Alumni

Shalay Foster

Major and degree: Biology, bachelor of science

Graduation year: 2013

Current position: pelvic rehabilitation physical therapist, Center for Pelvic Wellness, Penn Medicine Princeton Health

What motivates you to do science?

I am motivated to treat patients with pelvic floor dysfunction because they’re an underserved population. Often times, individuals are too uncomfortable to discuss areas of taboo that include bladder, bowel, or sexual dysfunction. I’m happy that I can provide a safe space and a solution to many issues in this realm that other health-care providers may not be able to solve. Helping to return these patients to their prior level of function makes it all worth it.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is a time to highlight individuals of the African diaspora in the past that have paved the way for current and future greatness in all realms of reality. In reality, I cannot say I’m always appreciated as a Black woman in health care, but there’s a higher likelihood that myself and others may get their flowers this month.