Alumni Spotlight: Lily Lopez (’22 Health Science & Neuroscience Minor) 🌟 How One Life-Changing Experience in Ghana Shaped Lily’s Path to Nursing From hands-on medical work abroad to mentorship at home, Chapman University gave Lily the unexpected experiences that sparked her passion for healthcare.

What’s one unexpected opportunity or experience you’ve had at Chapman that you never imagined before enrolling?

One unexpected yet incredible opportunity I had at Chapman University was traveling to Ghana, West Africa with the Global Medical Brigades organization. In the community of Nyanfreku Ekroful, I received hands-on medical experience such as working in the pharmacy to supply medications for 712 community members, administering malaria tests to individuals of all ages, and educating the community on ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This experience changed my life, and overall perspective on life, and inspired me to pursue a career in the medical field.

Can you share a moment when a professor, advisor, or classmate made a big difference in inspiring you to go into nursing?

As I was nearing graduation from Chapman University, I received an email from Heidi Girolamo detailing a job opportunity for a part-time medical assistant position at an allergy and asthma clinic. I was hired several days after graduation and have now worked as the Office Lead of this healthcare facility for the past 3 years. During my time here, I have made numerous connections with both patients and healthcare professionals who have inspired me to pursue the field of nursing by instilling confidence in my practice and recognizing my compassionate nature.

If you could describe your experience at Chapman in one word, what would it be—and why?

If I could describe my experience at Chapman University in one word, I would describe it as revealing. I entered college unsure of what I wanted to study and nervous about making new friends while maintaining old ones. However, I confidently graduated with a major and minor I am extremely proud of and some of the very best friendships that will last me a lifetime!

Tell us about your future grad school plans?

In August of this year, I will be moving to Baltimore, Maryland and starting the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Entry into Nursing program at Johns Hopkins University. My goal is to become a highly qualified nurse specializing in both emergency medicine and international healthcare.

Congratulations Lily!