Posted by Francesca Zanti

Most St. Louisans have heard and seen the ads for “Be a Billiken” around town, but I never realized how important that phrase really was until I became one myself. Two and a half years ago, I was employed as a Medical Records Clerk in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Saint Louis University Medical Center. I automatically felt pride in where I worked. After I got established, I decided to apply to the Professional Studies Program. It was in Professional Studies that I felt like a true Billiken.

Currently, I am working towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Information Management. This degree not only ties into my employment responsibilities, but it will help me when medical records transition to electronic record keeping. I will admit, there are times I ask myself if it is worth it, but in the end, I know that all the hard work will pay off. I enjoy meeting all kinds of different people that are enrolled in the Program with me. It is hard sometimes, because just when you get used to seeing the same group of people, the eight weeks is over and it’s time to meet a whole new set of people.

Belonging to Saint Louis University – not only professionally, but academically – has made me proud to call the University “home.” Often, I am stopped by different individuals, who notice that I am wearing a University sweatshirt or t-shirt off campus, and they immediately start to share with me their common liking for the school. It is as if we are all one large community within itself, and that togetherness is a very positive thing. I wish that others could experience my pride in being a Billiken.