Elana McEwen is a senior majoring in accounting at Michigan State University. A native of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, she plans to relocate to Atlanta, Georgia, after graduation. This summer, she will complete a tax internship with PwC. In the fall, McEwen will begin pursuing a master’s degree in accounting at Georgia State University while preparing to take the CPA exams.
As I prepare for graduation, I’ve been reflecting on the phrase Spartans Will. For me, it’s more than just a motto — it’s a mindset I’ve had to live every day.
A few months ago, I found out about a clinical trial for a medication that could help reduce the inflammation and long-term lung damage I have from a rare, incurable disease called primary ciliary dyskinesia. The condition has caused me to develop permanent lung damage known as bronchiectasis. This new treatment involves an injectable medication, and while it comes with risks, I knew I had to try because managing my symptoms is a constant part of my life.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia impacts my lungs, ears and sinuses. I’ve had more than 70 surgeries, been hospitalized more times than I can count and even wear hearing aids because of eardrum damage. Since this is an invisible disease — most people can’t see what I’m dealing with — yet I’m still held to the same expectations as everyone else.
During my time here at Michigan State, I’ve had to miss weeks of classes each year for hospital stays or surgeries. Balancing assignments, being involved in student organizations and finding internships while battling a chronic illness isn’t easy. Sometimes people forget that while I may look fine, my body is working overtime just to keep up.
While college has been challenging with a rare disease, the communities I’ve been a part of at MSU have allowed me to succeed to my full potential. Every friend I have made or teacher I have had did their best to understand my situation, and they all provided their full support in whatever I needed to succeed. Through the organizations I have joined, they helped me find the best opportunities to set me up for my career while accommodating any issues that may arise with my disease. I have been able to join the board of an organization — serving as vice president of the Women in Business Students’ Association — complete multiple internships and do fun things like attend football and basketball games. None of this would be possible without the community MSU provided for me. Attending MSU was more than just obtaining a college degree — it gave me friends, support and a foundation that I will base my career on.
This journey hasn’t been easy, but I’ve never let primary ciliary dyskinesia define me or stop me from chasing my goals. I look forward to graduating, and I’m ready for what’s next.
Go Green!