Terrina Copeland

UConn School of Social Work

I was born and raised in Hartford, CT, as the middle child of five. My resilient and devoted single mother raised me in an urban community that faced many challenges, from limited access to healthcare to drug addiction/abuse. My educational journey began with an associate of science degree in health science, followed by a bachelor of arts in psychology, with a concentration in addiction studies, from Southern New Hampshire University.

My commitment to serving others is deeply rooted in both my personal experiences and my work in healthcare. I’ve had the privilege of supporting patients in various roles, including medical assistant, GI technician, and personal care assistant. These roles taught me the value of patient-centered, compassionate care.

I sought involvement in UST/AS to gain hands-on experience addressing health disparities while working alongside peers who are equally committed to advocacy and community service. This program is an opportunity to strengthen my skills in culturally responsive care and interdisciplinary collaboration, both of which are essential for addressing the complex challenges in mental health and addiction services. Through this experience, I hope to help transform the healthcare setting in Connecticut by promoting mental health equity and uplifting individuals and families who are often overlooked or marginalized. I am passionate about building trust and fostering healing within communities that often feel unseen and unheard. Through UST/AS, I hope to learn how to break down barriers in mental health care and empower others.