One of the people graduate students interact with when applying to the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing is Yakelin "Jackie" Tepale, admissions coordinator for the graduate programs.
Originally from Paterson, New Jersey, Tepale started at the school of nursing in 2007, a month after moving to Ohio. As the admissions coordinator, she works closely with students to iron out all the details and necessary documentation during the application process.
Her hometown, Paterson (also known as Silk City), is located in northeastern New Jersey on the Passaic River.
“It is a major destination for Hispanic immigrants as well as for immigrants from Bangladesh, India, Southeast Asia and the Arab and Muslim world,” she said. “Paterson is rich in a variety of cultures and diversity.”
Tepale’s grandparents and parents immigrated to the United States from Mexico. In Cleveland, she connects to her cultural roots through the La Sagrada Familia Catholic Church.
“I enjoy attending their events as they bring the Hispanic community together, and I enjoy the variety of foods,” she said.
Outside of work, Tepale enjoys spending time with her family, walking and playing volleyball. Her favorite music performer is Selena, and her favorite book is Heaven is for Real. She also likes creating masterpieces in the kitchen.
“I love to cook a little of everything, but mostly Mexican food,” she added.