Jessica Lewis

UConn School of Social Work

My name is Jessica Lewis. I was raised in Waterbury, Connecticut. I received a Bachelor of Arts in human development and family studies with a concentration in early childhood development and a minor in biological sciences from the University of Connecticut in May 2019. I am currently pursuing a master’s degree at the UConn School of Social Work, from which I will graduate in May 2023.

Shortly after earning my bachelor’s degree from UConn, I began work as a Child Development Specialist for a local social services agency. There, I worked with a multidisciplinary team and oversaw daily therapeutic group activities for children with significant emotional, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities. I have also worked as a Hospital Transition Coordinator, where I coordinated medical and behavioral care services for adults with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI) and chronic health conditions, and provided hospital transition care. My work experiences inspired me to continue serving underserved communities and to support and empower individuals as they navigate our complex healthcare system.

I sought involvement with the Urban Service Track/AHEC Scholars (UST/AS) Program because I believe the program will help me provide effective health care services to underserved populations. Throughout my career, I have gained insight into the interconnectedness of mental and physical health and into the importance of integrated health care. The UST/AS program will provide me with the medical and social knowledge I need to provide the holistic health care I believe patients deserve.