By Jahvena Brown
What if my first major doesn’t work out? How can I have an impact in healthcare without being a doctor?
I started at Nazareth as a biology major with the intention of entering the medical/dental field. But I ended up changing my mind several times. Eventually, I entered the Open Path program to explore what truly interested me — and I discovered technology, artificial intelligence, and society (TAS) and also became interested in business, AI, and innovation. I debated between the two because I still wanted to stay connected to healthcare.
Ultimately, I chose tech, AI, and society because I’m passionate about exploring how advancing technologies can improve patient care.
When I entered the TAS program, I had little prior experience with AI or programming. However, my first semester completely shifted my perspective. I was introduced to coding concepts through Python, learned how to create a beginner-friendly game, and developed problem-solving skills through debugging exercises. These hands-on projects not only helped me build technical knowledge but also boosted my confidence in navigating the world of technology.
One of my favorite assignments early in the program was a personal coding project where I got to design a game based on a movie. I had the opportunity to recreate a storyline. Each decision the user made would lead to a different outcome. This project was not only fun and creative, but it also pushed me to think critically. It was the moment I realized how engaging and empowering coding could be, especially when you're the one shaping the experience.
As I progressed into my second semester, the coursework continued to build on those skills. We explored algorithms, practiced more complex debugging, and analyzed real-world applications of AI, such as its use in healthcare, self-driving cars, etc.
Another major takeaway from the program is stronger critical thinking skills. Whether you're troubleshooting a broken code or analyzing the pros and cons of AI, you’re constantly being asked to solve problems, think strategically, and consider multiple perspectives. Since starting the program, I’ve noticed a real improvement in the way I approach complex questions — not just in tech, but in everyday decision-making.
After college, I would love to pursue a career that combines technology with healthcare, possibly in healthcare human resources or a tech-driven role within the healthcare industry. I’m interested in how systems and tools can improve patient care, staff efficiency, and equity in healthcare environments.
While interning as a store operations manager at Wegmans, I’ve gained hands-on experience in leadership and systems thinking, which I hope to apply in my future career. I bring a deep commitment to community engagement, inspired by my work with Nazareth’s Partners for Learning and Partners for Serving, and I’ll look for opportunities at the intersection of technology and social good deeds.
If you're considering where to study, the technology, AI, and society program at Nazareth offers something special. It’s a program where you don’t need to be an expert to start, but you’ll be challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow in both technological environments and a thoughtful understanding of the world around you.
Jahvena Brown '26 is a technology, artificial intelligence, and society major, with a sociology minor. She serves as treasurer of the Black Student Union at Nazareth. She’s passionate about using technology as a tool for community empowerment, equity, and innovation.
I started at Nazareth as a biology major with the intention of entering the medical/dental field. But I ended up changing my mind several times. Eventually, I entered the Open Path program to explore what truly interested me — and I discovered technology, artificial intelligence, and society (TAS) and also became interested in business, AI, and innovation. I debated between the two because I still wanted to stay connected to healthcare.
Ultimately, I chose tech, AI, and society because I’m passionate about exploring how advancing technologies can improve patient care.
When I entered the TAS program, I had little prior experience with AI or programming. However, my first semester completely shifted my perspective. I was introduced to coding concepts through Python, learned how to create a beginner-friendly game, and developed problem-solving skills through debugging exercises. These hands-on projects not only helped me build technical knowledge but also boosted my confidence in navigating the world of technology.
One of my favorite assignments early in the program was a personal coding project where I got to design a game based on a movie. I had the opportunity to recreate a storyline. Each decision the user made would lead to a different outcome. This project was not only fun and creative, but it also pushed me to think critically. It was the moment I realized how engaging and empowering coding could be, especially when you're the one shaping the experience.
As I progressed into my second semester, the coursework continued to build on those skills. We explored algorithms, practiced more complex debugging, and analyzed real-world applications of AI, such as its use in healthcare, self-driving cars, etc.
What sets Nazareth’s TAS program apart is its strong focus on support and growth. Professors are approachable and offer one-on-one help outside of class, which was incredibly valuable, especially in the beginning. We also have student teaching assistants available during class to help reinforce key concepts. This kind of personalized academic support has made a big difference in my learning.
Another major takeaway from the program is stronger critical thinking skills. Whether you're troubleshooting a broken code or analyzing the pros and cons of AI, you’re constantly being asked to solve problems, think strategically, and consider multiple perspectives. Since starting the program, I’ve noticed a real improvement in the way I approach complex questions — not just in tech, but in everyday decision-making.
After college, I would love to pursue a career that combines technology with healthcare, possibly in healthcare human resources or a tech-driven role within the healthcare industry. I’m interested in how systems and tools can improve patient care, staff efficiency, and equity in healthcare environments.
While interning as a store operations manager at Wegmans, I’ve gained hands-on experience in leadership and systems thinking, which I hope to apply in my future career. I bring a deep commitment to community engagement, inspired by my work with Nazareth’s Partners for Learning and Partners for Serving, and I’ll look for opportunities at the intersection of technology and social good deeds.
If you're considering where to study, the technology, AI, and society program at Nazareth offers something special. It’s a program where you don’t need to be an expert to start, but you’ll be challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow in both technological environments and a thoughtful understanding of the world around you.
Jahvena Brown '26 is a technology, artificial intelligence, and society major, with a sociology minor. She serves as treasurer of the Black Student Union at Nazareth. She’s passionate about using technology as a tool for community empowerment, equity, and innovation.
