Nursing Legacy: Anna and Sarah Russell Embark on Medical Careers Together at UAB School of Nursing
For sisters Anna and Sarah Russell, the journey into nursing is not merely a career choice; it is a continuation of a family legacy deeply rooted in healthcare. Both are currently pursuing their nursing education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing. Anna is in her third semester of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, while Sarah is a pre-nursing student preparing to enter the program.
The sisters attribute their inspiration to the profession to their mother, a seasoned nurse. “My mom has always been my biggest inspiration,” Anna noted. “Her caring nature made me want to care for others as well. Hearing stories of how our family members in healthcare make a difference in people’s lives motivated both Sarah and me to follow this path.”
When considering potential nursing schools, both siblings expressed a clear preference for UAB. Their decision is partly influenced by family ties, as several relatives, including their brother David, a recent Summa Cum Laude graduate, and John, who is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, have also attended UAB. “Having family members who have excelled at UAB eased my transition from high school to college,” Sarah explained. “The UAB School of Nursing is recognized as one of the top nursing schools in the nation, providing an unparalleled opportunity to collaborate closely with an outstanding hospital.”
Anna’s experience over her three semesters has been overwhelmingly positive. “I love it here; I’ve formed lasting friendships and truly enjoy my classes. The professors are exceptional, and their mentorship instills confidence in my nursing skills,” she shared.
Sarah’s proactive involvement in clinical experience comes through her participation in a structured program at UAB Hospital, where she works as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the Head, Neck, Plastics, and Urology Unit. Following a rotation in Guest Services as a Patient Transporter and then in Food & Nutrition Services, Sarah feels the hands-on experience has significantly bolstered her clinical skills. “The support I receive from my colleagues has been invaluable. It has not only enhanced my comfort but also my confidence in a patient care environment,” she stated.
The Russell family has a notable backstory; they spent part of their childhood in the Philippines, where their father worked in private equity and the family was involved in community services. This experience was life-altering when their younger brother suffered a life-threatening accident. Sarah credits the nurses who cared for her brother during that tumultuous time with inspiring her commitment to making a positive impact in patients’ lives. “These nurses were a source of calm in the storm, and that deeply influenced my ambition to pursue nursing. My goal is to make a significant difference in each patient’s life, even in small ways,” she emphasized.
The bond between Anna and Sarah extends into their academic and professional pursuits as well. Anna steps into her first clinical rotation at UAB, facilitated by Sarah’s guidance in adapting to the hospital environment. Anna admires Sarah’s ability to connect with patients, saying, “Sarah’s communication skills stand out; she establishes rapport effortlessly, which has positively influenced my interactions with patients.”
The Russell sisters are excited about their overlapping academic schedule as Sarah prepares to join the BSN program in August. “Growing up together through various stages of life has been a wonderful gift,” reflected Sarah. “Having Anna by my side for this next chapter in our nursing journey is truly special.”
This shared commitment to healthcare not only signifies a personal dream for the Russell sisters but also underscores the importance of family legacy in shaping future generations of nurses at UAB. Their story exemplifies the confluence of inspiration, familial bonds, and professional ambition, further elevating the significance of education and mentorship in the nursing field.
