Service-learning co-op leads to meaningful full-time job for UC grad

Ryley Jones came to the University of Cincinnati to study nursing but discovered in her first year that she didn’t like the major.

“I was good at science, but I wasn’t super passionate about it. I was interested in health care and in helping people, but I was more interested in the communication aspect,” she says.

With nursing off the table, Ryley had to pivot quickly. Through an exploratory course, she discovered UC’s health promotion and education program, which focuses on using public education campaigns to promote healthy choices. Jones hadn’t known such a thing existed, but she says “it was exactly what I was looking for.”

In addition, during her internship Jones took a reflection course that “solidified everything for me. The most helpful part of the course was taking the interest, strengths and personality tests. It helped me know that I had made the right decision and that this is where I fit in.”

With that confidence, Jones started a full-time job as a program coordinator with PreventionFIRST last month, just a week after she graduated.

Grateful for how UC helped her find — and fund — her path toward a fulfilling career, Jones says, “I would encourage every student to take advantage of the Service-Learning Co-op program if they can.”

Featured image at top: Ryley Jones, center, with PreventionFIRST colleagues Julia Kyser, left, and Marisa Detore at the organization’s 25th annual awards luncheon and fundraiser in April 2022. Photo/Provided.