Amanda Harris

Tribal Affiliation/Ethnic/Racial Backgrounds: 
Dine
Current Position:
Research Assistant with Cardiovascular Disease
Type 2 Diabetes Intervention & Prevention Program
Degree(s):
Bachelor’s of Science in Biology (with minor in Native American Studies) 
Schools Attended:
University of New Mexico 
Area of Focus:
Science, Native American Studies, Health (Prevention)
What motivated you to obtain your educational/career goals?
I am the youngest child in my family. I have always expected more from myself. I am a first generation to attend and graduate from college. My family has been my support and backbone. A main source of motivation was seeing how proud my parents were of me. Also surrounding myself with peers and friends that had similar goals as I; we encouraged one another.
What steps did you take to achieve those goals?
Keeping myself busy and getting myself “out there” by applying for internships or programs that help keeps the motivation flowing. Also, knowing that it was (and is still) okay to ask for help. There are many resources available to assist with all sorts of challenges.
Describe any obstacles or barriers to success that you encountered along your path:
I enjoyed the life of a college student, but sometimes I needed to have family physically by me. So sometimes I had to make a quick trip home, which isn’t always easy with other commitments. I have always known that I wanted a career in health/medicine. This is a broad field with many specialties. I thought about a M.D., nursing, pharmacy, nutrition, etc. Unsure of what specific career path to continue on, I began to have self doubt. But that’s where programs & interacting with people in those respective fields are important. It was easy to lose focus and want to spend more time with friends, but I had to remember why organizations were providing me with funding to go to school.
What advice do you have for college students?
Keep going forward. Stay involved. Stay organized. Be true to yourself. Have fun & enjoy life.
Is there anything else that you want to say?
College is one of the most incredible times of a person’s life. Books, homework, and studying are huge factor but don’t forget to enjoy life and your surroundings. Finding the balance between the two are important. 



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