Launch the media gallery 1 playerIf You Can Dream It, You Can Do It Alumni Spotlight-Heather Ballagh Ratliff
September 15, 2020
Burwell High School is excited to continue to feature alumni and their accomplishments. We hope this will inspire and encourage current BHS students! This month we feature 2005 grad, Heather Ballagh Ratliff, who lives in Eldridge, Iowa. Check out her questionnaire and pictures! If you have a suggestion for an alumni member to feature, please contact Ronda Weber at Burwell High School.
Name: Heather Ratliff
Graduation Year: 2005
Where do you reside (City, State): Eldridge, IA
Education, Schools Attended, Degrees Attained: University of Nebraska at Kearney, Creighton University- Doctorate of Occupational Therapy
What is your current job and how did you get started there? What kinds of things do you do in your job? Freelance makeup artist. I practiced occupational therapy
for 3 years before having my first child. At that point, my husband and I decided it was in our family’s best interest for me to temporarily leave the work force to raise our children. I picked up makeup artistry on the side as a hobby which has
developed into my own small business. I am working from home now as a mom first, small business owner second, with my occupational therapist license
Have you had any other jobs/careers of interest?
I was a pediatric in-home occupational therapist fo 3 years prior to leaving the workforce.
Do you ever come back to Burwell?
Yes, to visit family.
What is your favorite memory of Burwell High School?
Sports and dance. I loved being active in sports and the opportunities it provided me. I also love to dance and loved socializing at events.
How did your experience at BHS impact your career/life path?
It helped me recognize my strengths and desires to pursue as a career. I wanted to help others, which is why I pursued an education in healthcare, but I also had a passion for creativity and art which helped propel me into exploring a few
different options in college.
What piece of advice would you give current BHS students?
Don’t sell yourself short, and always follow your heart. I truly believe that God has given you your passions and strengths with an intentional purpose. Don’t be
afraid to try new things or take a more unconventional route. College is always a good idea, but be open to other opportunities when they present themselves.
What are your hobbies?
My husband travels a lot as a private pilot, so when he is home, we love doing all things together. When left to myself, I love weight-lifting, makeup, shopping, and napping if that counts as a hobby;)
What was the last book you read? Did you like it?
I’m currently reading the book, “Feelings and Faith” by Brian Borgman. Yes. I love reading books that challenge me in my faith and identity in Christ. This book was excellent in learning to harness/grasp our emotions in a culture that seems to be
spiraling out of control.
What was the last movie you watched? Did you like it?
If I watch television, it is typically with my children, and it was the new Lion King. I loved it.
What is your favorite place to vacation? Why?
I absolutely LOVE the beach, preferably the ocean. Living in the midwest with children makes getting there a little more challenging, so we enjoy going to my in-laws’ lake house frequently in the summer.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
Becoming a mother by far. This has always been my ultimate dream and I feel so blessed to be a mommy to 2 amazing kiddos. My second greatest is probably having the opportunity to do makeup for NBC Dateline on 2 separate occasions.
