For Aislyn Goss, enrolling at Boise State University was an easy choice. Because of her love for helping others, choosing a single health path in the College of Health Sciences didn’t come as easy.
At the start of her academic career, Goss was set on applying to nursing school. When that plan didn’t come to fruition, Goss went back to the drawing board.
At a crossroads, Goss shopped around for interesting health courses and was quickly drawn to learning about public health, health policy and health ethics and laws alongside the clinical aspects of healthcare. Goss found herself immersed in the courses the School of Public and Population Health (SPPH) had to offer and joined the school as a Health Studies student with a Medical and Healthcare Science emphasis.
“The diversity of SPPH drew me in and I have gained so much knowledge from my professors, fellow students and colleagues,” Goss said. “These courses are where I was able to recognize and enhance my love for medicine as I was introduced to how important each disciple is in healthcare.”
Now a senior Honors College student, Goss is highly engaged in and outside the classroom. Goss joined the Health Professions Living and Learning Community at the start of her college experience and gained valuable insight into what health professions and opportunities are available to future graduates.
“Living in the Health Professions Living Learning Community was an unforgettable experience,” Goss said. “I had the time of my life and met my best friends, all while exploring amazing opportunities that the healthcare field has to offer.”
Between school, work and studying for the MCAT, Goss has also spent her time volunteering with local programs she connected with through a Health and Human Disease course taught by Associate Teaching Professor Travis Armstrong. Goss most recently volunteered as a camp counselor with the Camp Rainbow Gold spring camp — a non profit organization that serves Idaho children diagnosed with cancer and their families through community, activities and learning experiences.
“With her positive personality and many talents, Aislyn makes her community stronger and has a bright future ahead of her as a healthcare professional,” SPPH Associate Teaching Professor Travis Armstrong said.
This volunteer experience, Goss said, fueled her passion for working with children and in oncology.
“Most importantly, we were there to support everyone in having a great time while allowing opportunities to be vulnerable when necessary,” Goss said.
These experiences and opportunities, Goss said, don’t always fall into place easily. Connecting early with faculty mentors, Boise State’s career counselors and other students interested in health propelled her into a path of learning and service. And while the path may not have been linear, Goss’ passion for connecting with others and caring for those around her has stayed true.
“I love helping others and making an impact on those around me. Seeing others smile and relax as they realize they are in good hands under my care is a feeling that is unforgettable,” Goss said. “I am excited to transfer that feeling to my work as a healthcare provider. “