Skyy Bassett, a senior at Cheltenham High School who is enrolled in Eastern’s Exercise Science and Rehabilitation program, has been chosen for a National Women’s History Month Student Spotlight.
Bassett has been highlighted for her commitment to serve in the field of healthcare after graduation, a decision which has been inspired in part by her mother, currently a Physician Practice Manager for the Sickle Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
“My mom epitomizes strength and serves as my ultimate inspiration,” Bassett said. “She empowers me to pursue my passions and consistently reminds me that with hard work and determination, there are no limits to what I can achieve. Can’t’ simply isn’t part of my vocabulary.”
From their Student Spotlight:
From an early age, Skyy has felt a strong desire to assist others, often engaging in small acts of kindness within her grandmother’s neighborhood. Recognizing this innate inclination, her grandmother consistently affirmed that Skyy’s calling lay within the healthcare realm. Skyy’s personal experience with physical therapy following an injury during an eighth-grade lacrosse game solidified her belief in its transformative power, witnessing firsthand its ability to restore strength and foster independence. Skyy noted that being in the healthcare field may have also stemmed from her mom’s long career of working in the healthcare field and currently working as a Physician Practice Manager for the Sickle Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Learning of the Exercise Science and Rehabilitation program at EASTERN, Skyy embraced the opportunity without hesitation, setting her sights firmly on a path she knew she was meant to follow.
When reflecting on Women’s History Month, Skyy is inspired by the countless women who defied societal expectations and achieved what they were told was impossible. She particularly admires the resilience of her mother, who once commuted daily from Delaware to Philadelphia for work and was always there for her when she needed her. “My mom epitomizes strength and serves as my ultimate inspiration,” Skyy expressed. “She empowers me to pursue my passions and consistently reminds me that with hard work and determination, there are no limits to what I can achieve. “Can’t’ simply isn’t part of my vocabulary.”
Skyy’s advice for those eager to explore specific career paths is simple: “Follow your heart and your dreams.” Reflecting on her own journey, she emphasizes the importance of passion-driven decisions. ” If there’s a career path that truly resonates with you, don’t hesitate – pursue it wholeheartedly.”
At Cheltenham High School, Skyy serves as an officer for the Black Student Union (BSU). In the BSU, she plays a pivotal role in facilitating meetings, brainstorming discussion topics, coordinating Spirit Week initiatives, and orchestrating community service endeavors. Presently, the BSU is assembling essential care packages for a local homeless center and is in the beginning stages of trying to organize a blood drive to support the Sickle Cell Center at CHOP. “Sickle cell disease is most prevalent among individuals of African descent and the patients are in need of blood donations,” noted Skyy.
Skyy intends to pursue a four-year college education with a focus on Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or Sports Medicine. While she is still contemplating her choice of institution, her top preference is Howard University, where she aims to delve into Human Performance with a specialization in Sports Medicine. Her ultimate career aspiration is to blend two professional paths: that of an Athletic Trainer and a Chiropractor.
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Photo: Eastern