Cassidy Hale has persevered through numerous obstacles and is finishing her undergraduate career strong.

Hale has pursued a degree in biomedical sciences with a concentration in environmental public health. She first began her education at Colorado State University in the fall of 2016 as a first-generation student.

Moving away from her hometown of Aztec, New Mexico, was a core goal of Hale’s after experiencing difficulties at home. Hale was estranged from her parents and relied on the support of extended family members for guidance.

“I didn’t know what to do with financial aid,” Hale said. “I didn’t know the culture of a university. It was a big learning curve, so it took a long time for me to really understand the importance of reaching out for help and finding the right resources.”

Hale originally began her studies as a psychology major before diving into her passion for health and humanity. She also participated in events through the Environmental Health Student Association from time to time.

“I think that’s one thing that my major has given me is this passion for how the environment interacts with human health,” Hale said.

In the fall of 2019, due to personal circumstances, Hale left CSU to prioritize her well-being. She would return in the fall of 2022 after reconnecting with extended family that offered to assist in finishing her undergraduate education.

When Hale returned, she held true to earning her degree with a new perspective. She also set the goal of making the dean’s list every semester, which she has successfully achieved since.

In addition to outside factors impacting Hale’s undergraduate route, she also had to navigate troubling financial aid agreements and appreciates the resources her academic advisor provided. Although she wishes she started her college career with a better idea of university life and financial aspects, she believes it all happened for a reason.

“If things don’t work out, it’s not the end of the world,” Hale said. “It feels very much like if college doesn’t work out or if some class doesn’t work out or, you know, something doesn’t go the right way that it might be the end of the world, but it’s really not. When one door closes, the next one opens, and you’ve just got to be kind of open to other things and other opportunities.” 

Following graduation, Hale wants to pursue medical school or a Ph.D. program with a focus on treatment or research for radiation therapy for cancer.