Natalie Myer
International Vice President - Division III
Natalie Myer, International Vice President - Division III, has found a way to combine her desire to work in healthcare and public policy - after completing a master's degree in nursing and public health, she will pursue a law degree.
"I would like to use my experience and knowledge in the healthcare system to influence laws and regulations dealing with healthcare, Medicare, and healthcare reform," Natalie said. She plans an eventual career in public service, either with the judicial, legislative or federal branches.
Natalie originally attended a huge metropolitan university. She excelled in her studies but felt the school wasn't the right choice. When she dropped out due to the death of a family member, she had no incentive to return, and eventually became a firefighter. Despite her success in that field, Natalie was drawn to nursing and chose Ivy Tech Community College's Lafayette Campus, based on its convenience and affordability.
She found all that and much more.
"As I obtained my nursing degree, I found that my community college enabled me to interact and engage with other students and the community. My involvement changed me for the better. My teachers and the staff knew me on a personal basis, which gave me confidence to reach for dreams I thought I had left back in high school. Ivy Tech Community College broadened my horizon on issues such as today's news and volunteering opportunities that I never saw at the university."
Ivy Tech also introduced Natalie to Phi Theta Kappa. She accepted her invitation and right away became involved. "I learned that I was part of an organization with a much bigger impact than I thought, and I used what I learned to educate others on campus about the Society and to build on my own Phi Theta Kappa Experience."
Due to the fact that community colleges offer multiple programs in a variety of careers, and because their flexibility in changing current workforce demands, their enrollment has greatly increased, Natalie pointed out. "This increase in enrollment is, in my opinion, the most important issue that community college students face. I believe in the future that job placement will be a major concern to community college students."
Natalie is president of the Student Government Association and serves as a Student Ambassador. She is an accomplished rider, participates in horse shows and volunteers at a children's therapeutic riding center.
Her interests include photography, reading, camping and athletics. She has been awarded various scholarships for her service to her college and Phi Theta Kappa. Natalie received the Indiana Region's outstanding chapter president award, and has also served as an Indiana regional officer.
