Krista Helsel

Krista Helsel was a member of the first cohort of the VIH program in 2008, which allowed her to travel to Cuenca, Ecuador, to study Spanish as well as conduct anthropological research (not to mention learn how to knit, brush up on some South American soap operas, and go paragliding!). Upon completion of the program, Krista was invited to remain with VIH as an intern from December 2008 until May of 2010 when she received her B.A. in Spanish from the University of Pittsburgh. Delving again into another passion, Krista immediately switched courses to attend Nursing School at a community college which allowed her to pick up one of her past time hobbies, fast pitch softball. Following her graduation in May of 2012, she soon acquired a position as a registered nurse at Allegheny General Hospital. Krista is an avid runner, a loving mother to Peanut Brittle the guinea pig, and is thrilled for what adventures her future holds.