Health science is a broad and rapidly growing field that encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including community wellness, exercise physiology, audiology and clinical nutrition. It offers many opportunities for students interested in improving lives through health care, especially when undergraduate and graduate pathways are thoughtfully connected. 

“Students who pursue health science degrees or follow a pre-health pathway are afforded opportunities to prepare for graduate education through participation in on-campus clinics, pre-health advising and job shadowing,” said Kelly Lootz, Pacific’s director of graduate enrollment. “These opportunities open the door for students to explore graduate and professional education options early, giving them time to ensure they apply to the right program and fit the prerequisite requirements into their undergraduate studies.” 

Some universities offer structured pre-health pathways to guide students through their undergraduate degrees and into graduate-level training in fields such as physical therapy, dentistry, pharmacy or other health sciences. Students can even accelerate their programs of study, allowing them to graduate early and begin professional school sooner. 

“The biggest mistake I see students make is not working with the on-campus pre-health adviser or academic counselor,” Lootz said. “These professionals will work to ensure you meet the prerequisite requirements for your chosen graduate or professional program. By meeting with them early in your undergraduate career, you can plan your program of study to fit in the prerequisites needed for your intended program.” 

Undergraduate degrees 

Undergraduate health science programs tailored to specific areas of interest in health, wellness and medicine include: 

Health and exercise sciences: This program combines biology, physiology and kinesiology to prepare students for careers in physical therapy, athletic training and medical school. 

Human performance: Focused on optimizing movement and health, this major explores exercise science, performance coaching and rehabilitation science. 

Public health and community wellness: Students learn how to design and promote health programs for diverse communities, providing ideal preparation for work in public health, nonprofits and social services. 

Speech-language pathology: This bachelor’s degree is the foundation for becoming a speech-language pathologist. Students are introduced to communication sciences and disorders. 

Entry-level jobs for a bachelor’s degree in health science 

Health science majors who enter the workforce directly after their undergraduate degree can find meaningful work in clinical, community and business settings. Typical entry-level roles include: 

• Occupational therapy assistant: Assist patients in developing or recovering the skills necessary for daily living and working under the supervision of an occupational therapist. 

• Medical lab technician: Perform laboratory tests and procedures that assist physicians in diagnosing and treating diseases. 

• Audiology technician: Support audiologists by conducting basic hearing tests and maintaining equipment. 

• Medical assistant: Perform administrative and basic clinical tasks in hospitals, clinics, or physicians’ offices. 

• Community health specialist: Educate communities about healthy behaviors and connect people to local health resources. 

• Health care social worker: Assist patients in understanding diagnoses, navigating care systems, and accessing support services. 

• Health science writer: Create content on health topics for websites, medical publications or public health campaigns. 

• Pharmaceutical sales representative: Educate health care professionals about new medications and medical products. 

• Patient care advocate: Support patients by helping them understand treatment options, coordinate care and navigate insurance issues. 

Job outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in health care occupations will grow 13% from 2021 to 2031, significantly faster than the average for all occupations, resulting in approximately 2 million new jobs. This growth is driven by an aging population and increased demand for health care services.  

TIP: The last thing you want to do is arrive at your graduate program and discover that this isn’t your career goal. “During your undergraduate degree, shadow or volunteer at several health facilities,” said Lootz. “Some campuses make this even easier with on-campus clinical sites where health students work or volunteer their time. This will give you real-world experience and expose you to various career options and clinical sites so you can make the best choice for your future career.” 

Master’s degrees in health science

Many students pursue a master’s degree to specialize or meet licensure requirements in their desired field. Popular graduate programs include: 

• Master of Science in Athletic Training 

• Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition 

• Master of Science in Emergency Management  

• Master of Science in Nutrition Science 

• Master of Science in Nursing 

• Master of Physician Assistant Studies 

• Master of Social Work 

• Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology 

Doctoral degrees 

Some health science students pursue doctoral-level training, especially in clinical fields or research-intensive areas: 

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) 

• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) 

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) 

• Doctor of Audiology (AuD) 

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) 

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) 

• Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) 

• Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) 

Why study health science at Pacific? 

At University of the Pacific, students in health science majors benefit from hands-on learning, dedicated pre-health advising, and early exposure to clinical and professional environments. 

Pacific combines small classes, experienced faculty and industry partnerships with extensive hands-on learning. Students in Pacific’s health science programs are guided by faculty who care about their success and connect them with real-world opportunities. 

