CHS Student Says Participation Leads to ‘Personal,’ and ‘Professional Growth’

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

Kaile Alford comes from a family of Kentucky basketball fans. And athletics was originally her ticket to Lexington as well.

But since joining the University of Kentucky, the Clinical Leadership and Management major has become so much more. She has taken advantage of the opportunity to serve on student and professional groups, all the while playing for UK’s soccer team.

It’s important, she says, because participating in these extracurriculars helps you grow personally and professionally.

“These opportunities help you build a network, gain valuable insights beyond the classroom, and learn more,” said Alford, a 21-year-old senior from Murfreesboro, Tenn. “For me, getting involved has strengthened my leadership skills, broadened my understanding of the healthcare field, and provided hands-on experiences that align with my career goals.”

Whether it’s being a CHS student ambassador, Captain of the Junior Varsity Women’s Soccer team, or Outreach Chair of the Healthcare Administration Student Association (HASA), Alford knows about leadership and excelling at UK.

We caught up with her to ask about her interests, and what advice she would give to others. Here’s five questions with … CHS senior Kaile Alford:

Why did you come to UK:

I chose to come to the University of Kentucky because it was the perfect balance of being far enough from home to challenge me, yet close enough to my family. The opportunity to step out of my comfort zone was something I was excited about. UK’s beautiful campus was so inviting. Receiving a scholarship from UK made the decision even more appealing. I also have family from Kentucky, and attending UK feels like continuing a tradition of connection to the state.
Growing up hearing stories about the university’s legacy — especially its basketball program — has made this experience even more meaningful. My great-grandfather, a lifelong UK basketball fan, would be thrilled to know I’m continuing the family connection by attending UK and having the opportunity to play the sport I love for this amazing University.

Why did you decide on healthcare and your major?

My passion for healthcare stems from a deep commitment to health equity and the desire to impact patient outcomes meaningfully. I’m driven by the opportunity to address disparities in access to care and advance patient treatment through innovative solutions and evidence-based practices. My experiences in diverse healthcare settings have strengthened my desire to leverage my skills to improve patient quality of life. I’m motivated to use my leadership abilities to improve care delivery.
I chose my Clinical Leadership and Management major because I’ve always wanted to work in the healthcare field, though I wasn’t initially sure if I wanted a hands-on clinical role. This major offers the ideal balance between business strategy and clinical insight, providing a wide range of career possibilities upon graduation. The curriculum equips you with the skills needed for various healthcare positions, focusing on preparing you for leadership and administrative roles in healthcare settings.

What’s the best part about being in CHS?

The best part about being in the College of Health Sciences is the strong sense of community, invaluable mentorship, and abundant learning and growth opportunities. The supportive environment creates collaboration and personal development while faculty and professionals guide your career path. The college also offers excellent networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with industry leaders and peers.
Overall, the College of Health Sciences is where you can thrive academically, professionally, and personally, setting you up for success in the healthcare field.

Why is it important to be involved in professional groups and other extracurriculars?

Being involved in professional groups and extracurriculars is important for personal and professional growth. It’s also helped me build confidence, grow my professional network, and develop the ability to balance multiple responsibilities.
I’d just like to emphasize how important it is to remain open to new opportunities and always to be willing to learn. No matter where you are in your studies, there’s always something to be gained from the people around you and the experiences you have.

What do you want to do in the future?

In the future, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and transition into the pharmaceutical industry, where I aim for a leadership role. I’m also interested in medical device sales, as I see great potential in combining innovative technology with healthcare solutions. My goal is to drive progress in both fields, enhancing patient care and outcomes.

BONUS: What advice would you give to someone who wanted to go down a similar path?

My advice for anyone looking to follow a similar path is to actively build strong relationships with your professors. They’re a fantastic resource for guidance, mentorship, and professional connections. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them. Additionally, I highly recommend seeking out summer internship opportunities. Gaining real-world experience strengthens your resume and helps you apply what you learn in the classroom to practical situations. Networking is also key.
Attend networking events and career fairs will allow you to meet professionals in your field of interest, learn about emerging trends, and secure job opportunities. Finally, take full advantage of the College of Health Sciences' opportunities. Whether through campus organizations, research projects, or leadership roles, getting involved will allow you to grow personally and professionally while expanding your network and skill set.
I’m always open to offering support, making connections, or providing advice whenever needed. I encourage people not to hesitate to reach out to me, and I'm always open to talking!