Grace Drew
Position Title: Patient Healthcare Navigator
Host Site (include address): UPMC St. Margaret New Kensington Family Health Center (1072 5th Ave New Kensington, PA 15068)
Why did you join NHC Pittsburgh?
I was looking for a gap-year experience before medical school that would combine my passion for service and public health. Many of my college extracurriculars focused on equity, and I wanted an opportunity to apply that passion within a healthcare setting. I grew up in Georgia but was born in Pittsburgh, and always hoped to move back. When I came across this opportunity, I knew it would be the perfect opportunity to experience life in Pittsburgh while exploring social drivers of health in an underserved community.
What do you hope to gain or learn during your service term?
My ultimate goal is to build relationships with patients grounded in trust and understanding so I can best support them in navigating the healthcare system. Because my host site is a resident clinic, I also have the unique opportunity to learn alongside physicians in training and gain a range of valuable perspectives.
What are you most looking forward to during your service term?
I am excited to learn about the community and patient population my host site serves, and to support patients as they navigate the healthcare systems and barriers that come with it.
What is something you appreciate about serving in Pittsburgh/at your Host Site?
My host site and the surrounding community have quickly gained a special place in my heart. The community is full of wonderful people who look out for one another, even in the face of barriers and challenges. The staff at my host site have become my second family, and I feel privileged to call many of them mentors and friends. As a bonus, I am also a huge Pittsburgh sports fan and have been able to check many games off my bucket list since moving!
What are your plans after your service as an AmeriCorps member?
I plan to apply to medical school this May, with the goal of beginning Fall 2027. After my service term, I am moving back to Georgia to work as a medical assistant at a free clinic that provides both primary and specialty medical care to uninsured adults.