VCU news

By Joan Tupponce

Maikah and Makailah Flores share more than their DNA – the 22-year-old fraternal twins share a passion for health care, which has shaped their journeys through Virginia Commonwealth University.

Both became interested in the field in their early high school years in Hampton.

“We began taking courses regarding health and health care administration, and because no one in our family is a part of the health care system, I thought it would be amazing to do something different and stand out,” Makailah said. “I enjoyed learning about the aspects of patient care, the health care system and the significance of the people who take care of patients and families.”

They were only 16 when they both began working toward their certifications to become medical assistants. 

“That was a huge accomplishment for both of us. We continued our health care journey by coming to VCU to pursue nursing,” Maikah said. “Although things didn’t go as planned, the experience was humbling and taught me lessons that will be invaluable for the rest of my life.”

Instead of nursing degrees, the twins will graduate in December with degrees in health services from VCU’s College of Health Professions – but they have different interests going forward. Maikah is interested in pediatric and mental health, while Makailah is drawn to neonatal, children’s and women’s health.

“I’ve always had a strong desire to work with younger populations, and mental health has been a passion of mine for a long time,” Maikah said. “After I graduate, I plan to continue working as a patient care technician and a certified nursing assistant at VCU Health and eventually transition to a role that aligns with my health services degree.”

She also hopes to enroll in VCU’s School of Nursing next fall to become a pediatric registered nurse, specializing in mental health services.

“Becoming an RN is a goal I’m deeply passionate about, and I know it will be worth it once I have ‘RN’ behind my name,” Maikah said. “Makailah and I will be among the first nurses in our family, so it’s exciting and motivating to be a part of this journey.”

Makailah is setting her sights on working in women’s and children’s health care.

“This can be either clinical or administrative work; however, my end goal is to become a registered nurse specializing in women, children and infant health,” she said.

The twins chose VCU largely because it was an ideal place for pursuing their passion.

“I’ve always been drawn to the idea of being in a city that’s full of opportunity, and VCU’s strong health sciences programs were a major draw,” Maikah said. “We share a deep commitment to making a difference, and a degree in health services felt like the best way to do just that.”

They both point to Laurie Cathers, Ph.D.,  director of the Bachelor of Science in Health Services, as one of their favorite professors.

“She always took the time to understand her students both personally and as a class,” Makailah said. “Dr. Cathers was never afraid to be transparent, and she uplifted her students to become anything they desired. The way she taught her class was inclusive, and she altered the course based on student comments and concerns.”

The twins enjoyed having classes together, helping each other complete assignments and having a built-in study buddy. But there were challenges as well.

“We didn’t realize how much we shut each other out of exploring other friendships. Because we always chose each other as a partner, we never got the chance to meet other students and develop new relationships,” Makailah said. “As we got closer to graduation, we began to sit apart in classes and meet new friends. Although it was nice to always have my sister, I did appreciate the diversity and new relationships with other classmates.”

As twins, they will always have a special bond, no matter where their careers take them.

“What I find special about being a twin is never having to worry about loneliness or not having a friend,” Makailah said. “Since Maikah and I share the same apartment, classes and more, we have always been each other’s roommate, classmate and lifelong friend.”

Maikah agrees. “It’s pretty special knowing that, no matter what, you have someone who understands you in a way no one else can. The best part is knowing that no matter how different we are, we’ll always have each other’s back, through anything.”

They are grateful for their time at VCU.

“These people, professors and peers will forever live in my heart,” Makailah said.

It hasn’t always been an easy journey, Maikah added, “but every moment, whether overcoming setbacks or celebrating successes, has shaped me into who I am today. I’m excited for what comes next and will always cherish my time at VCU.”