Recently, Shawnet Jones became the first graduate of the John and Valerie Rowe Health Scholars Program at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. She entered the program in 2005 as an undergraduate. The program, funded by the Aetna Foundation, is aimed at increasing the number of students from underrepresented groups who pursue careers in the healthcare field. The program provides tutoring, mentoring, and financial help for students to complete their bachelor’s degree and be prepared for graduate studies in healthcare.
During their undergraduate years, Rowe scholars attend professional development seminars and workshops and interact with health care professionals. They participate in summer programs, workshop, and research projects.
After graduation from the University of Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in physiology and neurobiology, Jones participated in a summer program to prepare her for the rigors of medical school.