Students benefit from: 

• Experiential learning in on-campus clinics and research labs 

• Clear pathways from undergraduate to graduate education 

• Specialized scholarships for students who commit to working in the region after graduation (available in fields such as social work and clinical nutrition) 

Pacific’s undergraduate graduates have been admitted to top graduate and professional programs in these fields, including PharmD, DDS and physician assistant studies. 

Learn more about Pacific’s pre-health options. 

If you are an introvert entering a college campus for the first time, you may find it daunting. Often it can seem like a four-year-long social event. In reality, more intimate campuses like Pacific are a haven for you to be the best introvert you can all on your own. It’s important to know when to embrace your introverted tendencies and when to step out of your comfort zone. In this guide we’ll cover all the basics of being an introvert in college based on firsthand experiences from our students.  

Navigating the roommate relationship 

Arriving at a new school can be scary. Moving in with a roommate can be even scarier.  

“I’ve noticed that introverts tend to focus too much on how others will view them and think that everyone else is more comfortable being social. That is not the case,” says Shea Bishop, an applied mathematics major and former resident assistant. “Almost everyone is going to be just as nervous as you are.”  

Introverts are already good listeners. Ask about something in line with your roommate’s experience. Introverts often thrive in conversations by carefully listening and contributing thoughtfully when they feel ready. Following this may help you get to know someone better. 

Scheduling “me time” 

Interacting with your classmates can drain your social battery, but relying on your own introvert tendencies can help you recharge. Schedule some time for yourself when you’re not busy. Exchange class schedules with your roommate and figure out a time when they’re not going to be around. That way you can find some personal time to relax, listen to a podcast, read a book, study or watch your favorite show. You don’t even have to stay in your room. You can also spend that quiet time in the library, at the Lair or in a student lounge. 

Your need to be alone to recharge is completely valid, and it will help you with the challenges you may face while transitioning to college life.  

“I think that leaning into introverted tendencies a couple days before a big event or day where socializing is inevitable is the best time,” Shea said. “It allows you to enjoy that concert, day out with friends or big presentation without having to worry about being tired halfway through.” 

Leaving your comfort zone 

While your time to yourself is still precious, inching out of your comfort zone is equally important. Pacific hosts a wide variety of events you can check out and could lead to new friendships. But if you’re worried about the large crowds at Block Party, don’t worry, there plenty of student organizations and clubs that hold low-key events. 

 “I think a great example is participating in Greek life or social organization events with activities such as speed dating or other fast forms of ice breaking. Those brought me out of my comfort zone socially,” biology major Lana Heartfield said.  

One-off events are often something you may want to save your social battery for but be sure not to stay longer than you want to. Move at your own pace; everyone is on different wavelengths.  

Sometimes leaving your comfort zone can be as simple as answering questions in class! It’s important to leverage your time in class when you need some clarification. It’s likely others may have the same question and are also hesitating to speak up. 

Setting boundaries 

While it’s great to have extroverted friends who help you leave your comfort zone from time to time, it’s important to stay true to what you want for yourself and set some boundaries. Don’t let the FOMO (fear of missing out) be motivation to go out. It’s OK to say no to social events you would rather skip for some personal time. There will be plenty of activities throughout the year to go to.  

Sometimes this may mean saying no to your friends.  

“There are many times when it is not a personal reflection of the friendship,” said Lana. “If the person receiving the boundary is understanding, it should never be an issue or something to feel judged over. Even the most social people can get exhausted.”  

College life at Pacific brings a new sense of independence and uncertainty, so it’s important to remember that the best version of you is the authentic you. Stay introverted! Live college life the way that makes you feel healthy and happy. 

It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year. Just a few more weeks and you can enjoy freedom during winter break without all your responsibilities. But first you must get through finals week. With projects wrapping up and finals quickly approaching, you are likely experiencing some stress. Here are tips from an experienced finals-taker on how to manage your mental health and prevent burnout. 

Try different studying techniques

If you find yourself in a slump with your current studying method or you can’t find the motivation to get started, consider trying one of these new techniques to boost your productivity: 

The Pomodoro technique is an effective way of studying and works by diving your work into regular and short increments with breaks in between them. You study for 25 minutes and take a five-minute break four times, then take a 30-minute break and, finally, repeat the cycle. It is an effective and well-known technique and is especially helpful if you have a short attention span or procrastinate.  

The Animedoro (yes, anime) technique is another studying method that works similarly to Pomodoro. Instead of small five-minute breaks, you work for 40-60 minutes and then reward yourself with a 20-minute break that can be used to watch an episode of your favorite anime or other show. If you choose this method, be sure you have enough self-control to stop after one episode to continue studying! 

