Nadia Barrera is in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Governors State University. She was inspired to implement an after-school mentoring program dedicated to educating students on careers and fields of study related to the healthcare field. She believes that representation in healthcare is extremely important in communities of color, so she aims to inspire and educate students at Back of the Yards College Prep on the various roles in healthcare and how they can be a part of this field one day. Nadia will implement workshops and activities to helps students plan a successful academic future and provide resources related to college and career readiness with an emphasis on healthcare. They will discuss topics such as applying to college, preparing for interviews, career exploration and ways to develop effective study and time management skills. SHe plans to provide students with opportunities for shadowing experiences, field trips and career fairs as well. Nadia hopes to raise $500 for materials that will used for workshops and activities such as binders, folders, whiteboards, planners, art supplies, poster boards and snacks.

Each year family, friends, and the community come together to support Schweitzer Fellows as they begin to implement innovative public service projects in Chicago’s most vulnerable communities. Our 2020-21 Fellows have created online “wish lists” of supplies and resources that will help them realize their service project goals.