Picture of Cole Justus with text Health Sciences Featured Student

The Department of Health Sciences is honored to showcase Cole Justus as a featured student this fall semester!

Justus grew up in the Clarendon Hills-Hinsdale area but later moved to Downers Grove. He chose to attend Illinois State University because he was trying to find a program that replicated the health information management (HIM) program that is offered by Loyola University Chicago. Although his initial motive for choosing the University was finances, he stated his first meeting and experience with student advisor Anjie Almeda solidified his overall decision.

It is no question that Justus practices an outstanding work ethic with commendable integrity. He possesses a passion for helping others better themselves—both physically and emotionally. Additionally, he relentlessly perseveres in bettering himself, for he is one who prioritizes health and wellness and spends much of his free time at the gym.

In the future, Justus sees himself attaining a job within the HIM field after passing the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) exam. After gaining a few years of work experience, he anticipates attending graduate school to obtain a master’s degree in health systems management. Afterward, he plans on applying to a fellowship program at a hospital in either Bloomington-Normal or downtown Chicago with hopes of landing an administrative position.

Justus looks up to his role model, his father, who inspires him to work hard but also take the time to sit back and enjoy himself.

Thank you, Cole, for being a part of the health information management family at Illinois State University!

Justus was nominated by Illinois State University Department of Health Sciences faculty member Jennifer Peterson because of his outstanding leadership qualities as well as his exposure to individuals with health care backgrounds and knowledge.