Go outside and get some sunlight

We’re lucky to be living in California where the sun is available to us all year round. Take advantage of this luxury and take a break from studying to go for a walk or watch the sunset. According to Stanford Professor of Neurobiology Andrew Huberman, “Exposure to sunlight can have a powerful effect on our health, improve mood and contribute to an overall sense of well-being.” 

If you notice you’re stressing more than usual, get some sunlight. Listen to a podcast or your top artist of the year while you take a stroll around Pacific’s beautiful campus. Just make sure you step outside before 5 p.m. —early sunsets are upon us! 

Spend time with your friends and yourself

As important as your studying seems, your relationships with your friends, family and self are more important. If you feel drained, take a break and recharge with friends or yourself.  

Are you an extrovert or an introvert? If you’re an extrovert, or someone who “recharges” by being around other people, then take study breaks to get coffee or dinner from a restaurant on Miracle Mile with your friends.  

If being around others sounds exhausting, take some time for yourself. Some of my favorite ways to regain energy as an introvert include reading a book, walking around campus with my headphones in or watching a Rom-Com from the comfort of my own bed. Your mental health will thank you for this one, and you’ll have newfound energy to continue being an academic weapon.  

Health is wealth

If your cycle is eat, sleep, study, repeat, make sure that you are prioritizing and doing the first two steps. If you find it difficult to squeeze in full meals between studying, bring a protein bar or nutritional shake to hold you over. While preparing for a long study session, pack a variety of snacks and liquids to keep you properly fueled throughout. 

Determine how many hours of sleep you need to perform and retain information at your best. According to The Sleep Foundation, most college-aged students need seven to nine hours of sleep. If you find yourself feeling sluggish or tired during the day, take a quick 20-minute power nap to reenergize.  

You’re almost at the end. Keep working hard, and good luck studying. You got this! 

Bonus tip: Check out Pacific’s Destress Fest!

Take a break from your studies on Thursday night and check out Pacific’s Destress Fest from 6-9 p.m. at the DeRosa University Center. Play video games, paint mugs, drink hot chocolate and more. Don’t forget to enter the raffle to win prizes like Beats headphones or a new TV! 

Stick around after Destress Fest for Late-Night Breakfast from 10 p.m. to midnight for pancakes, eggs and great company! The event is free to all Pacific students, so fuel up before heading back to your studying  

Megan Nishimura

Megan Nishimura is a fourth-year marketing major from Honolulu, Hawai’i. You can find her in Burns Tower as Enrollment Marketing’s student copywriter, in the stands as an athletics event staff worker or on the court as a member of Pacific’s Division 1 volleyball team.

Starting your university journey is very exciting, but the transition from high school to college can also be intimidating. When you move onto campus in the fall, you might find it difficult to live away from family and friends and manage new relationships. Additionally, you’ll be responsible for making independent decisions about your education, future goals and more.  

This can be a lot to take in, but don’t stress! By starting to prepare for your college transition now, you can build confidence and resilience that will guide you through your first year and beyond.  

Pam Wrona, licensed clinical psychologist and associate director for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at Pacific, recommends familiarizing yourself with resources at Pacific that can help you when you face challenges in college, like CAPS, as well as reaching out to your support system. 

“One of the best things you can do in this transition is reach out for support from friends and family who will be there for you, listen and provide encouragement,” said Wrona.  

Below, Wrona outlines some of the primary emotions you might experience during your transition to college—and how you can ask for support to help you through it.  

Dealing with fear or anxiety 

How it can manifest: You may experience these emotions in physical, mental, and/or behavioral ways. You might feel restless or tense; get an upset stomach; have difficulty sleeping; have trouble concentrating; or have the urge to avoid things that trigger your anxiety. 

“The transition to college is likely the biggest adjustment you will have had to make,” said Wrona. “But it’s normal to experience fear or anxiety whenever change happens, even if it is good change!” 

How to find support: Ask someone close to you, like a parent or guardian, if you can speak to them when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed about starting college. Let them know that you’re not looking for them to solve the problem for you but ask if they can lend an ear and be there for you as you process your emotional experiences.  

How Pacific can help  

Pacific has dedicated student support systems, which include counseling and psychological services. You can learn more about services offered through CAPS on their webpage.  

To contact CAPS, call 209.946.2315 ext. 2, or complete an online appointment request. You can also follow them on Instagram @PacificCAPS to receive daily mental health tips. 

By Devin Thompson ’25  
Psychology major 

I decided to bring goat yoga to campus to help Pacific students relax before finals. As a student myself, I know that the spring semester can be extra stressful because everything is wrapping up at the end of academic year.

