Chinenye Anyanwu

UConn School of Pharmacy

I am an African-American, or more specifically, a Nigerian-American. My six siblings and I are U.S. citizens, but our parents were born and raised in Nigeria, where most of my relatives still live. My background is diverse and so too is Parkchester, the neighborhood where I grew up. Located in the Bronx, NY, Parkchester is home to various ethnic groups: Hispanics, Indians, Africans, Asians, and people from the Caribbean area are among its residents. These same demographics made up the student body of my elementary and high schools. The transition to UConn in the fall of 2003 was difficult. The increased course load, coupled with adjustment to a rural environment and small minority community made me consider a transfer elsewhere. I changed my mind once I was introduced to the Student National Pharmaceutical Association; an association centered on community service and underserved populations. The Association also is dedicated to the recruitment and retention of minority students in healthcare professions. I was drawn to this organization for its family environment and ability to open doors for me. Another relevant factor for me was the UST. It is one of the few Connecticut programs that recognizes the importance of serving ALL people, including those who are underrepresented and disadvantaged, while tackling the issue of improved education for the healthcare professionals who will provide that service.