My name is Annie Wardroup. I am from a small town nestled in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee – Parrottsville, TN. Growing up surrounded by and immersed in the mountains has given me a deep appreciation for nature, but my college decision 4 years ago led to me leave the serenity for the hustle and bustle of Nashville. I spent my time at Belmont studying biology and public health, and I am incredibly grateful for the ways my education has prepared me for this adventure and everything that will come thereafter.

A few of my favorite hobbies include hiking, embroidery, and reading. A lot of my free time throughout college was spent perusing the shelves of Parnassus, reconnecting with nature at Radnor Lake, or sitting down with my roommates to watch a new show or movie.

While at Belmont, I participated in a study abroad with the Global Honors program and volunteered with The Branch of Nashville and with Siloam Health. Volunteering at Siloam revealed to me the importance of adequate and affordable healthcare in uplifting underserved communities. This, melded with the passion for international travel that I gained through my study abroad, greatly contributed to my decision to pursue working in a healthcare capacity abroad. I am excited to undertake this journey to Nairobi, Kenya and feel incredibly blessed to have the support of my Belmont community and my family as I enter this new phase of my life.