Jasmine Gutierrez graduated with a degree in Speech & Hearing Sciences, plus a Nutritional Sciences Minor.
How did it feel to get in to the UW?
When I got my accepted, I knew that I was one step closer to getting the education my parents and I always dreamed I would receive. All of my hard work was starting to pay off. Even though there were many people who supported and believed in me, I proved to myself that I could do it since the initial hurdle of getting into a prestigious university was now behind me.
Why study nutritional sciences?
I have come to believe that health is one of the most important things to take care of. However, not everyone is equipped with information to make educated decisions about what to put into their bodies to make themselves as healthy as they can be. Also, I love food! The science behind the textures, colors, nutrients and tastes of food is extremely interesting to me.
What are your professional goals?
I want to be a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Nutrition is not something that physical therapists usually consult their patients about, but I believe they go hand in hand. Without the proper nutrition, the body has a more challenging time performing the way we would like it to. Knowing more about nutrition will help me better care for my future patients.
Any advice for prospective students?
Take advantage of the time you have at UW to try new things and really get to know yourself. There are so many opportunities to network and to get new perspectives while on campus.
Tell us about serving as a reservist.
Serving in the U.S. Army Reserves has given me another group of friends, mentors and supporters, who have helped me to realize that my goals are attainable so long as I put in the work. Being in the reserves while in school has also taught me the value of time management.
Tell us something quirky or unusual about yourself.
I can be quite the adrenaline junky, so I love to do anything that sounds fun to me at the time, such as ziplining, canyoning and bungee jumping. I also love being with family, so anytime I can visit my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews, I do it.