Megan Russell

UConn School of Nursing

I was born in Hartford, Connecticut, but have lived in Simsbury, Connecticut my whole life. I went to Simsbury Public High School and currently attend the University of Connecticut for my bachelor’s degree.

While in high school, I began collecting donations to bring sandwiches to Mercy Homeless Shelter in Hartford for Superbowl Sunday. During the two years that I pioneered this program, I was able to donate over 400 sandwiches to those who needed them.

Growing up in a predominantly white, well-off community, I did not have the chance to learn about nor understand the inequities in the American healthcare system. I strongly believe that, to be an effective nurse, I must take steps to learn more about underserved communities and how nurses and other healthcare workers can better serve these populations. The Urban Service Track/AHEC Scholars (UST/AS) Program will allow me to continue my health education while learning more about communities other than my own. This will allow me to become an effective, culturally-competent nurse to those who most in need of health care.