Sonography Student Inspired by Care, Driven to Give Back

Kara Gerard discovered her passion for healthcare at a young age as a patient herself in Green Bay. She was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was 10 years old. While kids her age were worrying about school or their own friends, Kara was also learning how to manage a chronic illness.

Her healthcare team growing up helped Kara learn how to manage her diabetes and explained things in a way that put her at ease.

“While the experience was often overwhelming and intimidating, it became the foundation for my desire to pursue a career in healthcare,” she said.

Like the comfort and patience shown to her as a child, Kara hopes to help others too. She realized she had a passion for pediatric echocardiography at Bellin College and wants to help children and families navigate their own health.

At the college, Kara has been able to get hands-on experiences to learn and delve into her field during clinicals. She loves the relationships and confidence she has built through her relationships with instructors.

Having to juggle work, studies, and diabetes has taught Kara how to adapt and stay determined. There are days when blood sugar fluctuations, medical appointments, or physical fatigue make balancing academics more difficult.

She still excelled, earning a spot on the dean’s list every semester and becoming a Peer Academic Coach for Bellin College’s Center for Academic Success, Teaching, and Learning Excellence (CASTLE). She also participated in a mission trip to Virginia to provide free medical imaging services.

Adding financial worries to Kara’s studies can make her education more challenging, but the Wisconsin Grant has made a significant difference. It helped her with the expenses that come with the degree and made her education more attainable.

“This grant has allowed me to focus more on my education rather than worrying as much about the financial side of college,” Kara said. “It has given me the opportunity to continue pursuing my passion for sonography and work toward a career where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children.”

Kara plans to graduate from Bellin College with a degree in Cardiovascular Diagnostic Medical Sonography in 2027. She hopes to work in a children’s hospital or clinic as a pediatric sonographer, combining her interest with echocardiography to care for children and their families.

“I hope to provide others with the same sense of comfort and trust that I received as a child,” she said.

Check out Kara’s story in WAICU’s Achievers newsletter in October!