Meet the students from the College of Public Health and Health Professions, a diverse group dedicated to improving health and well-being in communities around the world. These students come from various backgrounds, united by their passion for health and their commitment to making a positive impact. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to their studies, preparing to become the next generation of health professionals who will address pressing health challenges and advance their field.
Meet: Mikayla Stesney
Program: Bachelor of Health Science
Educational background: A.A. in Health Sciences from Santa Fe College
Hometown: Tavares, FL
Why did you decide to join your program?
From the moment I decided to transfer to UF, my goal was always PHHP. I fell in love with the curriculum of the Health Science degree and knew that I would be seeing medicine from all perspectives. Since I am a non-traditional student as well, I wanted to make sure that my degree had courses that I would love and that would still be beneficial to my future as a physician. Between my STEM courses and PHHP courses, my schedule is a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment.
What have been some of your favorite moments in your program?
I loved when Dr. Darcy would bring Molly (her service dog) in during Pathophysiology. I also love seeing professors interact with students like they are colleagues. It makes conversation less intimidating, more exciting and more interesting. I always look forward to my PHHP courses that have discussion elements within them because they offer the best moments for learning and fun!
What do you plan to do with your degree?
Which plan do you want? Plan A, Plan B, Plan C…
I’m just kidding. My plan is to be a physician. I have no idea what I want to specialize in or what I want to do, but my love for medicine and helping others runs deep. Before that though, I’m still figuring it out. I will be finishing pre-req courses and studying for the MCAT, as well as applying to do an M.P.H. abroad. I also plan on working in health care to save up some money and enjoy life!
One thing about me is that I seem to love uncertainty. However, my journey is a marathon, not a sprint. I’m more than happy with taking my time!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love taking photos of nature and building my observations list on INaturalist. I’m an artist (though it’s taken the back burner a bit) and love to explore different mediums and styles. Other than that, I love hanging out with friends, family and my pets back at home!
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the same program?
If you’re looking for a program that steps away from the science and brings the human back into medicine, Health Science is for you. To be a good health care professional, you need to know how the body works and how to work with the person within that body! The Health Science program doesn’t just teach you how to treat someone, but it also teaches you how to be the best health care provider you can be.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I’m a proud transfer student from Santa Fe College! I graduated in Spring 2024 with an A.A. in Health Sciences!
Want to learn more?
Learn more about the Bachelor of Health Science program.
Hey, current PHHP students! Want to share your story? Learn how!