2025 Graduate Spotlight | Mikelyn Leigh Johnson
College of Health Sciences
With my newborn son currently by my side, I’m reminded that even when life challenges you, it’s still possible to accomplish incredible things.
Balancing diapers and studying for finals wasn’t the easiest, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
I’m proud to be finishing my degree in Health Studies with a concentration in Healthcare Leadership from the University of Memphis.
And I did it while maintaining nearly a 4.0 GPA, working full-time and giving birth to a healthy 8-pound boy just weeks before graduation.
A Lifelong Passion
I was about ten years old when I took a CPR class for the first time. I found it to be so fascinating and the idea that you could help someone in an emergency really spoke to me.
That interest never went away.
Over the years, I worked in different medical offices and saw firsthand how even small contributions could make a big difference in someone’s life.
That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medical administration.
When it came time to choose a university, convenience and flexibility were non-negotiable. I had already started working at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and didn’t want to pause my career.
The University of Memphis’ online Global program was the perfect fit. It let me keep building my skills while applying what I was learning in real-time.
Finding My Fit
My academic journey wasn’t linear.
I started out pursuing two different degrees, but as I learned more about myself — and what I was actually passionate about — I gravitated toward healthcare leadership.
What clicked for me was realizing that you don’t need to be on the front lines with patients to make a difference.
Behind-the-scenes roles like scheduling, grant management and operations are just as critical to ensuring patients, especially kids, get the care they need.
That’s where I thrive.
A Balancing Act
There were definitely moments when I wasn’t sure how I’d get through everything. Between a new job, school, getting married and pregnancy, I had a lot on my plate.
My best study sessions happened on lunch breaks. I’d skip the cafeteria and dive into assignments — reading chapters, taking quizzes even drafting papers. It wasn’t always glamorous, but it worked. I remember listening to audiobooks while learning to change diapers.
And then, I gave birth to my son.
Three days after giving birth, I took a final — and scored a 100. That moment really summed up the determination it took to get here.
Two professors stand out during this journey. Professor Jerome Cusson, who taught writing and literature, went above and beyond to help me build confidence in my writing. I sent him draft after draft, and he always responded with patience and guidance.
Without that foundation, I don’t think I’d be where I am today.
Dr. William Travis, who taught in my healthcare studies program, also made a huge impact.
Through pregnancy, a new job and major life transitions, his flexibility and understanding helped me stay on track and keep showing up.
Looking Ahead
Graduation may look different for me — I won’t be walking the stage this year because I’ll be home with my newborn.
But that doesn’t make it any less meaningful.
I plan to start my MBA this summer while on maternity leave.
My goal is to move into project management and hopefully continue to grow my career at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
I’m excited about what’s next and even more excited to tell my son, one day, what it took to get here.
For Anyone Juggling It All
If you’re working full-time, raising a family, or just trying to manage all of life’s responsibilities, my advice is simple: prioritize what matters, don’t procrastinate and get organized.
I lived by my calendar, setting reminders for every deadline, study session and paper due. I also gave myself grace and found small moments to recharge.
It wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it.
And now, with my degree in hand, I get to be that example for my son — proof that with enough determination, anything is possible.
