CCRHS Student Ambassadors

Jessica Gallimore 

Why did you choose your Program/Major? 

My mom is a physical therapist through Home Health, an outpatient clinic, and the Carter County school system. Growing up in an environment that promotes helping people had a huge effect on me, and I knew I wanted to follow a similar career path. When my mom stressed to me just how much speech pathologists are needed—particularly in this area—I felt as though it was my calling. While I began my freshman year as a Nursing major, after hearing Dr. Noland speak to one of my classes about the goal of ETSU being the betterment of the Appalachian community I could not get speech therapy off my mind. I made the switch to Rehabilitative Health Sciences with a minor in Communicative Disorders in order to prepare me for graduate school and my future career.

When will you graduate? 

Spring 2025

Why did you choose ETSU?

ETSU has a welcoming and community-like environment that is hard to replicate. I liked the idea of having smaller class sizes with better access to professors and advisors, and I knew ETSU could provide that. The numerous opportunities that the school supplies were very appealing including honors programs, active clubs, Living-Learning Communities, and several fun and educational events. I also fell in love with the beautiful mountains and greenery the campus lies in, along with the school’s team spirit and involved president.

What is your favorite thing about ETSU? 

My favorite thing about ETSU is how interactive and helpful the faculty is. Every professor I have had has been beyond encouraging and seems to genuinely care about my education. Having educators that are supportive of my involvement has made me more confident in class participation and has truly allowed me to shine.

What is your best piece of advice for first-year students? 

My best piece of advice for new students is to get involved! College is about growing and experiencing new things, so do not be afraid to put yourself out there. I know that it is easier said than done as I am a bit shy and had a hard time branching out my first few weeks. However, once I started going out of my comfort zone, I realized that no one was out to make me feel embarrassed for participating, and many others felt the same way I did. Once I got past the mental-blockage, I was opened to a world of possibilities that made me seek more. In short, if you see something that you would like to go to or be a part of—do it!

 

Nicole Hayes

Why did you choose your Program/Major?

I chose to pursue physical therapy to be the helping hand to patients as they regain their strength to recover and resume their daily lives to make them not only healthier, but also happier. I believe that healing the body also helps heal their mental health and I want to be the reason someone has a smile on their face.

When will you graduate? 

Fall 2024

Why did you choose ETSU? 

I chose to attend ETSU because of the homely atmosphere of the campus. ETSU made me feel at home throughout dual enrollment in highschool and throughout my undergraduate years so far. Everyone has always been kind and made me feel like I belong.

What is your favorite thing about ETSU? 

My favorite thing about ETSU is all the events the campus has to offer. My favorite so far being the Miranda Lambert concert last semester.

What is your best piece of advice for first-year students? 

Get study habits cemented in your brain early! An hour or two a day is much better than spending twelve hours at the library the day before an exam. Also follow your passions, not what you think anyone else wants you to do.

Taylor Simmons

Why did you choose your Program/Major? 

I chose the radiological science program, because of all the possible career paths I could take along with it. Whether that be MRI, CT, RRA, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, or just radiography. I have always felt that I wanted something that was able to give me as many options as possible, and there are so many different ways that radiology could lead.

When will you graduate? 

Spring 2024

Why did you choose ETSU? 

I chose ETSU, because of its size, people, and spirit. I wanted to be a part of a place where it wasn’t too small or too large. I wanted to feel welcome and that everyone else around me felt as if they belonged as well. I wanted to be a part of a place where I felt as though we are all working together and that it is our job as people and a part of the ETSU community to strive and reach greatness.

What is your favorite thing about ETSU? 

My favorite thing about ETSU would have to be the sheer beauty of the campus and the surrounding parts of the Johnson City and the tri-city areas. The area houses many beautiful parks, hiking trails, and outlooks of the mountains and other beautiful landmarks that this area has to offer.

What is your best piece of advice for first-year students? 

My first piece of advice for first-year students would have to be to take one day at a time. It can seem very overwhelming coming into a very environment like college. You must try to not get caught up on what is going on a week from now or a month from now, and so on. I had to learn the hard way to not put so much stress on myself from trying to handle the future.

Wesley Jean

Why did you choose your Program/Major?

I choose to major in Nutrition because I plan to go to medical school. Historically, medical schools have lacked in nutrition education, so in order to be a better provider in the future, I thought it would be in my best interest to focus on nutrition education in my undergraduate studies.

When will you graduate?

Spring 2024

Why did you choose ETSU?

I choose ETSU because of its location and the financial aid that I got from the university.

What is your favorite thing about ETSU? 

My favorite thing about ETSU so far has been the relationships that I formed. From the friends that I have made, to the professors that I have had in classes, I have appreciated every relationship that I have formed.

What is your best piece of advice for first-year students? 

My biggest piece of advice for incoming first-year students is don’t be afraid to ask for help. The transition from high school to college is a big one, and it is important to have help through that process. There are tons of people and services that ETSU has in place to help with that transition, but it is on you to take advantage of them.