Each of our students has graciously consented to let us know a little bit more about themselves. Scroll down to read all of their stories.
L-R: Andrew Lorusso, Nicole Karas, Winnie Birech, Mikayla Bartelt
Preferred name: Andrew ( but people have called me Andy too)
How did you end up here? (Interpret as you will.)
I ended up here because I originally was on Rachel’s study (I still am), but then I was loaned out to Ginger during the fall and to other researchers who needed help. I am always happy to help, especially if it’s with working data, esp health data.
What are you studying at the U?
I am currently studying psychology, hopefully leaving with a bachelors this Spring.
What other positions/jobs have you held?
Well, I have held other positions in Plant research, I held one in surgery lab transplant research, all research assistant based. So I have been around. OH! I also work right now on the weekends at H&M at the Mall of America, come and say Hi.
If you could have any job or profession, what would you like to try?
If I could have any job, I would actually want to be a diagnostician. But, I also would really liked being as an epidemiologist too. Secretly though it would be cool to be president too, don’t tell anyone though. Shhhh!!
What was the last great book you read and why?
The last great book is hard, because I usually don’t read books. I don’t have the time or willingness to read’em. I get bored easily if it doesn’t cut to the chase. But, the last book that captured my attention enough to read was two years ago I read “Hot Spot”, very good highly recommend.
What’s the best way to spend a free afternoon?
Best way to spend an afternoon is with friends, a significant other, or both just adventuring around. If we lived in the Mountains it would be definitely hiking and exploring nature
Are you a ‘morning’ or ‘night’ person?
I am both, I love the morning and waking up cause it’s the morning and the morning air’s crispness is always a fresh feeling. I hate the day time though cause all my energy goes away. But it returns to me at night and I am ready to do something else.
Tell us about a favorite event of your adult life or childhood.
My favorite event as an adult would have been going to Denmark and visiting Europe. These months were amazing, I wish I could go back but, maybe this time looking for a place to live?
What are your interests outside of work?
My interests outside of work, is exploring nature! like if I could do that everyday for the rest of my life I would. But, exploring forests with lush canopies. But, my other interests is very Minnesotan, even though I am not from here originally, and that’s watching hockey. Go SHARKS!!! OH! yeah I also forgot, I like experiences with tastes, so I try different types of food, drink, and others. I love it all.
What in your life are you most proud of, and why?
What I am most proud of, you know that’s actually pretty tough. But, I would have to say how I got myself here, and where I am today. It’s been a journey and half, but when I get what i truly want out of life, this will pale in comparison. I believe my greatest achievement will be being a parent, but that’s a future goal, and achievement.
Preferred name: Nicole or Nikki
How did you end up here? (Interpret as you will.)
I had been searching for a job that provided me with an opportunity to develop new skills that will translate to my future career in health services.
What are you studying at the U?
I am majoring in Physiology and minoring in Public Health and I would like to apply to Dental School after I receive my degree.
What other positions/jobs have you held?
I have worked in Retail and in Customer Service prior to this position.
If you could have any job or profession, what would you like to try?
Besides being a Dentist, I would be interested in a Choreography/Dance profession.
What was the last great book you read and why?
The Sky Tinged Red by Dora Zaidenweber was a great book to read because the author told her and her father’s real-life story about their experiences in the Holocaust.
What’s the best way to spend a free afternoon?
The best way is to spend it outdoors if the weather is nice with friends and family!
Are you a ‘morning’ or ‘night’ person?
Definitely more of a night person, but if I set enough alarms, I’ll be able to wake up and get going in the morning
Tell us about a favorite event of your adult life or childhood.
My favorite memory of my childhood is when I went to Poland for a summer with my sister and grandparents. It was great to see the beautiful country and family up there!
What are your interests outside of work?
Outside of work I love to spend my time volunteering and spend time outdoors.
What in your life are you most proud of, and why?
I am most proud of my admission to the University of Minnesota because of the countless resources available to help my development as a student and person. The opportunities available to me here are helpful as I prepare for my future career.
Preferred name: Winnie
How did you end up here? (Interpret as you will.)
I applied for an open position as a student admin support and got in!
What are you studying at the U?
Financial Mathematics
What other positions/jobs have you held?
A Treasury intern in a bank and a Business Development intern in a Mortgage firm.
If you could have any job or profession, what would you like to try?
A comedian, just so I can make people laugh all the time. It’s amazing how they can host a one or two-hour show dedicated to make people laugh.
What was the last great book you read and why?
The Thing Around Your Neck by Chimamanda Ngozi -Adichie. It’s a collection of short stories that always left me hopeful, plus, it has its hilarious moments.
What’s the best way to spend a free afternoon?
Doing activities with close friends and laughing ourselves silly.
Are you a ‘morning’ or ‘night’ person?
I think I am both, right now.
Tell us about a favorite event of your adult life or childhood.
When I was 11, I got my first and only cat pet, oh, the joy.
What are your interests outside of work?
Music, Volunteering in teenager programs, travelling, cycling.
What in your life are you most proud of, and why?
When I moved here from Kenya (by myself) had my first winter experience and so far so good.
Preferred name: Mikayla
How did you end up here? (Interpret as you will.)
I’m from a small town in rural MN, So I knew I wanted to go to school in a large city. After taking a few introductory courses in Public Health, I realized it was my passion and was what I wanted to pursue.
What are you studying at the U?
Bachelor of Individualized Studies with concentrations in Public Health, Health Service Management, and Psychology.
What other positions/jobs have you held?
Customer Service Specialist at a department store.
If you could have any job or profession, what would you like to try?
Besides being a Dentist, I would be interested in a Choreography/Dance profession.
What was the last great book you read and why?
Unbroken – Louis Zamperini’s story is incredibly moving and inspiring.
What’s the best way to spend a free afternoon?
Listening to music and baking with my friends.
Are you a ‘morning’ or ‘night’ person?
I’m usually a “morning” person, but it varies.
Tell us about a favorite event of your adult life or childhood.
Studying abroad in Argentina – I developed a very close relationship with my host family, and the experience really allowed me to grow as a person and become more independent.
What are your interests outside of work?
Dance, cooking, and trying new things.
What in your life are you most proud of, and why?
I’m a hard-worker and am highly motivated to achieve my goals, which I think are qualities that have served me well in the past and will help me in the future.
