Each Tuesday, The Citizen features a health professional from the

Finger Lakes community in The Banks: This week, we spotlight Heather Indelicato.

Heather Indelicato

Age: 25

Hometown: Auburn, currently lives in Buffalo

Family: Parents, Lee and Cindy; brother, Bryan and

sister-in-law, Jenny; dog, Dana

Education: Bachelor's of Science in Nutrition from Syracuse University; Bachelors of Science in Nursing from SU; completing Masters of Science (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program) at the University at Buffalo Occupation: Registered Nurse at Strong Memorial Hospital and teaching assistant at UBHobbies: Watching sports, going to the gym, reading and spending time with friends

Q. What is most rewarding part of being a student?

A. I most enjoy learning new things that I can apply to my job as a nurse and future nurse practitioner. I have finally found a field that I truly enjoy, and I find learning about it fascinating.

Q. What is your goal after graduation?

A. I would most like to work in an outpatient psychiatric setting. I enjoy community mental health, and would enjoy working with clients in a day treatment setting. I am most interested in working with clients with chronic mental illnesses.

Q. If you had to grade your own performance as a student, what letter grade would you give yourself?

A. I hate to sound arrogant, but I would give myself an A! My performance in school is extremely important to me, and I work very hard to succeed.

Q. For someone considering a career in the health industry, what advice would you give them?

A. Keep an open mind and do not be judgmental. Always keep in mind that the person you are treating is not a particular illness, but is a human being with thoughts and feelings. Be respectful of everyone.

Q. When you're sick, describe yourself as a patient.

A. I have to admit that I am a terrible patient. I am stubborn, and I don't like to slow down.

Q. What is the most common misconception you hear about nurses?

A. People need to realize that nurses do so much more than pass medications and assist patients with bedpans.

Q. What's the favorite thing you have in your medicine cabinet? Why?

A. I don't have much in my medicine cabinet. I guess I would have to say my toothpaste. I have good, strong teeth, and I intend to keep them that way!