Fit to Care

Ivanellis Blanco, a nursing major at Northampton Community College (NCC), embarked on her college journey in fall 2023. In Blanco’s eyes, health is more than a goal—it’s a way of life. The balance she cultivates between fitness, family and her career path exemplifies her commitment to a life dedicated to caring for others. 

Growing up as the oldest sibling in a large, blended family, Blanco has always felt a responsibility to care for others. The oldest of seven, with one brother and five half siblings, she often took on a caregiver role. From getting her siblings fed and ready to go to school in the morning, to making sure they were safe while their single mother worked, Blanco developed a sense of compassion and selflessness early on.  

Her mother, a nurse, was a constant source of inspiration for Blanco. Watching her mom thrive in a fulfilling career in home health, Blanco saw the meaningful impact a healthcare provider could make, especially for those who need an advocate.  

“I’m bilingual and fluent in Spanish, and I want to be there for Spanish-speaking patients who may struggle to find a voice in healthcare,” says Blanco. 

She grew up in Whitehall and now lives on NCC's Bethlehem campus, appreciating the community’s diversity and the opportunities it gives her to connect with people from various backgrounds. Living in the residence halls, she found it easier to balance her studies, gym time and social life.

Blanco’s mother had pointed her toward NCC for its affordable, reputable nursing program. She's grateful for the support she’s recieved while at NCC. Blanco earned the Dr. and Mrs. David Feinberg Memorial Nursing Scholarship to help with her college expenses, so, she could concentrate on learning, and she's found that the learning center at the college has tutors who are ready to help her succeed.

With an interest in all aspects of well-being, Blanco is especially passionate about fitness. The Bethlehem campus fitness center became her second home. Blanco gets the chance to work out while helping others stay healthy and active. As a front desk assistant, she checks students in, guides them on gym equipment, and answers fitness questions.  

“I’m really into fitness. I take care of myself and teach others to care for themselves. I’ve been going to the gym consistently for two years, and working at the gym makes me feel like I’m around discipline-minded people,” Blanco says. She has a strict workout regimen—four days a week, mostly weight training with cardio mixed into her routine. Eating well is non-negotiable. She eats balanced meals, with plenty of protein options that keep her fueled. 

As Blanco progresses through her nursing education, she’s discovering a newfound excitement for different specialties. Clinical rotations keep her engaged, allowing her to explore various fields within nursing. 

Her part-time job at Country Meadows, where she serves as a personal care aide, gives her a glimpse of what it would be like to work with geriatric patients, something she can see herself pursuing. There, she assists residents with daily living activities—helping them get dressed, managing hygiene and providing companionship. In this role, Blanco sees firsthand the importance of patient communication and compassion.  

“Both my fitness center job and my aide job prepare me for my future. Learning how to socialize and serve others, stressing the importance of health and wellness, giving advice along the way -- those are all things that will help me in my career.” 

Blanco’s journey reflects her drive to make a difference, one step, one rep and one compassionate interaction at a time.