Photo Credit: San Francisco 49ers
Hello, Science Cheerleader fans! As part of NFL Playoff season, we are interviewing some of the current professional cheerleaders who are cheering their teams in the playoffs while also pursuing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Read on to learn more about Kimberly, a financial management consultant and member of the San Francisco 49ers Gold Rush Cheerleaders squad.
How did you get interested in science/engineering?
I have always loved animals since I was young, with a strong curiosity of the natural world. Most notably, after learning that earthworms regenerate after being cut in half in elementary school, I promptly spent the afternoon in my backyard digging up and cutting up our annelid friends. This propensity evolved into an interest in healthcare, translating to a B.S. in Health Promotion & Disease Prevention. As for my B.S. in Business Administration, I fell into the degree after enjoying the strategic nature of my business, finance, and operations classes. Unable to choose between science and business, I decided to pursue both!
Who had the most influence on your career choice?
My mom is easily my biggest influence. Her affect was not necessarily pushing me towards one specific career choice, but more importantly allowing me to explore all of my interests. She has remained steadfast and supportive throughout all the ups and downs of my studies and career. Thank you, Mom!
Photo Credit: San Francisco 49ers
How would you describe what you do?
I am a Finance Transformation Consultant, working primarily within the Healthcare & Life Sciences industry. As a consultant, I am staffed on various client projects to assist in improving their business. More specifically, my service line focuses on helping CFOs achieve his or her financial agenda, which can include supporting M&A [merger and acquisition] deals, implementing new financial systems, and more! I find working in healthcare, on such strategic decisions, particularly rewarding.
How do you integrate your career with being a professional cheerleader?
Being a professional cheerleader serves as a perfect release from my corporate career. While juggling the two does require a fair amount of time-management, I always remind myself to be 100% committed to the task at hand—whether that means creating a financial model in the office, or practicing a brand-new halftime routine in the studio. There is nothing better than decompressing from a long workweek than spending my weekends with the most supportive teammates, in our beautiful Levi’s Stadium.
What’s your favorite part about your studies/job?
At the end of the day, I consider myself a problem-solver. I appreciate how I am always able to learn something new and work with various teams to achieve the ideal solutions.
What’s been the best experience as an NFL cheerleader?
I love being part of such an extraordinary group of women (babes supporting babes!) within Gold Rush, as well as being part of the greater sisterhood of NFL cheerleaders across the country. I will never tire of performing for the best fans in the NFL– 49ers Faithful!
What’s one thing people would find surprising about you?
In an attempt to satiate my curiosity of Marine Biology, I am SCUBA-certified and have gone diving all across the globe. There is always more ocean to explore. 🙂