Humans of NHC: Abigail Prado

Lea Cha, an NHC CC member serving in Stockton, CA hosts a Q&A with NHC CC member, Abigail Prado, currently serving in Fresno, and originally serving in Sacramento. 

How has your career path gone, and why did you choose to serve in AmeriCorps?

I graduated from California State University, Bakersfield in 2022 with my Bachelor’s in Biochemistry. During my time as a college student, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to be a research assistant and teacher assistant for my biochemistry professors. This allowed me to work closely alongside my mentors where I was able to learn more about my career options after graduating. After graduating, I’ve had the opportunity to work in multiple environmental laboratories in the Central Valley. However, I noticed I wanted to be on the front lines of public health instead of doing “behind the scenes” work. Then I came across AmeriCorps and read the descriptions/testimonies from previous service members. The one piece of information that stuck out to me the most was seeing the work past members did and the impact they had in their community. I realized I would love to help out more in the Central Valley. 

How has serving as an AmeriCorps member made you realize what your career goals are?

I worked as a care coordinator. I was able to shadow an infectious disease doctor, PA, clinical pharmacist, walk-in receptionist, medical case managers, non-medical case managers, gender health coordinator, gender health navigators, a PrEP navigator, and a health educator. Being able to shadow and learn everyone’s roles has helped me gain a different perspective on the healthcare profession. Every person’s role is important in order to help every patient that comes into the clinic. Being the first contact for our patients is important in order to gain trust.

What inspires you to continue doing what you are currently doing?

The relationship between the patients that come into the clinic - Helping patients find a way to pay for their medication to escorting them to their appointments. The support of my coworkers and supervisor allows me to be able to provide the best care for every patient that comes through.