In the heart of the Frederick National Laboratory, where science thrives and innovation flourishes, you'll find Mia Bjelogrlic, Occupational Nurse II. With five years of devoted service, Mia is a steadfast advocate for health and wellness in the Occupational Health Services department.
Delve deeper into her insights and experiences in the full interview below:
Tell us about your work at the Frederick National Laboratory.
At Occupational Health, the work I do includes ensuring that employees have the needed vaccinations, mask fittings, bloodwork monitoring and other health and safety related job requirements for their positions at FNL.
In addition, we see employees who have injuries, illnesses, or are coming in for their physicals. I promote health and wellness by organizing “Take a Hike” events, bringing attention to current health observances, coordinating and promoting virtual wellness classes, and being involved in the Frederick Running Festival.
How did you become interested in your line of work, and what drew you to the Frederick National Laboratory?
I became interested in Occupational Health when I was searching for nursing careers that allowed more time to build rapport with patients. In fast paced hospitals and urgent cares, sometimes it is hard to connect to and properly educate patients due to the hectic and short-lived interactions.
At FNL, I see employees regularly and can more effectively promote health and wellness for each individual I see. I was drawn to FNL due to its world-renowned reputation, prestige, and noble mission.
What do you enjoy about working at the Frederick National Laboratory?
I enjoy getting to know the FNL community. I am grateful to be surrounded by such a diverse and interesting group of individuals that I get to interact with and learn from on a daily basis. My coworkers at OHS are the kindest, most helpful, and fun group of people I have ever worked with.
What accomplishment(s) at the Frederick National Laboratory are you most proud of or how has your work made impact?
I am most proud of heading a “couch to 5k” running program on the Ft. Detrick campus. My colleague Paul Marshall and I volunteered our time to coach individuals who were interested in starting a running program. We ran together twice a week for three months until the group was comfortable enough to run in the Frederick Running Festival. The experience was challenging, fun, and very rewarding.
What piece of advice has helped you in your career?
The best advice I received is to not be afraid of change. The nursing profession offers a lot of opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try new challenges. I would not have made my way to FNL without taking steps that are sometimes a little scary and a little uncomfortable.
What are some of your hobbies or special interests outside of the office? Include any volunteer work.
Most of my favorite activities involve being outdoors. Besides long-distance running, I spend a lot of time gardening in my yard every year. I travel as much as possible. I am an artist with my specialty in oil painting and illustration.
