Category: Scholarships

Elizabeth is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in nursing at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She was drawn to this particular program by the many opportunities for hands-on experience such as lab classes, simulations and practicums. After completing her program, Elizabeth says she plans “to gain valuable experience in the medical-surgical unit before pursuing my passion for travel nursing.”

Her best study tip is to utilize a planner for all assignments and important dates – even personal plans! She says, “Taking things one assignment, one exam, one lecture, one day at a time is a helpful mindset to cope with the responsibility of nursing school.” Outside of school, Elizabeth enjoys anything that involves being active outside like hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, fishing or rock climbing. She says, “It’s enjoyable to do these activities with friends from the nursing cohort.”

Of her MSHF scholarship, Elizabeth says, “The MSHF scholarship has brought me a sense of confidence in myself and education that I never had before. It motivates me to challenge myself to reach higher goals in my own life.”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!

Dana is enrolled with Health Coach Institute studying to be a Health and Life Coach! This program stood out to her because they offer a dual certificate to be a Health and a Life Coach rather than just one singular focus area. She says, “I believe the two go hand in hand.” After completing her program, Dana plans to start a coaching business in the Mat-Su!

Of her best study tip, Dana says, “With a schedule that keeps me very busy, my best study tip has been to put it on my calendar. Schedule it like it’s an appointment that can’t be missed.” Outside of school, she is a licensed massage therapist, a mother of three grown children and she loves enjoying the beauty of Alaska!

Of her MSHF scholarship, Dana says, “The MSHF Scholarship has allowed me to pursue a desire that I might not otherwise have been able to and I’m very grateful for that!”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!

Colleen is pursuing a master’s degree in social work at Walden University and currently works in suicide prevention. She was drawn to the program by being able to help others in so many capacities. She says, “The fact that you can go so many directions with social work and have so many options. My passion is focusing on behavioral health since there is such a need especially in Alaska.”

After completing her degree, Colleen is planning on getting her state licensing for social work and then the sky is the limit! The best study tip she has is to not procrastinate. She says, “I am busy with work and children that whenever I get a free minute is when I need to be getting school work done even if it is not quite due yet.” Outside of school, Colleen enjoys spending time with her children, puppy and the rest of her family over game or movie nights.

Of her MSHF scholarship, Colleen says, “This scholarship has helped me toward achieving my goals because without this, I would not be able to attend school. Alaska needs more social workers to help out in the community and it would not be possible without the Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship. Thank you so much for the generous help and believing in the work that we do!”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!

Claire is currently studying communicative sciences and disorders with a minor in human and family development. She says, “For as long as I can remember, I have loved kids and taking care of them but never felt led to be a teacher. Becoming a speech language pathologist, I am able to work with kids who are experiencing speech or intellectual delays, or victims of a stroke or traumatic brain injury and regaining motor skills.”

After completing school, Claire hopes to work in an elementary school or private practice. Her best study tip is to incorporate something active while studying! She says, “My favorite way to study is going on a walk while looking through my flashcards or running on the treadmill and watching a video for one of my classes.” Outside of school, Claire enjoys hiking, skiing and painting.

Of her Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship, Claire says, “MSHF has helped me immensely these past two years while I pay for school not only financially, but knowing I have a huge support system back home cheering me on.”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!

Chae’ is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biological science at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She chose this program in preparation for medical school and says, “I’ve spent my personal and professional life naturally connecting with others, aspiring to improve their quality of life. Upon becoming a physician, I will get to incorporate the skills and knowledge from my psychology degree with the complex concepts of biological science to serve the community in an incredibly significant way.”

After graduating, Chae’ plans to work as an emergency room medical scribe and continue volunteering in the community at organizations like the Downtown Soup Kitchen, Hope Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Alaska Health Fair. Her best study tip is to read the textbook chapter for each class both before and after the lecture. She says, “Getting the chapter read before lecture ensures that you’re prepared and any questions that you ask in lecture will help you build on your existing knowledge rather than learning on-the-spot with no frame of reference.”

Outside of school, Chae’ practices yoga every day for mind and body wellness. She also enjoys live music, including occasionally performing vocals, and spending time camping and generally in the outdoors with friends. Of her MSHF scholarship, she says, “The MSFH scholarship has provided the benefit of working less. Thereby, allowing me more time to study and focus on my medical school application requirements. It has also served as a great networking resource to connect me with other likeminded students interested in medicine.”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!

Alana is enrolled as a first-year student at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She says, “Being a non-traditional student tat the age of 34, I was at first unsure if I would ever attend school due to time, energy and money.” She decided to pursue a degree in psychology because of a strong desire to be part of the community that uplifts the hearts and minds of both youth and adults. Alana’s ultimate goal is to contribute to eliminating suicide in Alaska.

She has two pieces of key advice to give incoming students, saying, “First is to have clarity and desire for what you are wanting to achieve. Focus on the
outcome, then everything else will follow,” and, “Secondly, for those who are unsure of themselves, remember, there is no time but the present if you truly want to achieve something regardless of your age and circumstance! Practice giving yourself grace and kindness when pursuing or learning something new.”

When Alana isn’t in school or working, she loves spending time with her family. They like getting active and trying new things, and partake in activities like hiking, camping, fishing or even painting classes. She says, “We just enjoy being together!”

Of her MSHF scholarship, Alana says, “I want to thank the Mat-Su Health Foundation for this scholarship! They have been incredibly helpful with my pursuit on achieving wellness for our community. I feel both thankful and humbled to receive such a generous award! This has helped alleviate some of the obstacles and stress on both myself and family being a student. Thank you Mat-Su Health Foundation for all that you do. I am so grateful!”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!

Bonnie is currently a medical student at the University of Washington School of Medicine and was able to enroll through the WWAMI program. She pursued the WWAMI program because it allows Alaskan students to have access to an affordable and high quality medical education and was drawn to the diverse academic and clinical experiences UWSOM offers. After graduation, Bonnie plans to attend a residency and fellowship in a medical specialty. After completing that training, she plans to use her education to take care of her fellow Alaskans.

Her best tip for others on their academic journey? She says, “I cannot stress the importance of time off and away from your studies enough! I wouldn’t be able to tackle the demanding work load of medical school if I didn’t balance it with dedicated friends and family time.” Outside of school, Bonnie loves to paddle board, bike, run, hike with her dog, Cleo, camp, read, cook and play cards with friends.

Of her Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship, Bonnie says, “MSHF has supported my journey to medicine for several years now. The MSHF scholarships alleviate some of the financial pressures of medical school and allow me to focus on my studies.”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!

Remmington is pursuing an MBA in healthcare management at Western Governors University. He says, “I’ve been very interested in the healthcare field since high school. After spending a few years as a clinical administrator I discovered I have a passion for the business and customer service side of healthcare. I have met so many providers who are excellent healthcare practitioners but who struggle with developing and implementing business strategies and policies. I want to be that little help that moves them from great to extraordinary.”

After completing his program, Remmington plans to shadow his mentor who is a C-suite executive to several hospitals and start his own medical business consulting firm. He wants to apply what he learns to help healthcare providers in Alaska to operate more efficiently so they can keep quality up and costs down for Alaskans, especially among small practices and rural areas.

His best study tip is to first figure out what you ultimately need to understand or do, and then structure your study plan to accomplish that. When Remmington has time oustside of school, he enjoys spending time with his family or practicing martial arts. He also enjoys playing his Okinawan sanshin (three-string banjo) to relax and wind down.

Of his Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship, Remmington says, “Thanks to the MSHF scholarship, I have been able to do an accelerated masters program and to focus my time on that program almost exclusively, while still having a little time to spend with my family.”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!