Kirsty Bernal, Young Professionals Advisory Council Member on Influential Women

Influential Woman · Public health

Kirsty Bernal

Young Professionals Advisory Council Member, Children First

Philadelphia, PA

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree MPH at University of Pennsylvania Degree Studied medicine for 6 years in Colombia Member Young Professional Advisory Council of Children First

Her Story

About Kirsty

Kirsty Bernal has 10 years of experience in the health field. Her background includes clinical work, research, and public health. She is the Program Coordinator of the Homeless Health Initiative at CHOP in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she brings clinical and non-clinical care to shelters. Kirsty is affiliated with the Young Professional Advisory Council of Children First. She earned her MPH at the University of Pennsylvania after studying medicine for six years in Colombia. Her work has included supporting autism families and Spanish-speaking communities in Philadelphia, as well as research in New York. She has volunteered with Indigenous communities in Colombia, providing medical support and teaching Spanish, and has built homes for low-income people.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Kirsty

01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

It's okay not to know exactly what you want to do. It's okay to try different paths and find your way, especially when transitioning from another country like Colombia where the only path seemed to be clinical doctor. Be compassionate with yourself and use it as a way to connect with and get to know yourself better instead of judging yourself.

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