Samantha Laughlin is a Pre Respiratory Therapy major from Wardsville, Missouri. After graduation, she wants to work at University Hospital in the NICU or work with patients who have been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. 

“I chose Mizzou because everybody on campus was so welcoming. Every person I met was so willing to chat about anything college-related, and I fell in love with the campus,” she says, “I chose my program because I have always wanted to go into the medical field, but didn’t want to be a surgeon or a physician. I met with a respiratory therapist and she told me about her career and the Mizzou program. I took Intro to Respiratory Therapy my freshman year and fell in love with the program and decided that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.” 

Other than being a CHS ambassador, Samantha works a part-time job at a pharmacy in Columbia. This allows her to build up her patient care experience and form relationships with other students who also work there. 

Why did you want to pursue a career in healthcare?

My mother is a nurse, so I grew up constantly watching her help people or hearing stories about her career. I grew up knowing that I wanted to pursue a degree where I got to help others every day,  just like her. 

What is your best advice for incoming Mizzou CHS students?

Don’t be scared to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people. It can be intimidating when you walk into a class with lots of people, but if you meet one person and form a relationship with them, it makes going to class much easier and enjoyable. 

What is your favorite restaurant in Columbia?

My favorite restaurant in Columbia is Fuzzy’s Taco Shop. They have the best tacos ever and the atmosphere is really fun! 

What is your favorite study spot on campus?

My favorite spot to study on campus is the upper level of the Student Center because it is quieter than the main level and has tons of comfy chairs.