KINGSTON, R.I. – May 4, 2026 – It’s good to have options, which is a big reason why Jasmyn Gates decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology in the University of Rhode Island’s College of Health Sciences.

“I chose kinesiology because of the program’s remarkable flexibility,” said Gates, who is from Auburn, Massachusetts. “I knew it would lead to multiple graduate degree options and career pathways in the healthcare field.”

The first-generation college student participated in the URI Honors Program; earned the Vasilios S. & Aphrodite Haseotes Scholarship in her sophomore, junior, and senior years; and will graduate summa cum laude for having a grade point average of 3.70 or higher.

URI Dean of Students Daniel Graney taught two of Gates’ honors courses and supported her Honors Program project, which focused on the opioid epidemic.

“Jasmyn brings heart, purpose, and a deep commitment to helping others,” said Graney. “She represents the very best of the College of Health Sciences. Jasmyn is exactly the kind of graduate we’re proud to celebrate as she begins her next chapter.”

While at URI, Gates completed an internship at Specialized Orthopedic Physical Therapy in North Kingstown.

“The internship granted me hands-on patient care experience,” said Gates. “By observing and working with clinicians, I not only expanded my knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, but I also strengthened my ability to adapt to every patient to meet their health needs.”

Another meaningful experience for Gates was working at the Multiple Sclerosis Specialty Center in Northborough, Massachusetts, in the summer before her senior year at URI. The center offers physical, occupational, and speech language/cognitive therapy exclusively to patients with multiple sclerosis.

“I primarily worked as a fitness specialist alongside the clinicians to guide patients through their exercise prescriptions, cue patients on errors that could pose safety concerns, and prepare treatment routines,” said Gates.

She also gained administrative experience, which was eye-opening.

“I learned about the ongoing complexities of getting prior authorizations from insurance companies and how that can often interfere with delivering patient care,” said Gates.

While insurance and administrative procedures are a necessary part of the healthcare system, assisting patients is what motivates Gates to enter the healthcare field.

“Anyone seeking medical care is undoubtedly experiencing a vulnerable time in their life,” said Gates. “Every person is entitled to adequate care and to be treated with dignity and compassion, regardless of their background or identity. Knowingthat I may be able to treat someone accordingly, on what may be one of their hardest days will always be important to me.”

Following graduation, Gates plans to look for a job related to exercise science. She also plans to attend graduate school to pursue a master’s degree in physician associate studies.

“My ultimate goal is to become a certified physician associate working at a level one trauma center,” stated Gates. “Eventually, I would like to pursue a Ph.D. in public health as well. I am exceedingly grateful for the opportunities my education from URI has afforded me.”