Not everyone starts college right out of high school. That was true for James “Colt” Crossley. Now a senior in the Health Sciences Pre-Clinical track, Colt spent his initial post-high school years doing mission work in Santiago Chile, Mexico, Florida, and Utah. Spending over a year in Santiago, Colt learned Spanish and embraced Hispanic culture with a passion.
He’s continued to nourish his respect and appreciation for Hispanic culture through his participation in UCF’s Latin Rhythms, a South American dance club where he and others perform dances like the salsa. He also shadowed a bilingual physician that really opened his eyes to the importance of cultural competence. “Speaking in patients’ native language and connecting with their culture makes a big difference. It builds trust and rapport.”
Colt’s education has not been limited to the classroom. As an Eagle Scout, he took an interest in environmental conservation. This led to other conservation endeavors including his current work with a state agency. He’s shadowed neurosurgeons and radiologists, and he is a volunteer at Advent Health. Working in door-to-door sales during summers, Colt says he learned a lot about himself and the importance of a positive mindset. “It helps you get through a lot of stressful times.”
