Where did you attend high school and college?

HS: Peoria Notre Dame (IL)

College: Bradley University (Peoria, IL)

What co curricular activities did you participate in during high school and college?

HS: Student Council, Tennis, Cheerleading, Key Club (volunteer organization)

College: Gamma Phi Beta (sorority), Fellows (leadership and service organization), Bradley Nursing Student Association

What motivated you to work in the medical field and here at the high school?

I always had a passion for math, science, and helping others in any way I can. My background prior to being at MNSD was working in oncology (cancer) and pediatrics (kids) in a hospital. I really enjoyed my time working with kids who were hospitalized. I quickly realized that when my patients got out of the hospital they spent the majority of their day at school. I saw how their health had a significant impact on their school day. Student health and overall wellness is such an important aspect of the bigger picture of the life of a student. I wanted to be a voice to highlight this importance.

Do you have any advice for high school students?

In your role as a student, it is important that you are both physically and emotionally healthy. Good health is necessary to effectively live your life. Find activities you enjoy that will have a positive impact on your well-being. Never be afraid to take up a new hobby…. Try a new exercise like yoga. Run a race. Read a book (not because you have to). Take more opportunities to take deep breaths. Quit drinking soda. Volunteer!

High school and college can be busy, fun, and stressful all at the same time. Learn ways to control your stress and continue to incorporate healthy behaviors and activities into your daily routine.  Getting good grades, focusing in class, and balancing your busy schedule will be easier if you maintain this healthy lifestyle. Never lose sight of the fact that you have one body and one body only, treat it right!

When asked about her co-workers, Hynning stated-

Having only one nurse in our entire school district, we would not be able to manage our day to day tasks and hands-on care of students without our Health Room Aides. They are WONDERFUL and a super important asset to the health of students in MNSD.