I am a sophomore psychology major and a resident assistant for Pacific’s North Quads residential community. One of my responsibilities as an RA is to engage student-residents by hosting socials. After the success of the “Save Your Drama for a Therapy Llama” destress event last fall, I thought about organizing an outdoor yoga, but then I found out about goat yoga, and it all came together.

The event took a lot of research, organizing and collaboration, but we made it happen. We set up on the lawn of the Wendell Phillips Center on April 28. About 50 students from the North Quad community participated during the two-hour event. I also saw a lot of other people stopping by just to take photos.

We offered two one-hour sessions. The first 30 minutes was yoga with an instructor. The goats were simply present and just casually interacted with people during the session. It was meant to be fun and provide a sense of comfort. There were also some yoga poses where the animals were trained to actually get on people’s backs. I think it was a lot of fun and made yoga less intimidating to those who were doing it for the first time.

During the last 30 minutes of the session, students could interact with the goats more casually like taking photos or feeding the animals.

Even though it was a lot of work putting it together, I’m glad I was able to bring goat yoga to our campus. It had never been done at Pacific, and it was fun for me to introduce something new. Overall, it was a fantastic and unique event and I think it helped many students destress before finals.

Updated: 12/09/24

It’s everyone’s favorite time of the year. Finals! What’s not to love about cumulative tests worth 40% of your grade, caffeine jitters from seven cups of coffee before noon or even giant eyebags informing everyone and their mother that you in fact did not get a good night’s rest?

Whether this is your first time or your last time tackling finals week, feeling stressed and overwhelmed is pretty common. That’s why it’s important to make time for ourselves this week. We cannot expect to perform well in the classroom if we are not taking care of our mental and physical health. Here are some tips to help you manage your stress during finals week:

1. Bring your favorite snacks and a water bottle with you to study

Hunger leads to stress and poor cognitive performance. Hunger also leads to hanger, which is a mood we all want to avoid. Take a break from studying and enjoy a boost of energy from a white chocolate macadamia nut Cliff Bar or a banana with peanut butter. These snacks can keep you satisfied while studying and hold you over until your next meal.

Additionally, having a water bottle on hand will keep you hydrated while studying. Dehydration leads to headaches and brain fog, two things we want to avoid when studying for important exams.

2. Indulge in self-care

Embrace your inner Donna and Tom and “Treat Yo Self” to an overpriced latte or a full body massage. Self-care is all about doing what is best for your mental and physical wellbeing. It can be as simple as taking a stroll around campus or listening to your new favorite album on repeat… cough SOS cough.

Finals week is a stressful period, and we can easily lose ourselves in the endless notes. Remember to take time for yourself. This also includes prioritizing sleep. Ensure you get enough sleep every night because it is vital to your overall health.

3. Spend time with friends

Allot some time out of your day to spend time with other human beings. It’s very likely that your friends are also stressing over finals, so destress together. Bake some chocolate chip cookies together or watch a nostalgic movie or both.

Also, call your parents or your siblings. They miss your voice, and I’m sure you miss theirs too. Hearing your loved ones talk about how their day is comforting and a nice mini break from your stressors.

4. Break a sweat

Exercising is a great way to decompress and release muscle tension associated with stress. It can be as easy as taking a 10-minute break to stretch and relax your body.

Personally, I schedule workouts between study sessions to prevent burnout and reset myself before studying again. It also helps me determine what I have retained and what sections I need to focus more on. Lifting followed by long stretching sessions at Baun are my preferred workout.

Here the hours of various workout gyms across campus:

• Baun Fitness Center
  December 9-21 and January 6-12: 6 a.m.-7 p.m.
  December 22 -January 5: CLOSED
• Janssen-Lagorio Gym (JL)
  December 9-21: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 6:30-9:30 p.m.
  December 22 -January 5: Open Rec is CLOSED
  January 6-12: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 6:30-9:30pm
• Main Gym
  December 9-21: Tuesday and Thursday Noon-2 p.m.
  December 22 – January 5: Open Rec is CLOSED
  January 6-12: Tuesday and Thursday Noon-2 p.m.

Just one last week and then you can go home to old friends and family, sleep in without worrying about missing class and forget all academic responsibilities for a month.

Keep grinding it out academic weapon, you got it!

About the author

Megan Nishimura

Megan Nishimura is a fourth-year marketing major from Honolulu, Hawai’i. You can find her in Burns Tower as Enrollment Marketing’s student copywriter, in the stands as an athletics event staff worker or on the court as a member of Pacific’s Division 1 volleyball team.