Mary-Kate zigzagged through healthcare by shadowing physicians, eye doctors and nurses, trying to find a career that clicked. One day in high school, her sister returned from a school trip to a POP clinic and told Mary-Kate that she needed to explore the profession. As her sister described POP’s unique blend of healthcare and engineering, Mary-Kate knew she wanted to observe the profession herself.

She coordinated shadowing days at a local clinic and was captivated by the way POP professionals work closely with their patients to meet mobility needs and goals. The experience inspired Mary-Kate to study biology in undergrad and pursue her master’s in orthotics and prosthetics at Drexel University.

Mary-Kate works as an orthotic resident at Gainesville Prosthetics, alongside fellow POP Ambassador Cara Negri, CP, learning everything she can to help pediatric patients move better. She was inspired to become a POP Ambassador after discovering WhatIsPOP stickers around campus and speaking with her professor, who recommended she get involved.