“PULSE is making me think more about living on a lower budget and distinguishing what you need to live. It’s also making me more aware of how I interact with people and is teaching me to connect with them in more meaningful ways.” – Jenna Hanner
Jenna Hanner is no stranger to Pittsburgh, although she grew up in Marietta, OH, she moved here four years ago to study Bioengineering at the University of Pittsburgh. Through her studies, Jenna designed a sustainable woven knee brace to address unique challenges in East African countries. She was also the president of the University of Pittsburgh Global Brigades, through which she volunteered with sustainable development programs in Honduras. When she is not advocating for access to healthcare, you might find Jenna playing soccer or reading a good book. She is serving at 3E Now.
Casy Stelitano: Tell me something you are learning about yourself through PULSE.
Jenna Hanner: I’m learning a lot about my strengths and weaknesses through the seminars and just through interactions with other PULSErs. PULSE is great for personal development. I am learning that I enjoy being in a community and that there is always someone around to talk to.
Casy: Describe a typical day at your nonprofit partnership
Jenna: Everyday is really different because I do a little bit of everything. Sometimes I’m in schools taking to students about dating violence. Sometimes I’m in the women’s shelter taking to moms and children. I also do a lot of administrative tasks like social media, email, networking, and meeting with out partners.
Casy: What do you love about Pittsburgh?
Jenna: Pittsburgh has a real community feel to it. I love how it is broken up into communities that have their own quirks and that people strongly identify with them. I have idolized Pittsburgh since I was a kid because my dad loves Pittsburgh and sports. I remember driving through the Fort Pitt Tunnel on my way to a Pirates game at 5 years old and seeing the skyline and just thinking “whoa”.
Casy: How has PULSE inspired you to live/think/act differently?
Jenna: PULSE is making me think more about living on a lower budget and distinguishing what you need to live. We aren’t struggling but we are also trying to not be excessive. It’s also making me more aware of how I interact with people and is teaching me to connect with them in more meaningful ways.
Casy: What is your favorite “family meal”?
Jenna: Sarah’s quiche! Its so delicious and you can eat it for any meal. It’s great any time of day.
Story by PULSE Participant Casy Stelitano.
Read more Participant Stories from Fellows about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: