Ashley Santizo
CHICAGO,IL
Summary
Compassionate and motivated BSN nursing student with clinical experience in cardiac step-down and inpatient psychiatric settings, and a strong interest in pediatric and mental health nursing. Brings hands-on experience supporting children with developmental disabilities, including tutoring youth with Down syndrome and assisting families within the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) system to obtain Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to their learning needs. Demonstrated commitment to trauma-informed, patient- and family-centered care through mentorship, mental health advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Seeking a nursing internship to further develop clinical skills while supporting children, adolescents, and underserved communities through equitable, compassionate care.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
8
8
Certifications
Work History
Clinical Rotations
University of Chicago Medicine
Chicago, Illinois
02.2026 - Current
- Provided compassionate care for patients undergoing treatment for hematologic and solid tumor cancers in an inpatient oncology setting.
- Performed focused patient assessments including vital signs, symptom monitoring, and evaluation for treatment-related complications such as infection, fatigue, and nausea.
- Documented patient assessments, observations, and care activities in the Epic Systems electronic health record in accordance with clinical documentation standards.
- Assisted with activities of daily living, mobility support, and implementation of fall and safety precautions for immunocompromised patients.
- Practiced therapeutic communication to support patients and families coping with serious illness and emotionally challenging diagnoses.
Research Assistant and Patient Navigator
UIC Department of Pediatrics
CHICAGO, United States
09.2024 - 12.2026
- Supported research on improving access to Individualized Education Program (IEP) evaluations for families navigating the CPS system.
- Collected and analyzed data by conducting structured interviews and surveys to evaluate family experiences and understanding of the IEP process.
- Assisted in determining whether families were receiving support from specialized patient navigators by analyzing patterns in their responses to specific questions.
- Contributed to the research team's hypothesis that patient navigators improve outcomes for families seeking school-based therapies by providing critical insights into family experiences.
- Observed notable differences between families with and without navigator support, helping the team better understand the barriers to accessing necessary services.
- Preparing to expand responsibilities by training to become a patient navigator in January 2025 to directly support assigned families in the research process.
Research Fellow for L@s Ganas
UIC
CHICAGO, United States
01.2023 - 09.2026
- Selected as a research fellow in the competitive L@s GANAS program, designed to provide meaningful exposure to research environments in Life Sciences, Chemistry, and related fields.
- Collaborated with experienced researchers while earning academic credit and hands-on experience in scientific research.
- Engaged in a science leadership workshop and cultural dialogues to strengthen leadership skills and cultural awareness in the context of science and research.
- Participated in structured seminars (Bios 294: Special Topics) focusing on discussion-based learning and research methodologies.
- Awarded $2,500 per semester in financial assistance to support research activities and academic growth.
- Connected with national and local research communities, gaining valuable networking opportunities and exposure to potential career paths in science and research.
- Committed to presenting original research findings at national and local conferences, fostering communication skills and contributing to the broader scientific community.
Clinical Rotation
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Chicago, Illinois
01.2026 - 02.2026
- Provided direct patient care to individuals experiencing acute mental health conditions including mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in a structured inpatient setting.
- Utilized therapeutic communication techniques to build rapport, support emotional regulation, and promote a safe and supportive milieu.
- Observed interdisciplinary rounds to deepen understanding of patient diagnoses, treatment planning, and collaborative psychiatric care.
- Monitored patient behavior, mood changes, and safety risks while supporting nursing staff in maintaining a therapeutic unit environment.
- Developed a group therapy activity centered on self-love and positive affirmations to promote self-esteem, emotional reflection, and patient engagement.
Clinical Rotation
UIHealth
Chicago, Illinois
09.2025 - 11.2025
- Provided direct patient care for individuals with cardiac conditions including heart failure, arrhythmias, and post-procedural cardiac monitoring under RN supervision.
- Performed focused cardiovascular assessments including vital signs, telemetry rhythm interpretation, and monitoring for signs of cardiac deterioration.
- Assisted with medication administration, patient hygiene, mobility support, and implementation of fall and safety precautions.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to support patient-centered care and promote recovery.
- Practiced therapeutic communication and patient education to support understanding of cardiac conditions, medications, and lifestyle modifications.
Laboratory Assistant
UIC
CHICAGO, United States
08.2023 - 09.2024
- Prepared and analyzed DNA samples for research aimed at developing a rapid disease detection device.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure accurate and efficient sample processing, contributing to timely data collection.
- Followed strict laboratory protocols and maintained meticulous records to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Assisted in troubleshooting experimental procedures, enhancing the reliability of data for external partners.
Mentor for L@s Ganas
UIC
CHICAGO, United States
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Provided one-on-one mentorship to a fellow Latino college student navigating the pre-health field, drawing on personal experience to support academic and professional development.
- Offered guidance on course selection, effective study strategies, and long-term career planning within the pre-health track.
- Assisted with resume development, application preparation, and building a competitive portfolio for health-related opportunities.
- Served as a consistent source of encouragement and advocacy, helping foster confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging within the university community.Provided one-on-one mentorship to a new college student navigating the pre-health field, fostering academic and professional development.
- Offered guidance on course selection, study strategies, and career planning within the pre-health track.
- Assisted with crafting resumes, preparing applications, and building a competitive portfolio for future opportunities.
- Served as a source of support and encouragement, promoting confidence and a sense of belonging within the university community.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Illinois At Chicago
Chicago, IL05-2027
High School Diploma - Spanish Honors, French Honors
Depaul College Prep
CHICAGO05.2022
Skills
- Fast Learner
- Ability to Work in a Team
- Ability to Work Under Pressure
- Problem Solving
- Compassion
- Empathy
- Public Speaking
- Patience
- Spanish speaker
- Phlebotomy
- Patient advocacy
- Activities of daily living adls
- Flexible schedule
- Physician collaboration
- Vitals documentation
- Grooming support
- Personal care
- Cultural history
- Charting and documentation
- Medication and dosage
- Medication administration
- Patient education
- Vital signs
- HIPAA guidelines
- Patient assessment
- Clinical documentation
- Data analysis
Extracurricular Activities
Volunteer
Purposeful Living Services LLC. — Chicago, IL
January 2022 – Present
- Assisted migrant children by gathering and distributing clothing and essential goods to meet basic needs
- Provided emotional support and mentorship, fostering a safe and nurturing environment
- Engaged children in play and recreational activities to promote social skills and emotional well-being
- Collaborated with team members to organize events and community resources
Mentor
L@s Ganas Program, University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, IL
August 2023 – May 2024
- Provided one-on-one mentorship to a Latino pre-health college student, supporting academic and professional development
- Offered guidance on course selection, study strategies, and long-term career planning
- Assisted with resume development, application preparation, and building a competitive portfolio
- Promoted confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging within the university community
Maestro Cares Scholarship Recipient
Maestro Cares Foundation — Chicago, IL
August 2023 – Present
- Awarded a $3,000 scholarship for academic excellence, resilience, and commitment to community service
- Recognized for leadership, perseverance, and dedication to higher education
- Completed a minimum of 20 hours of community service per semester, contributing to local and global initiatives
Volunteer
UI Health – Outpatient Pediatric Department — Chicago, IL
October 2022 – July 2023
- Supported daily operations at the pediatric outpatient front desk
- Greeted patients and families to ensure a welcoming and supportive environment
- Managed patient check-in, verified information, and directed families appropriately
- Assisted with TB test scheduling, tracking, and documentation
- Collaborated with clinical staff to maintain efficient patient flow
Literacy tutor
Gigi's Playhouse - Chicago, IL
June 2023- present
- Provided one-on-one tutoring for a student with Down syndrome, focusing on literacy development and essential social skills.
- Designed and implemented engaging reading practices, drawing activities, and interactive exercises to enhance learning and comprehension.
- Fostered a supportive and encouraging environment to promote confidence and independence in the student.
- Collaborated with parents and educators to track progress and adapt strategies to meet the student's individual needs.
Languages
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
Certification
Phlebotomy Technician Certificate of Training
Timeline
Clinical Rotations
University of Chicago Medicine
02.2026 - Current
Clinical Rotation
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
01.2026 - 02.2026
Clinical Rotation
UIHealth
09.2025 - 11.2025
Research Assistant and Patient Navigator
UIC Department of Pediatrics
09.2024 - 12.2026
Laboratory Assistant
UIC
08.2023 - 09.2024
Mentor for L@s Ganas
UIC
08.2023 - 05.2024
Research Fellow for L@s Ganas
UIC
01.2023 - 09.2026
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Illinois At Chicago
High School Diploma - Spanish Honors, French Honors
Depaul College Prep