For most people, finding a silver lining amidst a sudden medical crisis can be incredibly difficult. But not for Nicole. During high school, she woke up one day unable to move her left arm or leg. Through tireless physical therapy, Nicole regained mobility. But instead of deflating Nicole’s spirits, this difficult time in her life sparked a dream to one day use her experience to help others recover from similar circumstances.

Nicole interned as a medical assistant with an orthopedic surgeon to better understand how prosthetic and orthotic devices improve the quality of life for individuals with limb loss or limb difference. She learned the importance of customizing devices to suit patients’ needs to help them move better.

Nicole looks forward to completing her master's in prosthetics and orthotics at Northwestern University. After graduation, she is excited to start her residency at a clinic in York, Pennsylvania and help educate the next generation of POP professionals.