Francesca Russo '23

Francesca Russo in her whitecoat in front of a white wall

Hello, my name is Francesca Russo. I graduated from Ursuline College in May of 2019 with a BA in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. At Ursuline, I was the chemistry lab assistant for three years and anatomy and physiology tutor for freshman nursing students. While there, I also obtained my phlebotomy and STNA certification. I have previously worked as a dental hygienist and a fundraiser, but it was my time volunteering for a medical brigade in Korah, Ethiopia that inspired me to pursue my PA degree. I am a proud mother of four sons, have two rescue dogs, a rescue cat, and a tropical fish aquarium. I enjoy the outdoors, going to concerts, hiking, swimming, cross country skiing, and traveling. I am an avid cook, a certified SCUBA diver, and a first-degree blackbelt in Tae Kwon Do. When time permits, I enjoy entertaining and spending quality time with my family, friends, and my partner Jeff.

Preferred Pronouns?  she/her/hers

Where would you say you are from?  Chagrin Falls, Ohio

Where did you receive your Bachelor's degree?  Ursuline College​​​​​​​

What degree(s) have you completed thus far?  Bachelor's degree, Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene​​​​​​​

If you completed a master's or professional degree, which degree did you complete, and from what university?  Cuyahoga Community College​​​​​​​

How did you hear about CWRU's PA program?  From a friend.
 
Why did you choose the PA program?  It's reputation, diversity, outreach, and location.​​​​​​​

What are you looking forward to the most in the PA program?  Applying the skills and knowledge I am learning to help others, particularly the underserved.

What advice would you give future PA students as they begin to search for programs?  Find a school whose mission statement resonates within you and how you want to practice.