A Passion for Science
Since moving from California to Utah at the age of 10, Kate Johnson, has been enjoying the outdoor activities Utah has to offer. From kayaking and mountain biking to hiking and skiing, Kate has a passion for nature.
However, Kate's passion doesn't stop with the outdoors; she is equally dedicated to the field of science. "Many of my classes didn’t hold my attention, but science and learning about the human body, I’m just drawn to," she said. And this is what lead Kate to consider a career in healthcare.
At first, Kate wasn’t too sure if studying surgical tech was the right path to follow. "I actually heard about the surgical tech program from my mom, but I thought it was too good to be true,” said Kate. “But then I learned more about the program and found out about the Metallica Scholars Initiative scholarship and thought, ‘Yes! This is what I’m applying for!’ It just all came together.”
Kate is currently enrolled in the early enrollment program at SLCC while she completes her senior year of high school. In May 2024, she will graduate high school and then go on to graduate from SLCC at the end of the Fall 2024 semester with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in surgical technology. “By being in the early enrollment program, I get to graduate from both high school and college within the same year!” said Kate.
The news of being selected as a Metallica Scholars Initiative scholarship recipient was a surreal moment for Kate. "When I found out I had been awarded the scholarship, I was like 'this must be a dream!' I get to study what I enjoy and pursue what I’m passionate about AND get a scholarship to do so?"
Students in the early enrollment classes do not qualify for federal financial aid. This leaves many students having to find other ways to pay for their education. The Metallica Scholars Initiative scholarship helps students who take early enrollment classes at SLCC as well as for those who take the traditional college path pay for tuition, school fees and tools required to complete the surgical technology degree program.
The impact of the scholarship extends beyond financial support, however; it has influenced Kate's academic performance. "This scholarship has made me a better student," she said. "Because someone believes in me, I’m doing better in my classes."
As a fellow Metallica fan like her dad, Kate wants the band to know the profound impact they're making on her education. "I want them to know they are helping me get an education, allowing me to become the person I want to be and contribute to the workforce."
Kate envisions numerous possibilities for her future in the field of surgical technology. “I am interested in working in the operating room or continuing my education and becoming a specialist or surgeon,” said Kate. “There are so many different directions I can go with a surgical technology career, and I’m excited to see where it will take me!”