Meet Ruth! A UoPeople Health Science Student Using Her Degree to Help Others

Ruth’s life is inspiring, but it’s never been easy. “I’ve been in and out of hospitals my entire life. Being born HIV+, life has been a struggle since the moment I was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,” she says. 

But what makes Ruth so remarkable is her optimistic outlook on life no matter the many challenges she has faced. “It’s important to look at the brighter side of life, I’ve chosen to enjoy every moment,” she shares.

Because Ruth suffered from ill health, there wasn’t much opportunity for her to make friends. Instead, she spent time reading books, drawing, and exploring academic pursuits. “My educational journey has been beautiful despite the many obstacles I’ve faced. Growing up, I buried myself in books and managed to get good grades.”

Art became a passion for Ruth, who spends her time looking for the hidden meaning in objects of art. I like expressing myself in drawings and through the written word. Most of my drawings are based on my observations of everyday life. I am a people watcher. But I also appreciate nature and enjoy capturing natural beauty,” she shares. 

Another aspect of life that Ruth is passionate about? Helping others. “I volunteered often growing up. My friends and I would walk around collecting donations to help provide for homeless children and young mothers. We would try to provide shelter, food, and clothing for those that needed help,” she says with a sense of pride. 

“I joined a group of young people motivated to provide financial and emotional support to those who needed help on the streets. This work gave me the opportunity to travel to different cities with the group. I learned so much because I had to interact with an array of organizations and individuals. I consider this charity work an important milestone that shaped me into the person I have become. I am proud to have helped many in need find sustenance and to have supported countless children.”

The harsh reality of life on the streets was an eye-opening experience. This was a turning point in her life and motivated Ruth to pursue a health science degree. She realized that a  health science degree would provide her with the specialized skills and knowledge to tackle global health issues. However, she needed an affordable and flexible option to advance her education. 

Ruth discovered UoPeople after doing some research and searching for flexible, online programs. She shared with us, “I chose to pursue my Bachelor’s in Health Science at University of the People because it provides high-quality international education at an affordable cost. UoPeople has helped me attain my dreams. I’ve enjoyed learning with such a large global community.”

What does Ruth like best about learning at University of the People? “I like the peer assessment system, the lively discussions, and the easy communication with instructors. The university is a large global one, but I receive the personal attention I would expect from a small community college. I’ve enjoyed chatting and sharing ideas with my peers. I am loving it,” she adds with a smile.  

While earning her Bachelor’s degree in Health Science Ruth is also working part-time. “I am a treasurer in a small association in Addis Ababa. Our goal is to improve the environment. Thanks to asynchronous learning at UoPeople, I can juggle school and my job without stressing,” Ruth explains. 

How does Ruth manage a work life balance? “I won’t say it was smooth at the start, but I learned to manage my time effectively. For example, I often use office breaks to read and finish assignments.”

The health science program at UoPeople has given Ruth an immense head start in her career aspirations. “This degree will make it relatively easier for me to apply for master’s programs in the future,” she explains. Ruth’s professional goal is to further her education in psychology and open an office to help people deal with psychological trauma. 

Ruth chose this path for her life based on her own personal experiences. “The fact that I come from a broken family gives me a deeper understanding of how trauma can affect an individual. I’ve always wanted to work with people to encourage their well-being and happiness,” she adds. 

What advice would Ruth give to those thinking about earning a degree? “Life is short. The future is always unpredictable. Live life to the fullest and chase your goals.”