choose UC?
Because of its amazing direct-admit program and the fun city life!

What are your career goals?
I hope to eventually go back to school to become a nurse practitioner!

What is a fun fact about you?
I live with 10 girls in a Young Life house!


Headshot of Carolynne Schott '28

Carolynne Schott '28

Hometown: Greenwood, Indiana

Why did you choose UC?
I chose the University of Cincinnati because I really loved the nursing program and everything it had to offer. Not many people from my high school went there, so it felt like the perfect opportunity for me to branch out and experience something new. I wanted to meet new people, grow independently, and step outside of my comfort zone. Since coming here, I’ve been able to build so many meaningful friendships and become part of an amazing community!

What are your career goals?
My career goal is to begin my nursing career in a high-acuity ICU. After gaining experience in the ICU, I plan to apply to a CRNA program. Long term, I’d like to work as a CRNA and provide safe, high-quality care to all patients!

What is a fun fact about you?
I am the baby of my family with eight older siblings!


Headshot of Salimata Sissoko '27

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!


Headshot of Rylie Spencer '27

Rylie Spencer '27

Hometown: Normal, Illinois

Why did you choose UC?
Because of the direct-admit nursing program and excellent local hospitals.

What are your career goals?
want to work in an ICU! I also want to one day earn my master’s degree in nursing.

What is a fun fact about you?
I’m in the sorority Kappa Alpha Theta!


Headshot of Alyssa Stanley '28

Alyssa Stanley '28

Hometown: Troy, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC for its direct-admit nursing program, nearby hospitals, and top learning experiences.

What are your career goals?
I want to become a nurse practitioner.

What is a fun fact about you?
I lived in Brazil for a month when I was 11 years old.


Headshot of Olivia Szoradi '28

Olivia Szoradi '28

Hometown: North Olmsted, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I really enjoyed the campus when I first toured. Another factor in choosing UC was the opportunity to gain 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 a pediatric specialty.

What is a fun fact about you?
My sister and I are Irish twins because we were born 364 days apart.


Headshot of Whitney Tangeman '29

Whitney Tangeman '29

Hometown: New Bremen, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I chose the University of Cincinnati because it felt like home when I visited, and I was really impressed by its program.

What are your career goals?
My career goal is to work in the NICU at Cincinnati Children's and eventually go back to school to become a nurse practitioner. I am very open to working in any infant or pediatric care unit.

What is a fun fact about you?
I showed pigs growing up.


Headshot of Emma Turner '27

Emma Turner '27

Hometown: Burlington, Kentucky

Why did you choose UC?
For the amazing opportunities the College of Nursing offers, such as 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 nurse or an ICU nurse and then return to school to become a nurse practitioner.

What is a fun fact about you?
I was a competitive dancer for 15 years!


Headshot of Sarah Turner '29

Sarah Turner '29

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
I chose UC for the unbeatable nursing program that I knew would provide me with the experience and education needed to become a successful nurse who will change the world of healthcare.

What are your career goals?
I want to earn my nurse-midwifery certification first and eventually earn my doctorate as a nurse practitioner and work in adult acute care.

What is a fun fact about you?
I was a ballet dancer for 15 years! 


Headshot of Jordan Webb '27

Jordan Webb '27

Hometown: Cleves, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Because of the many opportunities it provides. I love how close the College of Nursing 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 become 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.


Headshot of Casey Wise '27

Casey Wise '27

Hometown: West Chester, Ohio

Why did you choose UC?
Growing up in Cincinnati, UC was always on my radar, especially for its competitive nursing program. Outside of that, UC’s campus life and environment are 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 at the beginning of my career and eventually go back to school to earn my DNP in nurse anesthesia.

What is a fun fact about you?
I have a picture with Travis Kelce!