Spotlight on Success: Meet This Week’s Inspiring Ego – Gloria Cheng

Gloria Cheng is a vibrant student balancing her family traditions with her passions. Hailing from Jericho, N.Y., she is currently pursuing degrees in Nursing and Healthcare Management at Penn, with a minor in Nutrition. Gloria’s unique childhood experiences shape her drive to explore maternal health and innovative practices within her community.

She finds joy in diverse activities, from beekeeping to advocating for healthier nutrition. Her involvement with beekeeping began unexpectedly, inspired by family traditions and her love for honey. After joining Penn Beekeeping, she learned about hive maintenance and the fascinating social structure of bees, highlighting their matriarchal society.

Gloria’s culinary interests stem from her immigrant roots. Her grandparents, who came from China in the ‘70s and ‘80s, introduced her to delicious homemade food. She cherishes recipes passed down through her family, drawing on those experiences in her food-related pursuits. Joining Penn Appétit allowed her to blend her love for food with her commitment to community, organizing events and exploring different cuisines.

As a dual degree student, Gloria’s experiences have expanded her horizons. She has participated in three study abroad programs, including classes on health care systems in Thailand and a research stint on breastfeeding in Australia. These experiences widened her perspective on global health while deepening her commitment to nursing, especially in women’s health.

Her interest in breastfeeding research, sparked by a lecture from Dr. Diane Spatz, has shaped her academic journey. Gloria’s work at Australia’s Premier Lactation Group has allowed her to understand breastfeeding’s benefits, not only for the child’s health but also for families and economies. Recently, she presented her findings at an international conference, further solidifying her path in nursing.

Gloria shared a memorable moment from her clinical experience when she unexpectedly helped deliver a baby. That moment reminded her of the beauty of childbirth and confirmed her desire to work in women’s health. She is keen to support new mothers and incorporates her cultural practices into her care approach.

As she looks to the future, Gloria draws strength from her family’s history and her personal journey. She is excited to continue her studies and contribute to maternal care. Her motto, “Try everything,” reflects her adventurous spirit and dedication to making a positive impact.

This interview has been edited for clarity.