Petra Whittle is set to graduate in Winter 2024 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) through the College of Education & Human Development.
Whittle began her educational journey at Sierra College, working toward an Associate of Science in Public Health. From there, she transferred to the ΒιΆΉΣ³», to continue her studies. Whittle discovered the HDFS program after being intrigued by the developmental process and working with young children. Whittle explained, "Coming into HDFS, I was fascinated by the stages of human development and working within my practicum site provided an incredible opportunity to work hands-on with children for the first time in a classroom setting. I love working with children, and I love the way that their minds work and how they grow… children just amaze me in so many ways."
When asked about her experiences with the HDFS program, Whittle discussed the professors' impact on mental health. "It was so refreshing to have professors and TAs that understand the importance of mental health and self-care, pushing students to put their needs first in order to be successful within their work."
One of these instructors, Jenna Dewar, is a senior lecturer who works to facilitate student's internship experiences.
Dewar highlights, "Petra has been her own best academic advocate since the day I met her. She is the type of student who balances seeking mentorship with proactive follow through in a way that opens doors for creative and effective collaborations. She has carved out this path for herself, and it was a joy to help encourage her to this end goal."
Reflecting on her journey in the HDFS program, Whittle explained that her transition to the ΒιΆΉΣ³» from Sierra College was quite impactful to her, "Becoming a student at the University already felt like such a huge accomplishment… coming to the ΒιΆΉΣ³», taking classes, and being a Wolf Pack member was an incredibly proud moment for me." She also highlighted the impact of her parents, brother and loving partner on her growth and success as she nears graduation.
While Whittle had switched her major from Public Health to HDFS, her calling to work within healthcare never wavered. For her senior internship, Whittle took on a role as an intern within The Smile Shop, a locally owned pediatric dentistry practice serving the Reno-Sparks community. At the Smile Shop, Whittle found a significant amount of support and encouragement from her fellow coworkers. As Whittle described, "Starting with the Smile Shop, I initially thought I was going to be falling behind or that I wouldn't be able to keep up with the fast-paced work environment, but I have managed to find my rhythm thanks to my coworkers who have been nothing but positive, encouraging and so helpful … I am very fortunate to have found such an amazing place."
With her work at the Smile Shop, Whittle continues to work with children and adolescents in the chair within the dental practice, combining her love and excitement for working with children and her passion for healthcare. After graduation, Whittle will continue to work at the Smile Shop as a dental assistant and a dental hygienist in training, working with fellow doctors and coworkers to provide incredible care to all patients. She then plans to apply for a dental hygiene program with the aim of cultivating a safe space for all children and adolescents who enter the dental practice.
To any future students entering the University, Whittle explains that her advice would be to utilize your resources, "Everybody is there to help you; they want you to succeed and recognize that you're not alone." Throughout her educational journey, Whittle has performed with outstanding determination and perseverance and truly embodies the Wolf Pack Way.
