Jack Callahan

First-generation college student Jack Callahan knew that the commitment and cost of higher education was a big responsibility. When he was accepted to UMass Lowell, it was the obvious choice.

“As someone with other bills and no college fund, I decided that price was a major factor in my college decision,” says Callahan, a public health major and Honors College student from North Attleboro, Massachusetts.

Callahan couldn’t be happier with his choice. He’s making the most of a campus, education and city he’s come to love.

“I have always been passionate about helping people,” he says. “My main goal in life is to improve the lives of those around me, which is why I chose to major in public health.” 

As a sophomore, Callahan received a $4,000 Immersive Scholarship to conduct research for the university’s Center for Population Health to help Lowell become an “age-friendly community.”

Callahan has found that Lowell’s atmosphere, architecture and rich history speak to him. 

“The city has so much to offer and has a charm about it that makes you want to stay here for the long run,” he says. “I see tons of opportunities in Lowell for public health jobs because of so many great community health initiatives – all aimed at solving health disparities in the city.”

Callahan already has his sights set on his future career, preferably in the Lowell area. With the ongoing drug crisis, he’s interested in becoming a harm reduction specialist in substance abuse.

“UMass Lowell and the city of Lowell both have a strong sense of community,” he says. “If I get the chance to work for a city health department, I’m optimistic that with the right services and policies, we can have a dramatic, positive impact on the health of residents.”