About Me
I am a third-year undergraduate student at the University of Georgia, pursuing a B.S. in Health Promotion through the College of Public Health. I will be graduating with my bachelor’s degree in August 2026. After graduation, I am pursuing a Master of Public Health at the University of Georgia through the Double Dawgs program, which allows me to earn my graduate degree in one year. I anticipate graduating with my MPH in August 2027.
Professional Experience
I currently work for the Department of Recreational Sports at the University of Georgia as the Group Fitness Program Assistant. I started this position in August 2025. I assist in the hiring, onboarding, training, and development of all group fitness instructor staff members at the Ramsey Student Center. I assist in coordinating scheduling for a team of 60 part-time employees, ensuring optimal coverage and efficient resource utilization. I draft and distribute departmental communications, such as schedules, policy updates, and reminders to staff members, as well as facilitate monthly meetings with all staff members.
I also work as a Group Fitness instructor at the Department of Recreational Sports. I started this position in August 2024. I instruct CardioBox, a Group Fitness Class, and Boxing 101, a Small Group Class, offered by the Department of Recreational Sports at the University of Georgia, dedicated to teaching people how to box and work out, promoting health and empowerment. I am responsible for coaching patrons on boxing techniques, encouraging fitness, and creating a positive environment centered around well-being and self-positivity.
I was a shift lead at The Sweet Read in Woodstock, GA, from January 2022 to August 2024. I regularly operated/managed the bookstore and coffee shop by interacting with customers, stocking shelves, baking pastries and desserts, and maintaining a professional and efficient work environment. I was responsible for training new employees, managing day-to-day company-wide communication, preparing made-to-order beverages, and overseeing store-wide inventory.
Certificates
I am certified in Basic Life Support (CPR & AED) from the American Heart Association. This certification was obtained in February 2026 and is valid through February 2028.
I am certified in Standard & Pediatric First Aid from the CRSA Trauma Society. This certification was obtained in February 2026 and is valid through February 2028.
Career Aspirations
I hope to pursue a career in health policy after I graduate. While finishing my undergraduate degree at the University of Georgia, I had the opportunity to write a white paper detailing the importance of a cohesive community health fair in Athens, GA. I was given the chance to present my findings to a group of community stakeholders, local non-profit leaders, and healthcare executives. When I discovered the possible real-world impact of the program I had created, it changed my academic and professional trajectory towards health policy. I am excited to discover the number of potential careers that are available in this sector.
Carlee Nichols | Student at UGA 