Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Megan Shanahan

Weston

Summary

Motivated pre-med student at the University of Richmond with a strong foundation in biology and a passion for neurology. Experienced in neuroscience research with hands-on skills in molecular biology and data analysis. Demonstrates a commitment to both scientific exploration and patient care through clinical volunteering, healthcare internships, and science education outreach. Founder of a neuroscience and psychology club promoting mental health awareness, with strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.

Overview

2
2
years of professional experience

Work History

Undergraduate Neuroscience Researcher

University of Richmond
Richmond
08.2024 - Current
  • Conducted independent research on gut-brain axis in Long-Evans rats under Dr. Jory Brinkerhoff.
  • Performed sterile dissections to extract intestinal contents for bacterial analysis.
  • Utilized PCR, 16S rRNA sequencing, and gel electrophoresis for bacterial profiling.
  • Investigated bacterial changes related to enrichment and their neurological impacts.

Healthcare Specialist Intern

HealthPlanOne
Trumbull
06.2024 - 08.2025
  • Shadowed licensed Medicare agents to understand healthcare access and insurance systems.
  • Observed client support strategies and deepened understanding of healthcare equity and delivery.
  • Managed medication orders for patients, including obtaining prior authorizations from insurance companies.

Science Educator Assistant

Weston Intermediate School
Weston
05.2023 - 06.2023
  • Assisted 5th-grade students in understanding foundational math and science concepts, with an emphasis on sensory processing and scientific observation.
  • Supported classroom instruction through hands-on activities and one-on-one tutoring.
  • Planned and updated curricula and lesson plans to continuously improve subject coverage.

Education

High School Diploma -

Weston High School
Weston
05-2023

Bachelor of Arts - Health Studies

University of Richmond
Richmond

Skills

  • Laboratory: RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA extraction, bacterial profiling
  • Software: Microsoft Excel, SPSS
  • Data gathering and organization
  • Healthcare management
  • Quality improvement
  • Public health awareness

Accomplishments

  • Deans List (Fall 2023-Present)- GPA: 3.88
  • TriBeta Biology Honor Society
  • Mortar Board Honor Society
  • Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society
  • URMD Pre-Medical Fraternity

Affiliations

President & Founder — Gray Matters Club (Neuroscience & Psychology)
University of Richmond
Fall 2024 – Present

  • Created a student-led space for exploring mental health and brain science topics.
  • Organize guest speakers, campus events, and local volunteer efforts.
  • Coordinate with faculty and student government to implement initiatives.

Hospital Volunteer — Dementia Support Program
Stamford Hospital, Stamford CT
Summer 2024

  • Provide social and emotional support to patients with dementia through guided activities and interpersonal engagement.
  • Collaborate with nursing staff to ensure safe and compassionate patient care.

Community Involvement Volunteer— Conversations to Remember (Remote)

November 2023 — Present

  • Engage in conversations with senior citizens online, stimulating psychological health and using therapeutic communication techniques to foster meaningful connections and supports cognitive health.

Languages

Italian
Professional
Spanish
Limited

Timeline

Undergraduate Neuroscience Researcher

University of Richmond
08.2024 - Current

Healthcare Specialist Intern

HealthPlanOne
06.2024 - 08.2025

Science Educator Assistant

Weston Intermediate School
05.2023 - 06.2023

High School Diploma -

Weston High School

Bachelor of Arts - Health Studies

University of Richmond
Megan Shanahan