“Diagnostic ultrasound not only gives me a continuous and challenging learning experience but also the opportunity to help people in my own community.” -Erin Camemo

Erin Camemo is a senior in the Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Ultrasound program at Seattle University. An active member of the SU community, she participates in many student clubs, leads student retreats for Campus Ministry and volunteers as a Catholic Relief Services Ambassador. She was inspired to pursue a career in health care by several family members who are as passionate about their work in that field as they are about caring for others. She took some time recently to share with us a little about herself, her passions and future goals.

Q. Tell us a little about yourself, hobbies, passions or other details you’d like to share.

I was born and raised on the island of Guam and moved to Seattle for college. Fun-fact is that I’ve been going to Catholic school ever since kindergarten! One of the reasons I chose Seattle University was because of its location and I can say that I really love the city life. I enjoy how there are a variety of things, such as shops and restaurants, close-by to campus and I also like how easy it is to walk around, or commute to places. I lived on-campus at SU my first two years, and since then I have lived off-campus, but only a few blocks away.

Over the years, I have been involved with several campus clubs, such as the Marianas TaoTaoTano Cultural Club, Ultimate frisbee, and the Catholic student club, KIN. On campus, you can usually find me chilling on the couches or having lunch in Campus Ministry with my friends. I love exploring Washington by going on hikes or eating out with friends. Some of my other interests include bullet journaling, reading, and recently, I just got into bouldering, so I’ve been going to Seattle Bouldering Project at least once a week and I’ve even got some of my friends into climbing as well!

Q. What drew you to pursue your Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Ultrasound degree at SU?

Initially I planned to do pre-med, but realized I wanted a different career path after my freshman year. I knew I wanted to work in health care but was unsure what route to take. I wanted to help others and contribute in my own way to the community... Several family members also work in health care. I wanted to follow the same path, because they are so passionate about their jobs and enjoy it because they are helping others. A friend who was already in the program told me about it. Diagnostic ultrasound not only gives me a continuous and challenging learning experience but also the opportunity to help people in my own community.

Q. Would tell us about a little about your work as a Catholic Relief Services Ambassador?

I am a Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Ambassador in the SU chapter. CRS is an international humanitarian organization that provides assistance to those in need around the world. They are rooted in the Catholic faith but work on the basis of need and not creed. Their services range from helping people dealing with food insecurity, natural disasters, accessing and inequities to health services, and so much more. Last school year, we fundraised during the Lenten season by collaborating with on campus dining services, Chartwell’s, to have featured CRS rice bowl meals on fridays to raise awareness about poverty and hunger around the world.

Q. Do you have a favorite moment you’d like to share about your time at SU?

One of my favorite moments at SU was going on the New Student Retreat my first year. This is an annual retreat hosted by Campus Ministry for freshmen held each fall at Camp Indianola. I had such an amazing time. I was able to make such great friends and have a fun, memorable time meeting and talking to people…I met my current roommate there. They had activities where we listened to talks, had group discussions, put up a skit, and there was even a talent show! It was such a great experience that I became a leader for the retreat… The connections I made on retreat, both as a participant and leader, have allowed me to form some great friendships and create meaningful memories.

Q. What are your plans after graduation?

I’ll walk for spring graduation in June 2022 then will finish up my ultrasound internship during the summer. After graduation, I hope to find a job in a Seattle area hospital or clinic. I plan to continue my work as a CRS ambassador as well, and next year, move into a new place with close friends of mine from Guam. I am excited for what the future holds and cannot wait to experience more in life and make more memories with those around me.