Mind over matter: A graduate's journey of advocacy in neuroscience
May 01, 2024
May 01, 2024
By overcoming her personal obstacles, she became inspired to research the brain and help others along the way.
“I think about all the time how little Hannah would be so incredibly proud of me today,” said Jack. “I accomplished more than I ever thought was possible and I couldn’t have done it without the inspiring individuals I’ve met along the way.”
Quinnipiac provided Jack an outlet to express herself through her academics and passions. The faculty and staff led her down a path to success that extends beyond her career. She has traveled the country with the Director of the Behavioral Neuroscience Program Adrienne Betz to present research at the world’s largest neuroscience conference and values this mentorship greatly.
Jack’s involvement with research was unexpected, she said. Falling in love with this aspect of academia has only helped her grow and learn more about human behavior that she will carry with her post-graduation.
As a member of the Behavioral Neuroscience Club, she was given the opportunity to develop a close-knit community with other students of the same major. She advises students considering the same area of study to connect with their fellow classmates sooner rather than later and take advantage of relationships with their professors, as well.
“They are all so fantastic and truly care about their students,” said Jack. “They will help you go far and will be a proud leader along the way.”
Aside from her studies, Jack has been involved with student organizations for her entire college career. She performed with The Legends a Cappella group for the past three years, serving as the music director for two. This group opened major opportunities for her like opening for The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall and winning multiple awards in the ICCA competition.
Advocating for hearing-impaired Bobcats in our community, Jack led the American Sign Language (ASL) Club within the e-board and has loved being able to learn and teach signs to those on campus. Her involvements also extend to QTHON, where she participated as the ASL Club chair and hosted a miracle child for the day, which she shares as one of her most memorable experiences here.
“These organizations have brought me so much happiness to act as an outlet during the stressful school semester,” said Jack.
While she will be crossing the stage and receiving her diploma soon, her journey is only beginning.
After graduation, Jack will be taking a gap year with hopes to join AmeriCorps and volunteer around the country, while taking the MCAT and applying the medical school. She feels more than prepared to take on this challenge due to the help of her advisor, as well as every single professor she has had, Jack said.
After living on the Mount Carmel Campus for four years as a resident assistant, saying goodbye is hard, but there is a bright future that lies ahead for this Bobcat.
“This truly has become my home away from home and I will forever cherish the memories I made here,” said Jack.
Want to learn what Quinnipiac is all about? We invite you to join us at an Open House, where our students, faculty and staff will introduce you to life as a Bobcat through a variety of sessions and tours.
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