Advancing Mental Health: Support Nadia’s Mission in Greece

Greetings!

My name is Nadia Andrews, and I am a proud graduating senior of Alabama A&M University, with a focus in biological sciences. Born and raised in Detroit, MI, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges of mental health being overlooked in my community. These experiences, combined with my personal journey, have since fueled my passion for pursuing research in psychiatric disorders and genetics.

During my undergraduate years, I’ve actively sought out research and professional development opportunities to immerse myself in the field and gain hands-on experience that goes beyond the classroom. One of the most impactful opportunities I’ve had was participating in the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s (UNMC) Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP). This program served as an introduction to biosciences and medicine through AI simulation-based clinical experiences, panel discussions with medical professionals, and exposure to daily tasks in various specialties. Initially, I was drawn to pharmacology, but my interests have since evolved.

I was then privileged to attend Stanford University’s ADVANCE Undergraduate Institute (AUI), a three-day program focused on graduate school preparation. This experience allowed me to envision myself taking the next steps beyond my undergraduate studies and ultimately solidified my commitment to making an impact in healthcare.

Most recently, I participated in the Mayo Clinic’s Summer Research Exploration Program (SREP) in the otolaryngology department. This opportunity allowed me to gain clinical and operating room experience while working on a research project in my spare time! Beyond the technical skills, the program fostered lifelong connections with peers who are navigating this next phase of life alongside me. It also allowed me to improve my field experience by providing me with a deeper understanding of healthcare’s complexities that aren’t often acknowledged.

We’ve all heard the classic story of health professionals who have always dreamed of becoming doctors to improve lives—and while that may be true for many, the reality is more complex. There are significant barriers to care that often prevent us as professionals from truly making a difference in our patients’ lives. During my time at Mayo Clinic, I witnessed some of these challenges firsthand: financial constraints, limited access to healthcare, and a general lack of health literacy. While Mayo has protocols in place to address these issues, I realized that such resources are rare in most typical hospital settings across the U.S., outside of top-rated organizations like Mayo. Despite Mayo Clinic’s excellence in addressing many systemic barriers, I noticed an alarming gap: emotional support for patients grappling with diagnoses or major surgical procedures. Even at the nation’s top-rated hospital, mental health remains under-prioritized, underscoring the critical need for change.

These experiences showed me just how easily and quickly our loved ones can slip through the cracks of an unstable healthcare system. This realization brings me to why I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been admitted to the ATLANTIS education-abroad program for the August 2025 cohort!

Having seen both the strengths and shortcomings of the American healthcare system, I’m eager to explore how other countries approach patient care. Healthcare systems vary widely across cultures, and immersing myself in a European healthcare setting will provide a fresh perspective on prioritizing mental health and patient outcomes. This program represents an opportunity to study, shadow, and engage with healthcare practices abroad, while also experiencing the richness of local cultures.

Your support will help make this transformative experience possible. By contributing, you’re not only investing in my education and growth but also in the future of compassionate, patient-centered healthcare. Thank you for believing in my journey and helping me make a difference!

With gratitude,

Nadia Andrews