May 12, 2025
Contact: Brian Consiglio, consigliob@missouri.edu
Photo courtesy of Alyson Coles
Alyson Coles knew from a young age she wanted to work in health care. But as a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education seemed a bit overwhelming.
When she visited the University of Missouri, however, she was struck by how welcoming the community was and quickly saw Mizzou — specifically its College of Health Sciences — as the place where she could grow into the person and professional she had always wanted to become.
Read on for a Q&A with Coles about her Mizzou experience.
What was your experience like in the College of Health Sciences, and what made you want to become a student ambassador for the college?
My experience in the College of Health Sciences has been so rewarding and transformative. From day one, I felt like I was part of a community that values service and leadership. I was encouraged to reflect on the kind of health care leader I wanted to become. Being a student ambassador allowed me to connect with prospective students and help them navigate the same questions I once had.
As a first-generation college student, I felt so supported by the people within the College of Health Sciences even though I had so many questions as a freshman. Being a student ambassador was so meaningful to me as a first-generation college student because I know how important it is to have someone in your corner who knows where you are coming from. The College of Health Sciences has reminded me that health care is about people first, and meaningful change starts with empathy, action and advocacy.
How did you take advantage of hands-on learning opportunities on campus?
On campus, I became a medical scribe — documenting physician-patient encounters — in the surgery clinic at University Hospital. This gave me a front row seat to patient care and taught me how physicians communicate effectively. I also volunteered at a local pediatric clinic as a family resource specialist where I connected families to local resources and support systems, which deepened my passion for advocacy. These hands-on experiences were some of the highlights of my time at Mizzou.
How has Mizzou helped you achieve your goals?
Mizzou helped me gain more self-confidence. I completed a research fellowship at Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, where I studied colon cancer and got the chance to present my own findings. This was a big step for me because I gained confidence in my ability to contribute to the community of science. Not only did Mizzou help me become a more competitive medical school applicant, but Mizzou also helped me grow into the person and future doctor I want to be.
What would you tell someone who's interested in coming to Mizzou?
Everyone here is very open to helping you get involved and teaching you new things to develop yourself academically, professionally and personally. For example, the Center for Academic Success & Excellence hosts seminars on financial literacy, which helped me feel so supported as a first-generation student. With how many student organizations are at Mizzou, there is something for everyone, regardless of what you are interested in.
Also, during Homecoming, it is so cool to see all the alumni return to campus and show how dedicated they are to continuing to support the university. It is easy to tell how much people love Mizzou.
What's next for you after graduation?
After graduation, I will continue working as a medical scribe at University Hospital in the surgery department. I am also studying for the MCAT, which is the college admissions test for medical schools. Getting closer to achieving one of my lifelong goals is exciting.
What makes you proud to be a Mizzou Tiger?
This university has helped me become the best version of myself. Mizzou gave me a chance to learn and grow academically, to lead, to serve and to advocate for other people in a way that feels true to who I am. As a first-generation college student, I came to Mizzou with a lot of questions and uncertainty, but I found a community that believed in me, professors who challenged me and experiences that pushed me out of my comfort zone.
I built lifelong friendships at Mizzou, developed a clearer sense of purpose and laid down my foundation in medicine that I am excited about. Being a Tiger showed me what resilience means and helped me have the drive to keep showing up for myself and the people around me. That is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
