Cecilija Rowane is a sophomore undergraduate nursing student at The Ohio State University. She comes from Cleveland, Ohio, where she grew up in a close-knit Slovenian community that significantly shaped her identity and values.

From an early age, she has been deeply connected to her heritage through the Slovenian school at St. Mary’s Parish, the Kres folklore dance group, and summers spent at the Slovenska Pristava camp, where she later worked as a counselor. She is especially grateful to her maternal family, who taught her the importance of Slovenian culture and preserving her heritage.

Through her research in Slovenia, Cecilija hopes to deepen her understanding of public health in the country while connecting with other fellows who share her cultural background. In addition to her studies, she enjoys running, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.