Name: Kaylee
Hometown: Lakewood
Current Home: Orange
Languages: English & Spanish
Tenure: Rookie
College: California State University, Long Beach
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Nursing
Occupation: Registered Nurse, Operating Room

What is your favorite thing about your job?
My favorite thing about being a pediatric nurse in the operating room is making a difference in the lives of children and their families. Every shift brings new opportunities to grow and help others through some of their most vulnerable moments. Being part of a surgical team that changes lives for the better is incredibly meaningful to me.

What was your first job?
My first job was coaching gymnastics and tumbling at the gym where I grew up training. I taught young athletes new skills, built their confidence, and helped them reach their goals individually and as a team. It was a full-circle experience that sparked my passion for mentoring and helping others grow.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a veterinarian when I was younger because I've always loved animals. Although I became a nurse instead, both careers share a commitment to caring for others when they need it most. In many ways, I still ended up doing exactly what I dreamed of, which is advocating for those who can't always speak for themselves.

What activities bring you the most joy? 
The activities that bring me the most joy are the ones I get to do with my loved ones. Specifically, I love to dance and travel both locally and internationally. Dancing has always been a way for me to express myself, while experiencing new places deepens my appreciation for different cultures and go on new adventures.

What is your personal motto?
My personal motto is, "Remember when you wanted what you currently have." It's a constant reminder to stay grateful and grounded, even during busy or challenging seasons. This motto helps me appreciate the present moment and not lose sight of how far I've come.

What causes are you passionate about?
I'm passionate about healthcare advocacy, with a special focus on pancreatic cancer awareness. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is especially meaningful to me, as my family participates in this organization in honor of my uncle Jack. Being part of efforts that advance research and support families affected by the disease is something I deeply care about.

Do you volunteer? If so, where?
I volunteer through donating plasma, participating in blood drives, and taking part in holiday drives for underprivileged families. These experiences allow me to give back in ways that directly support others in the community. I value any opportunity to contribute to the community and help wherever I can!

What is an interesting fact about you?
An interesting fact about me is that I had the honor of being valedictorian of both my high school graduating class and my nursing program in college. It taught me the value of consistency, discipline, and perseverance. Those experiences shaped my work ethic and drive in everything I do.

If you could make up a cheerleading superpower, what would it be?
My cheerleading superpower would be instant recovery. No matter how many rehearsals, performances, or workouts I completed, I'd wake up feeling completely refreshed and ready to go. It would let me spend more time doing what I love at my full capacity, which is cheering on the Faithful!

Do you have any skills or talents that most people don't know about?
Most people don't know that I have a photographic memory. Whether it's my school lecture notes or my old cheer routines, I tend to remember things long after I've seen them. It definitely comes in handy for my nursing career and in everyday life!

How do you want people to remember you?
I hope people remember me the way they remember sunlight: warm, uplifting, and full of positive energy. I strive to be someone who brings light to those around me and makes others feel supported. Leaving a lasting impact through kindness and encouragement would mean the world to me.

What is a personal goal you are working towards this year?
One of my personal goals this year is to step outside of my comfort zone and embrace new opportunities. Joining Gold Rush is already a big part of that journey, and I hope to continue growing in confidence both as a performer and as a person. I want to reflect on this year knowing I gave my best effort in everything I pursued.

Who is your biggest role model and why?
Aside from my parents, my biggest role model is the Bay Area native Olympic gold medalist Alyssa Liu. Her return to figure skating for the love of it showed me that passion is what truly drives performance and success. I connect deeply to that, as I pursue dance with the same mindset of doing it for the love of the game.

What is your favorite thing about Gold Rush?
My absolute favorite part of Gold Rush is the people within the organization. From my teammates to our leaders, it always feels like a family every time we are together. The connection and support we share make the entire experience so endearing and meaningful.

What song gets you pumped up on game day?
Lose Yourself – Eminem

If you were a football player, what position would you play?
Wide receiver (Ricky Pearsall is my favorite player!)

What are you most looking forward to this season?
I am most looking forward to experiencing all the firsts this season with my teammates, especially performing on game days and interacting with the Faithful. Representing the 49ers with energy and pride is such an honor. I'm also looking forward to getting involved in the Bay Area community and finding meaningful ways to give back.