The Rivkin Center’s Rivkin Education Program
The Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer’s Education program provides free health education workshops. Rivkin Edu instructors educate women about their breast and ovarian health and cancer risks.
Say hello to Lauren Grabowski, Rivkin Edu instructor.
About Lauren
Where are you from? Vacaville, California (Cowtown!)
Where do you live now and what does a typical day look like for you? I live in sunny Los Angeles! A typical day for me is jumping between my Rivkin Edu workshop, internship, and UCLA public health and social work classes.
What do you do for fun? I love to scream like a 5-year-old while boogie boarding in the Pacific Ocean.
What is your favorite mantra? Move on, Lean in, Invest more
What is your favorite drink? Milkshakes
What advice would you give to your younger self? Quality over quantity…
What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my little brothers, who are passionate, humble, and make me laugh till I pee.
Where has been your favorite place to travel? Munich, Germany
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? I helped start Still Waters Cancer Retreat, a nonprofit focused on serving the spiritual needs of cancer patients.
Where do you go to find inspiration? Anywhere! Traveling inspires me.
Where’s your happy place? Outside in the sunshine surrounded by good friends.
Who is your role model or mentor? My parents who have always encouraged me to be kind and stand tall.
How Lauren got involved
What inspired you to get involved with Rivkin Edu? I started with Rivkin Edu as a student ambassador at UCLA because I was passionate about health education and public health. During my time as an ambassador, I was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma at the age of 21. After my own treatment, I became more passionate about educating young adults about the importance of knowing their bodies and prioritizing their health.
What is your favorite memory from a Rivkin Edu party? I *LOVE* working with Gail (the UCLA facilitator) and always introduce her as my best friend in the workshops. Every memory with her is my favorite! I am only a little obsessed with her 😉
How can people help to support someone going through cancer? Act normal, listen closely, and send them funny youtube videos on treatment days.
What is the most important thing you want to learn at a Rivkin Edu party? I want UCLA and USC students to prioritize their health. With classes, extracurricular activity, and social outings, undergraduate students tend to place their health as last on the priority list. HEALTH IS #1!
Do you have any events coming up? I am excited to start workshops in the fall at UCLA and USC. As a Triple Bruin, I am still getting used to the idea of teaching on Trojan soil… but my passion for health thankfully is more important than the rivalry!
Learn more about the Rivkin Edu program
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