Our Students

Alex Pham, a Doctor of Chiropractic student at University of Western States, is originally from Vancouver, Washington. He holds degrees in Kinesiology and Athletic Training, with hands-on experience providing care for various sports teams. Now the Associated Student Body president at UWS, Pham was drawn to the university’s evidence-based approach to chiropractic care, aiming to challenge negative perceptions of the field. Passionate about the idea that “movement is medicine,” he hopes to empower patients in their recovery. After graduation, Pham plans to complete a residency and work for the VA in Seattle, supporting veterans, a cause he holds close.

Heather Stern, a 2023 graduate of The Colleges of Law, is a committed advocate for justice. Inspired by her own seven-year custody battle, Heather understands the challenges many face in accessing legal representation. This experience fueled her desire to bridge the “justice gap” and make the promise of “justice for all” a reality. Known for her strong voice and commitment to debate, Heather completed the rigorous 32-month Hybrid Juris Doctorate program. Now, she is dedicated to using her legal education to create fair outcomes for underserved communities, aiming to make the law a tool for positive change.

Margareta Anthonius came to the U.S. from Indonesia in 2018, fulfilling her long-held dream of studying abroad. Despite early setbacks and pandemic disruptions to her plans, she found a supportive environment at Pacific Oaks in the Human Development program, which encouraged her to embrace her role as a cultural ambassador. Determined to make the most of her time, Margareta is focused on building leadership skills and becoming an advocate for diversity and positive change.

Lt. Col. Ryan McGill, a retired U.S. Army officer with 26 years of service, is now studying at Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KansasCOM) to advance his medical expertise for serving veterans. A senior physician assistant, McGill has extensive experience from deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Africa. Calling his KansasCOM acceptance a “lottery ticket,” he received full support from his superiors for this career pivot. At 45, he brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his studies, hoping to serve Kansas veterans through the Veterans Health Administration as a tribute to the military community that shaped his life.

Pooja Das, an international student from India, is pursuing a master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology at The Chicago School. With a background in education and psychology, she’s passionate about organizational improvement. Though her H-4 visa limits work opportunities, Das volunteers actively, tutoring Chicago Public Schools students and supporting Gilda’s Club Chicago. Recognized by her professors for adding cultural diversity and valuable insights, she also serves as a World Business Chicago student ambassador, contributing to community initiatives. Das is adapting enthusiastically to life in the U.S. and aims for a future in HR leadership and training.

Derek Kee-Haynes, a Ph.D. candidate in Integrative Social Work at Saybrook University, took an unconventional path to his current role. Initially pursuing fashion and dance, Kee-Haynes later found his calling in social work, inspired by his experiences as a Black gay man and pivotal moments like the election of Barack Obama. Facing health challenges, he went on to earn two master’s degrees, blending social work with depth psychology. Now the Clinical Services Director at Tranquil Shores, he focuses on culturally sensitive addiction recovery and uses psychodrama to address racial trauma. Kee-Haynes expects to complete his Ph.D. in 2026.