Greetings, Science Cheerleader readers! Here’s an interview with Kelly, a registered nurse and former St. Louis Rams cheerleader!
Which came first, your interest in science or cheerleading?
I have always loved dancing and cheerleading but knew in the back of my mind, I needed an education. Cheerleading was just “what I did”-always auditioning for something. My education kept my feet on the ground.
Best part of your day job?
I am an educator for a medical device. I spend all of my time in the operating room with anesthesia. I have such a wonderful product that really improves patient outcomes–I just can’t wait to teach everyone about it.
Do you find that stereotypes about cheerleaders have helped or hindered your professional experiences?
I was proud to be a cheerleader. It was a requirement that we all had a degree or were going to school. I felt that we were all taken seriously, and that has only helped me in my career.
What teams did you cheer for, how long did you cheer for them, and why did you try out to be a professional cheerleader?
I started my cheerleading career in my younger years by cheering for 3 years for the St. Louis Storm, our indoor soccer team at the time. I tried out for the Rams because of my love of dance. It was the inaugural year for the Rams in St. Louis which made it that much more exciting.
Do you have any advice for youngsters who might feel torn between following one dream and another?
I believe you can have it all. Dream big. Education first or simultaneously, with your other lifetime goals.
Along these lines, what advice would you give your 12-year-old self?
Education, education, education and then extracurricular interests.
What are your plans for the future?
I really enjoy my job. I am looking into furthering my acting/modeling/fitness career on the side.
Best cheerleading experience?
I really enjoyed the charity events. I think it is great to use an avenue like a professional sport to bring attention to charities.
Best science-related experience?
I used to work in a surgery center for cataract patients. I love old people and their personalities. They would come in for surgery so tense and come out of surgery so excited that they could see. Very fulfilling.
What’s one thing people might find especially surprising about you?
I am fiercely strong for my size. 🙂 Somewhat of a joke. I think people are sometimes surprised that I am educated and I know what I am talking about when it comes to medicine.
If you could rewind the clock and change your degree, would you?
I would not change my career path but I would love to add law into the mix and do risk management for hospitals.
Why do you want to be a Science Cheerleader?
It combines both of my passions-cheerleading and education. It bring positive attention to both whether you are an adolescent trying to make choices about education/dreams or stuck in a rut at 50. You can dream big and make it come true. 🙂