About Me

     Hello! My name is Yahir Nunez-Leija. I am a student at Clemson University and I come
from Lexington, South Carolina. As I near the end of my college journey and look back on all
the moments that have influenced my dreams and ambitions in the healthcare field, I feel a mix of excitement and gratitude for all the lessons learned. This has helped me move one step closer to my academic and career goals.

     I am majoring in Language & International Health where I am working towards a
Bachelor of Science degree with a focus on Spanish studies. This particular blend enables me to explore health challenges while also enhancing my ability to communicate with groups of
people. I plan to start physical therapy school in May 2025 because I am passionate about helping individuals restore mobility and improve their well-being. I will also be able to combine my cultural heritage with my professional skills to improve the lives of those under my care.
     My experiences in school and beyond have strengthened my skills and shaped my unique perspective. One thing that has always helped me is my ability to bounce back from situations – this quality of resilience has been key in handling the demands of classes while also making sure I have a well rounded life outside of academics. Accountability and reliability motivate me to meet deadlines and honor commitments. My time management has also been crucial in helping me balance my studies with extracurriculars while also working a job. Studying abroad has really boosted my understanding of issues and given me the chance to experience diverse cultures firsthand and expand my views on international health matters. As a Hispanic male, I bring a distinct perspective to healthcare that allows me to connect with diverse patients and advocate for marginalized communities. Having fluency in both English and Spanish allows me to connect with individuals from many backgrounds. Not only does this strengthen my credibility as someone knowledgeable about global matters, but also empowers me to speak up for marginalized groups within the healthcare setting.
     I see accountability as an essential in a work/school environment because it's about taking
responsibility for my choices and how that affects those around me. Empathy and selflessness
shape how I engage with patients, coworkers and peers. They serve as reminders of the
significance of seeing things from others’ viewpoints. When I go to graduate school and continue on this journey , I will incorporate these principles in my work. They will help me build a welcoming atmosphere where each patient is appreciated and understood.
     In wrapping up my thoughts about it all, I believe my background and values shape my
career and academic goals in a very important way. As I get ready to start my path towards
becoming a physical therapist, I am dedicated to using my experiences and cultural perspectives to create a positive impact in the healthcare field. By building connections with communities and advocating for healthcare, my aim is to contribute towards a healthier future for everyone. As graduation draws near I am excited about the possibilities that await me and the opportunity to make my dreams a reality.