Mentor, Kate, hopes to make an impact on community health

Kate Sabling (she/her) is a youth program mentor from the University of Minnesota, where she is studying Health and Wellbeing Sciences with a focus on Pre-Physician Associates Studies. She has a big passion for community health and has been mentoring with the Girls Getting Ahead in Leadership and Healthy Relationships programs since February 2025. Read more about Kate, her motivations, and her experience as mentor!

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Why did you choose your major?

The major I chose is Health and Wellbeing Sciences. I chose Health and Wellbeing Sciences because it gives me a strong foundation in science and healthcare, which are both important for getting into PA (Physician Assistant) school. This major includes the classes I need for PA school, while also teaching me about health from different angles like public health, and how healthcare systems work. I’m set on becoming a PA, and this major is the perfect stepping stone to help me get there. It’s helping me build the wisdom and skills I’ll need to care for patients in the near future.

My dream is to become a Physician Assistant because I want to make a real difference in people’s lives by providing care, comfort, and support when they need it most, especially in underserved communities.

What are your plans for after college or what is your dream career?

My dream is to become a Physician Assistant because I want to make a real difference in people’s lives by providing care, comfort, and support when they need it most, especially in underserved communities. I’ve seen through my mom how powerful compassion can be in healing, and that made me realize that I want a career where I can truly be there for others. I chose the PA path because it combines everything I’m looking for: meaningful patient care, strong medical training, and the flexibility to explore different specialties as I grow. I’ve always enjoyed working with others, and I believe good teamwork leads to better care which is a big part of the PA role. To me, being a PA isn’t just a job, it’s a way to give back and stand by people in their hardest moments.

How were you introduced to WISE?

I found WISE through my own research while looking for ways to support immigrant and underserved communities, especially girls and women. I’m really glad I did because it's giving me a chance to connect, mentor, and make a real impact which is something that means a lot to me.

What did you learn or take away from your experience with WISE?

WISE taught me how powerful mentorship can be. I realized that just being there, listening, and showing up for someone can really make a difference. It made me think about the people who guided me and how much that meant. Now I’m like a big sister to the girls I mentor, someone they can count on.

WISE taught me how powerful mentorship can be. I realized that just being there, listening, and showing up for someone can really make a difference.

Did you experience any challenges during your mentorship or internship? What were they and how did you overcome the situation?

It wasn’t really a challenge, but more of a personal worry. I was nervous at first because I had never worked with a younger age group before, and I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to connect with them or fit into the environment. But, as soon as I arrived, I began feeling more comfortable.

Please share a memory or experience that was significant to you during your mentorship/internship.

Two memories really stand out to me during my time as a mentor. One was when I was helping a GGAL student with her math homework. I hadn’t done that kind of math in years, and at first, I was just as confused as she was. But as we worked through it together, it started to come back, and we figured it out as a team. That moment made me realize that mentorship is also a two way learning experience, we grow alongside the girls we’re guiding. Another memory I loved was when we were all playing games and just having fun. We were laughing and being silly, and in that moment, it didn’t feel like a structured program, it felt like real connection. Like I was a big sister, not just a mentor, which I think makes the experience more meaningful.