<p><span class="p-body">For Fathima Ballee, the vibrant energy of the Bronx has always been intertwined with a passion for healthcare and love for reading, writing, baking, cooking, and shopping. Ballee's well-rounded character and inquisitive spirit shine through in her favorite subject, biology, “because I like learning about the science of life.” Ballee recognizes that “NYU’s access to opportunities…can contribute to professional growth.&quot;</span> </p>

<p><span class="p-body">Applied coursework and real world experiences have been particularly impactful for Fathima so far, especially the Career Pathway Bridge Program’s employer visits, where she spoke with professionals across various industries, occupations, and levels of leadership. &quot;I’ve learned a lot about many different careers in different fields through the site visits I participated in,&quot; Ballee explains. &quot;This was so impactful because now I know what I like and dislike in a job,&quot; helping her identify green and red flags in the pursuit of a career in the healthcare industry after graduation.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body"><b>Navigating Challenges Through Organizational &amp; Support Systems</b></span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Balancing the demands of NYU coursework with two part-time jobs presents its challenges and “can get very overwhelming at times…But I've learned that time management helps me stay organized, meet deadlines, and avoid burnout. Being disciplined with my time helps me to stay on top of my responsibilities and keep moving toward my goals.&quot;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">The Career Pathways Bridge Program provides a reliable support system for Ballee. She describes the environment as “so welcoming and warm,” noting that she “...was so scared to come here at first because I didn't know if I was going to find my people or fit in but I ended up making so many friends and genuinely feel like I belong here.&quot; A standout memory from her time in the Bridge Program “was the amazing orientation week, especially the day we took on a ropes course… That experience really helped me bond with people in my cohort and pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way.&quot;</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">For those embarking on their NYU SPS journey, Ballee offers practical and encouraging advice. &quot;I would say to take advantage of all the opportunities here: tutoring, academic advising, the Wasserman Center and more because they are&nbsp; extremely helpful.” Beyond the formal resources, she highlights the importance of human connection: &quot;Build connections with your peers, professors, and staff because they are all here to support you!&quot;</span> </p>