Finding My Way Forward: How UoPeople Helped Me Build a Career in Health Science

My educational journey has never followed a straight line. I have explored different fields, developed interests in music and education, and gradually found myself drawn toward health sciences and healthcare. Each experience has taught me something about my abilities, my ambitions, and the kind of future I want to build

I am a Chinese-Canadian, a mathematics teacher, a healthcare worker, and a nursing student based in Ontario, Canada. Earning an Associate of Science in Health Science from University of the People was an important step in bringing my interests together and creating new possibilities for my professional future.

A Lifelong Love of Learning

I grew up in East Credit, a suburb of Mississauga. My early years were not always easy. I experienced bullying, social challenges, family difficulties, and disruptions to my education. Despite these obstacles, I was interested in many different subjects and activities.

I showed an aptitude for mathematics and French and enjoyed Lego robotics, music, visual arts, origami, dance, and martial arts. Music became an especially important part of my life. As a child, I dreamed of becoming an astronaut or a concert pianist. I also imagined pursuing singing, acting, and modeling.

After high school, I attended York University to study music and education. I later worked part-time as a piano teacher in music schools while continuing to explore other professional interests. Although my early career was largely centered on music, I gradually became interested in healthcare as a field.

Exploring a New Direction in Healthcare

After 2022, I began expanding my education into health-related fields. I earned a Personal Support Worker (PSW) diploma and pursued additional studies in medical transcription at Medix College, Fitness and Health Promotion at Seneca, and Nutrition and Fitness through Penn Foster University. I also pursued studies in nursing and applied health at Brigham Young University.

These experiences helped me discover how much I enjoyed learning about health, the human body, and the ways healthcare professionals can support others. I had previously worked in long-term care settings while studying to become a PSW, and these experiences further encouraged my interest in healthcare.

I wanted to continue my education, explore opportunities in healthcare and research, and build a more sustainable professional path. I also needed a learning environment that would allow me to study flexibly and affordably, from home.

Why I Chose University of the People

I discovered UoPeople while looking for an affordable way to return to school and continue my education. I was particularly interested in finding a program I could complete online while managing my personal circumstances and other responsibilities.

I enrolled in the Associate Degree in Health Science program in September 2024 and completed it in September 2026. My academic journey at UoPeople involved working through the program’s requirements and building my knowledge across different subjects.

Health Science was a natural choice for me because I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare and potentially research. The program also offered an opportunity to strengthen my academic foundation through subjects beyond my immediate area of interest, including mathematics, professional writing, European history, and global ethics.

I appreciated that my studies helped me develop skills relevant to today’s workplace, including mathematical thinking, online computer skills, professional communication, and an understanding of ethics in healthcare.

Learning Through UoPeople’s Global Community

One of the aspects I enjoyed most about studying at UoPeople was participating in the discussion forums. I found the discussions especially engaging because they allowed me to learn from my peers and consider different perspectives.

The experience also reminded me that learning is not limited to lectures or textbooks. Engaging with classmates and exchanging ideas can be an important part of developing a deeper understanding of a subject.

My education at UoPeople has also helped me think more broadly about my professional options. The knowledge and skills I gained have added to my preparation for the workforce, while the relationships I developed with instructors have given me opportunities to seek academic references and build a professional portfolio.

Building a Future Across Education and Healthcare

Today, I balance several professional and academic interests. I work as a mathematics teacher and provide healthcare services through local private agencies, while continuing my studies in nursing.

My background in music, education, and health sciences has given me different ways to approach learning and working with people. Each field has helped me develop skills that I can carry into other areas of my life.

Earning my Health Science degree has expanded the opportunities I can explore as I continue developing my career. It has also strengthened my interest in healthcare and research and given me a broader academic foundation for future studies.

My Advice for Other UoPeople Students: Understand Your Educational Needs

My advice to current and prospective students is to understand your educational needs and what helps you thrive as a learner. Everyone has different circumstances, strengths, and challenges, so it is important to find the right tools and support.

If you need accommodations, reach out to academic advisers and learn about the support and financial assistance options available. Make time for your readings, submit assignments early whenever possible, and develop a consistent approach to time management. I would also encourage students to build positive relationships with their peers and professors. These connections can support learning and may become valuable professional relationships later.

Most importantly, have patience with yourself and remain committed to your goals. Your educational journey does not have to look like anyone else’s.

Looking Ahead

I hope to continue my education and pursue a specialization in nursing. I am particularly interested in becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), although I am still considering which direction within nursing will be the best fit for me.

I also hope to explore opportunities to teach music or philosophy at a Christian university in the future. Beyond my professional ambitions, I look forward to building a family and creating a legacy of financial stability and opportunity for future generations.

My path has taken me through music, education, and healthcare, and I continue to discover new interests and possibilities along the way.

Completing my degree at UoPeople was an important milestone in that journey. It reminded me that learning can open new doors at different stages of life—and that it is never too late to keep moving toward the future you want.

About the Author

Emily L. is a Chinese-Canadian from Mississauga, Ontario, who graduated from University of the People in 2026 with an Associate Degree in Health Science. With a background spanning music, education, and healthcare, she currently works as a mathematics teacher and healthcare worker while continuing her nursing education. She is passionate about lifelong learning, healthcare, and research. Outside of work, Emily enjoys writing fiction and songs, listening to music, reading, going to the gym, attending church, spending time with loved ones, and serving her community through ministry.