I hold Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Substance Abuse Treatment as well as over nine years of experience working in human services. These years were divided between the health care and social services fields.My experience in the health care field began in 2015 when I completed my Nursing Assistant Certification. My time as a CNA was spent in health care settings such as Assisted Living Facilities, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Home Care and Hospice Care. This time was challenging but incredibly rewarding, and contributed to my ability to develop professional relationships with my care team colleagues as well as those we provided direct care for.After completing my Bachelor's degree, I chose to pursue the human and social services field. During this time, I dedicated five years to housing case management, working with diverse populations of individuals and families and applying federal and state grant funds to support the various needs of these populations.In 2023, I returned to the health care field as I had an opportunity to become a Community Health Advocate. This position granted me the ability to explore community outreach while combining the culmination of my skills in social services and health care. Though I was now in a health services setting, working with a seemingly different population of older adults managing chronic health conditions; I recognized the same patterns in social, psychological, basic and emotional needs in addition to the physical.We know that human beings are not only their bodies; they are also their minds, hearts and spirits. When the wellness of one area of a person's life is interrupted, it can negatively impact other seemingly disconnected areas, creating a difficult day-to-day experience for people. The colliding of these two worlds implemented further understanding of health care systems, chronic conditions, insurance plans and benefits, and the continuing need to support a patient holistically. While I have a variety of experience in different roles, I believe the positions I have held reflect my commitment to enhancing community well-being through dedicated service while working collaboratively with these populations to help them access needs and support their goals on a case-by-case basis.